RadiciSpandex Corporation, the US subsidiary of Italy-based The Radici Group, recently held a reception to unveil the top three winning designs from its annual “Stretch to the Future” design competition, held in partnership with The Fashion School of Kent State University.

Designer Carmen Marc Valvo, who served as the designer judge for the competition attended the event, which was held at the Italian Trade Commission in Manhattan.

The Grand Prize and Swimwear award was given to Kristy Chen for her deep-plunge, black halter swimsuit with twisted piecing at the front and a chiffon tunic cover-up. The First Prize and Eveningwear winner was Teresa Calabrese for her two-piece sleeveless top with a dome-shaped neckline and skirt, both trimmed in black tulle. She used white mouldable jersey and cotton-lined spacer fabrics, spray-painted with a subway graffiti-inspired pattern. 

Stephanie Green was the Second Prize and Sportswear winner with a three-piece garment, consisting of a jumper-style dress constructed in four different patterned fabrics combined in layered panels, worn over a black top and leggings with cropped sleeves in black stretch fabrics. 

Winners were selected from 23 students who competed with garments designed in stretch fabrics donated by Darlington Fabrics, McMurray Fabrics, Milliken & Company, Sextet Fabrics, Symphony Fabrics and VF Intimates.