Orlando (July 5, 2012) – The International Academy of Design & Technology-Orlando (IADT-Orlando) will present its 6^th annual IMAGINE fashion show on Saturday, August 4th 2012, at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, 4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, Florida 32837. The V.I.P. event starts at 6:00 p.m. and doors open at 6:30 p.m. The fashion presentation starts at 7:30 p.m.

The runway event will feature garments designed and constructed by students receiving a Bachelor of Fine Art in Fashion Design and Merchandising. This year’s designs are a celebration of futuristic Steampunk fashions for the Fall/Winter 2012/13 season. Steampunk infuses the elegance of the Victorian era with a futuristic interpretation displayed in clothing designed for day, cocktail and evening wear. Gracing the runway will be professional models from Benz Modeling agency donning hair-styles and make-up from the Aveda Institute Orlando. The Aveda Institute plans to create Victorian inspired hair-styles with a splash of punk to accent the avant-garde quality of the garments.

In addition to creating garments for the event, students will also compete in a designer challenge judged by guest industry professionals. The 3 week long competition requires students to test their creativity, while incorporating the theme of the event.

IMAGINE 2012 has partnered with the charity Runway To Hope, which provides direct support to the children and families in the Central Florida community who have been impacted by pediatric cancer. 

This year’s designer challenge consists of students working in groups to create Steampunk inspired children’s clothing that will be modeled by the children who are currently battling or have overcome their cancer.  For additional information visit their website at www.runwaytohope.org.

Seeing the finished garments on children who understand first-hand the impact cancer has on their young lives will be a meaningful end to a fashionable night.

At the conclusion of the show student awards will be presented to participating designers, including Best Interpretation of Theme, IADT Orlando One to Watch, and Most Innovative Design.