A group of Park University Interior Design students participated in the fashion show “Color + Couture” hosted by the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), a expert organization for interior designers.

As part of the rules for the show, took part groups established product samples from suppliers to make costumes for the competition. Park students Michelle Batliner and Mary Carpenter paired up with the Illinois-based Brentano Fabrics. They worked with limited Brentano representative Connie Huffaker who is also a 1996 Park graduate.

Batliner and Carpenter shaped a costume from upholstery fabric samples called “Geisha Galactica.” Following the show, they modeled their making for Brentano executives at the recent NeoCon World Trade Fair in Chicago on June 12-14.

“It shows the creativity of our students,” said Kay Boehr, director of interior design. “They can design an interior space or a piece of clothing. They can take a product that is mostly for upholstery and make something to wear. It’s fun and creative.”