On June 9, 2012, eight fashion design students gathered at Beachwood Place for the Form to Fashion competition. Each student presented her design to a panel of three judges: Lorelei Shellist, author and former runway model, Conor O'Malley, Nordstrom stylist, and Vanni Wang, fashion designer and owner of Lucio Vanni, LLC.
Two prizes were awarded: one to the design with the most votes from Beachwood Place shoppers and online voters, and one to the judges' top pick.
The popular vote winner was Lia Sheakoski, first year student at Virginia Marti College of Art and Design. Her colorful two-piece design was inspired by a beach vacation.
The judges' winner was Deanna First, who had just graduated from The Fashion School at Kent State University. She found inspiration for her long red dress in roses. The dress will be worn by Shellist at the upcoming La Jolla Fashion Film Festival.
Following the awards presentation, some of the designers and guests gathered at Porsche of Beachwood for the Cleveland's Young Rising Star reception, presented by FGI Cleveland. Guests were treated to a wine tasting by Muddy Paw, music by Taylor Caldwell, and a book signing by Shellist.
