The exhibition was penciled into my planner 4 months in advance. Last year, I learned that the Carnegie Museum of Art (CMOA) was planning to display a feature on Iris van Herpen and how she was transforming fashion one couture dress at a time. Iris is a Dutch designer that explores the meeting between fashion and technology. To bring her practice and ideology to life and further into Pittsburgh, local artists will showcase wearable works of art of their own featuring her staple characteristics (innovative technology, unique processes, and unconventional materials) on the runway.
Selected by a CMOA committee from an open call based on their abilities to visualize the ideals and aesthetics of design inspired by Iris, the 10 chosen artists will each produce two looks for the runway. I had the opportunity to sit down with one of the participating designers and get a sneak peek into her designs planned for the big day! Read on to meet, Stephanie Moye, a multi-talented designer that specializes in exquisite hair design and with a passion for fashion.
Your background is fascinating! Creativity flows throughout your life. How did you get started in fashion design?
I started sewing Barbie doll clothes at six years of age, self-taught. I started creating clothes and wearing them at twelve years of age. I decided in the 12th grade to take a sewing class and my teacher asked me to assist her by teaching my fellow classmates. Some of my classmates who graduated before me requested bridal gowns and prom gowns. This was the beginning for me.
What advice do have for aspiring designers?
I believe it’s essential for aspiring designers is to obtain an education in Fashion Design. I also believe it’s important for an aspiring designer to seek a mentor in their field.
I loved seeing your upcoming dress, “Armor” and can’t wait to see “Jigsaw”! What’s your favorite part of each?
My favorite is the shoulder portion of the “Armor Dress” and the shapes within my “Jigsaw Dress.” [Coming soon to the Materials World Runway show!] I have always been intrigued with armor since childhood and movies like “Troy” are part of my inspiration. The Jigsaw Dress shapes are unique and interesting to view opposed to traditional shapes like squares, circles etc.
I can’t wait to see your designs at the Material Worlds Fashion Show! How did you incorporate CMOA’s exhibition into your designs?
I was inspired by the concept of extended shoulders from of the designs at CMOA, especially for the “Armor Dress”, which is a design I have wanted to do for a while. Also, I was inspired by three dimensional designs. This concept was utilized in both designs I created.
Want to learn more or see Stephanie’s designs in action? Follow Stephanie here and the CMOA here on Instagram. RSVP to the event here and join us at the Ace Hotel next Friday!