Winners of First National Fashion Scholarship to Graduate From The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale

A Passion for Fashion is their inspiration for fall trends

The two winners of the first Passion for Fashion national scholarship competition held in 2006, are expected to graduate from The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale on Thursday, June 18, 2009. Now they are ready for the fashion world and are already expressing their comments on fall fashion trends for incoming college students and sharing their new found knowledge with the world.

South Florida born and raised Elana Bloom, of Boca Raton and graduate of Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. School of the Arts in West Palm Beach, is poised to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Fashion Design.

Bloom's take on whether college students care about their clothes is straightforward. "I do think college students still think about fashion when they dress for class. Although, I do not think fashion is what is determined in their mind when they are shopping for their class attire. Comfort, convenience and chic are ideal for a college student whose long days schelpping books, laptops, and other college necessities. Let's face it, can a girl walk up three flights of stairs in four-inch platforms and make it without breaking a sweat or falling? Today, less is more and being chic is not being bedazzled or wearing ultra tight clothing, it is about accessorizing your bamboo cotton sweat outfit. Attraction is all in the hair, makeup and the accessories. Who has time to put together a three piece outfit at 6am for an 8am class? Throw on a comfy cute sweat suit (by Pink Lotus or a cotton maxi dress (by Lani), Havianas sandals, beaded bracelets, sunnies and a quick blow dry to the hair and you're ready to go."

Karlee Smith, originally from California, and a graduate of South Forsyth High School, in Cumming, Georga, who will be walking the commencement stage to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Fashion Merchandising says, "College students think about finding themselves. In essence, they create their own trends, at least most do who care to be unique! Even if they are on a budget, college students can find affordable clothes and accessories at places like Forever 21, Zara, and Express."

Bloom concurs with Smith adding Nordstrom's B.P section and Target to the list. "Wide headbands or scarves used as headbands, chunky beads and rings, and fun play jewelry embellish any outfit. I also think everyone should accessories with a nice manicure and pedicure - this always gives a mini makeover."

For the back to school fall college student Bloom forecasts, "Feathers, furs (can do synthetics), high platform heels to flat Bohemian boots. Militant style (pea coats, collars) stockings are a key piece (opaque tights) they allow you to wear the micro minis even on a chilly day. Last, but not least, plaid, I am a diehard fan myself but everyone could add some tartan into their lives and instantly prep up any outfit."

Both Bloom and Smith were the first two high school teens to earn full scholarships from the then called Teen Fashion Innovators Search*competition in 2006.  They decided that Fort Lauderdale was the shared destination to pursue their design and merchandising goals.

Three years later, they seem wise beyond their years. "I ultimately want to share my love for garments with everyone and help women get dressed for every occasion of her life, says Bloom. Smith's dream is to, "inspire the future of fashion to be concerned with helping people understand the importance and personal value clothes have on their personality."

"Both Karlee and Elana came to the school with fantastic skills and the energy to succeed," says The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale Fashion Design Chair Andre West. "After three years of hard work they are graduating with amazing portfolios.  They took advantage of all the opportunities the college provides such as volunteering and leading charitable events, getting internships and working in the industry. They will be a loss for the department because they have been mentors for other students.  I am sure in the future they will go onto bigger and greater things and I wish them great success."

After their June graduation, both ladies are planning a short rest and then will dive into pursuing employment. Smith's goal is to work for a company that will help further her industry expertise.  Bloom is hoping to be employed by a fashion magazine.

"The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale provided factual knowledge and experienced educators to mold and grow my professional status," says Smith who took advantage of freelance jobs, internships, and volunteering throughout her three-year educational experience. "The most exciting test was learning and understanding how to challenge myself personally, professionally, and educationally. With the balance of educational travel, flexible schedules, and access to being involved in the fashion industry, The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale definitely provided guidance to broaden my perspective to endless possibilities."

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*Originally called Teen Fashion Innovators Search, thecompetition's name was later changed to Passion for Fashion. The winners still get a trip to New York's Fashion Week and now a "meet and greet" at Seventeen magazine's offices, along with a lunch with a Seventeen magazine Style Pro.