Re-Tulled

Art of Life — Produced by Karen Smyles

Traditionally the first fashion show of the new school year, design students at Moore College of Art and Design have to devise, design and showcase a garment based on the theme in just one month’s time. The project is called Jump/Start.

As a tribute to the Pennsylvania Ballet’s 50th Anniversary, Moore fashion design junior and senior students were tasked with using tulle in a contemporary design with a reference to its use in ballet. Tulle has been used for ballet costumes over the years as it has the ability to flow with the music and movement of the dancer’s bodies.

The Pennsylvania Ballet had originally wanted the students to design traditional tutus, however Moore decided to go in a more conceptual and creative direction. In the end, we saw pieces that were far from what most of us will ever see at the ballet.

Art of Life had the opportunity to go behind the scenes in the design studios and see the creative process right from the beginning. Then we returned to see all of the designs work their way down the runway in front of a packed audience, and they were fantastic!

Learn more about Moore College of Art and the making of Jump/Start!

Produced by Karen Smyles, edited by Lisa Levonian