With her second fall collection debuting next week, Frances Lewis took some time to talk about what inspired her new collection, and what we can expect from the show. –Miranda McDonald
What inspired this collection?
This fall collection is inspired by the actual season, and has a lot of fall colors.There’s also a big focus on time. That could be the time in history that I pulled my inspiration from when creating the pieces, or even where I am at this point in my life. I want to enjoy where I am, appreciate where I’ve been, and push ahead to where I am going.
What makes this collection different from your first one?
My first collection was a bit of a catch-all, because I wanted to show my audience everything that I could do. This year, there is cohesion in what I have created. The colors and shapes all tell a story, and I really focused on pushing myself when it came to design and construction technique.
What can we expect at the fashion show?
An Ann DeEvelyn collection isn’t complete without a plunging neckline or an open back. Even though it’s fall, we still make sure to show a little skin on the runway. You’ll also see some of our classic shapes and hemlines like the knee length pencil skirt, or the floor length full skirt.
How did you push yourself with this collection?
I want to give my audience something new, which can be both exciting and daunting. I also always want to push myself with each new project by creating new designs and playing with new shapes.
What charity will the even be benefiting?
This year we are benefiting the Cabbage Patch Settlement House. We just did a fashion camp with them this summer, and we will be highlighting the young women at the establishment. We’ll also have a slideshow showcasing some of the programs, and we’ll even have one very special little girl come and talk about her experience with the Cabbage Patch at the show.
What has been the most challenging part of creating this collection?
You never know how people are going to receive your work. Will they like it, will they be bored, or will it be enough? It’s such a challenge, but I’ve definitely stayed focused.
Frances Lewis will be debut her second collection on October 16 at the Mellwood Arts Center. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the fashion show starting at 8 p.m. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/AnnDeEvelyn.