>>Back to student profiles

Six students at Moore College of Art & Design in Philadelphia are competing in Wearables' new Fashion Faceoff contest. Juniors in Moore's fashion program have spent the year desigining and constructing athleisure looks, and we added on to their assignment, asking them to create an original embellishment design for a blank garment from Vantage Apparel. Check back regularly to learn more about Kimberly and her work.

Name: Kimberly McLinden
Age: 20
Hometown: Langhorne, PA

Q. Who are your design inspirations?

A. I am mostly inspired by and interested in bridal design, so much of my inspiration comes from Pnina Tornai, Lazaro, George Elsissa and Berta. Their aesthetics are unique, producing statement gowns that are incredibly detail orientated.

Q. How would you describe your design aesthetic?

A. Whimsical, graceful, dainty and to a certain degree, sensually suggestive. I am very observant to detail and like to use fabrics with texture, like lace and beaded fabrics, or delicate, lightweight fabrics like organza and chiffon. I do not design with much color, so I use texture and embellishments to make my designs noticeable and stand out.

Q. Where do you see yourself in five years?

A. I would like to be a design assistant or head designer for a widely known bridal designer, or part of a production team that constructs bridal gowns or couture evening wear in New York.

UPDATES:

• Check out Kimberly McLinden's lookbook to see her athleisure designs.
• Watch this video to find out why Kimberly decided to enter the contest.
• Check out this slideshow to see the evolution Kimberly's Vantage look.
• Watch this video to find out what Kimberly learned from working with Vantage.
• Find out what the judges had to say about Kimberly's athleisure mini-collection.
• See Fashion Faceoff contestants' looks walk the runway.

Fan-Favorite Poll

The winner has already been selected by a panel of experts, but we want to know who you think won the Fashion Faceoff! Vote now.