Michelle became interested in fashion design in her early age. She took her first sewing class when she was in fourth grade. After one sewing lesson, she designed her first outfit by using newspaper as pattern papers. And she never stopped designing. After graduating with a bachelor's Degree in Fashion Design from International Academy of Technology and Designs in 1999, she spent six months travelling to Asia and searching for fabrics and yarns for her first collection. Michelle launched her line under her name in Fall 2000. Michelle's devotion to deconstruction and details has made her one of Chicago's fastest growing designers. In 2000 she had won the Style Maker and Rule Breaker Award by Fashion Group International; in 2001 she won the Marshal Field's Distinction Award and sold her line to department store chain. Now, Michelle sells to over 60 stores across the US, Canada, and Japan.
Michelle will be cheering on young designers at the International Academy of Design & Technology will host its annual student fashion show. IMAGINE 2010 is a student-produced exhibition showcasing the design talent and production of IADT's students. Featuring over 100 original student designs, Miss Illinois USA 2010 Ashley Bradarich will lend a hand on the runway and Shiny Toy Guns will rock out for a night of fashion, fun and inspiration.
"Working on this show for many years, including as a student, has allowed me to really see it evolve and grow over time," says Travis Reed, Creative Marketing Manager for IADT. "Our students work hard at creating pieces that people would buy and wear proudly. I'm so pleased with what the students and faculty have accomplished and expect to wow the audience more than ever before!"
IMAGINE 2010 is created, produced and performed by the students and faculty of IADT Chicago. Each program at IADT plays an intricate role in bringing IMAGINE 2010 to life including Interior Design, Advertising & Design, Multi-Media Production & Design, Merchandising Management and Fashion Design. From developing a creative logo, assembling sensational stage designs, casting professional models from Ford and Factor, and designing unique garments, all of these programs come together as a team. Over 100 original student designs, chosen by a panel of local fashion insiders and industry experts, will grace the runway featuring categories such as urban denim, faux fur, ready–to–wear, Asian inspired, cocktail, evening and faux fur.
IMAGINE 2010 will also feature finalists from its exciting design competition "Muse" in collaboration with Factor Women. In January, student designers were invited to submit inspiration for their muse by creating muse boards including colors, garment designs, etc. The top three winners will each receive a monetary scholarship and professional photo shoot in the May issue of Moda FG magazine.
For tickets, call (312) 980-9295, email iadtimagine@iadtchicago.com or purchasing online at www.iadtchicago.bkstr.com. Prices are $40 for general admission and $10 for current Academy students/faculty. A percentage of proceeds from ticket sales will go to the Ronald McDonald House charity. For additional information, visit www.iadtchicagoimagine.com.
About the International Academy of Design and Technology
The International Academy of Design and Technology, founded in the 1970s with a single location, is a vibrant and growing college committed to providing a design education that delivers today's technology into the classroom, and tomorrow's creative professionals into the workforce. Today, the Academy has ten locations and continues to grow. The Academy is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) to award associate, bachelors, and master's degrees. The ACICS is listed as a nationally recognized accrediting agency by the United States Department of Education and is also recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
The Academy's Chicago location, established in 1978, is situated in the heart of Chicago's Loop historic State street, offers design and technology courses through its physical campus as well as through a virtual channel, the Academy Online—the flexible way to earn a degree without the limitations of geography. The Academy focuses on hands-on experience to ensure students have the opportunity to gain understanding and confidence in their field. The experienced professional staff stimulates student's creativity yet balance the education with real world knowledge. The Academy combines natural talent with industry skills that can lead to opportunities in today's in-demand careers.
A possible introduction could be: Michelle's designs start at $79 and normally don't exceed $500- with production in Chicago, Michelle's pieces are quality made and will definitely make a statement. For example the first look from Michelle is a beautiful silk floor length gown priced at only $410. Michelle will nip and tuck any of her designs to fit her customers at their desire, making shopping at her store a real treat.
FASHIONS BY MICHELLE TAN
A backless Navy Blue Silk floor length gown paired with sea foam green handmade silk wrap/top
The Multi-Dress that can be worn multiple ways for different looks, Navy Silk Charmeuse and Black Crepe Chiffon lining
The Must-Have little black dress of 2010- Michelle's little black dress has a full coverage front and sexy plunging ruffled back
This look can be worn day or night, Black and White pinstripe city shorts paired with black and white striped silk charmeuse top
Sheer silk netting top embellished with raw lace and plaid cotton cut-outs, worn with Michelle's ginger plaid square cut-out skirt