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Operation Dream Dress 2009
Our five finalists and their dresses are as different as can be, but each represents its designer’s interpretation of the theme “visionary romance.” From left, student Jennifer Allen (Seattle) next to her ethereal A-line, one-shouldered, floral-inspired gown; student Haley Badenhop (Hamler, OH) with her bold, innovative design including a gold chain corset, detachable train, and dropped-waist skirt; our winning Operation Dream Dress goddess sheath with satin banding at the waistline, front and center next to designer Amy Wong Micucci (Beverly Hills); the hand-sewn, hand-beaded, draped bias-cut creation flown in from France, where student Claire Thompson was studying when she entered the contest (Cincinnati); and the Hollywood-worthy silver mermaid dress with raw-edged chiffon swatches submitted by retail and corporate employee turned fashion contestant Johnny Corona (San Francisco).
2009 WINNER - Amy Wong Micucci
Amy Wong Micucci’s resume in the fashion industry has included the titles of merchandiser, buyer, and manager; however, Amy chose to follow a more creative path when she left her job and created her own line of bridesmaids’ dresses, Swoon. Prior to our contest, the new designer had never designed a wedding dress. Accepting our challenge, she had as her goal to create something “unique, sophisticated, and feminine without being overly ‘girly.’” Her creation appealed to brides-to-be across the nation with its wearability and simplicity. Now, brides can purchase the winning dress at David’s Bridal stores across the country at a price point of $550 (available in sizes 0 to 16).
2009 SEMIFINALISTS
