A group of young fashion designers will take a sneak peak at GM's concept cars and new production vehicles at the upcoming 2007 Chicago Auto Show as General Motors and the International Academy of Design and Technology (IADT) kick off their fifth year as partners in the annual GM Student Design Competition.
Themed "Runway to Future Design and Technology," more than 50 IADT fashion design students will visit the GM exhibit on Feb. 9, during the first public day of the Chicago Auto Show. As they walk the GM exhibit, they will begin sketching garment designs inspired by five GM featured vehicles.
The five featured GM vehicles for 2007 include:
- Chevrolet Volt concept - GM's electric-driven advanced technology vehicle
- Chevrolet Camaro convertible concept - a sport coupe with dramatic design and exciting performance
- 2008 Cadillac CTS - a luxurious and elegant sedan with the charisma of a sport car
- 2008 Buick Enclave - Buick's first luxury crossover SUV with athletic spirit, romantic forms and premium interior
- 2007 Saturn Aura Green Line Hybrid - voted North American Car of the Year with a demonstration of Saturn's environmental commitment
After taking away their first impressions of the vehicles from the auto show, the students will continue to sketch and produce the garments during the next two months. Five winning designs will be selected and showcased at Imagine 2007, an annual fashion show produced by IADT and sponsored by GM. The fashion show will take place on May 17 at Chicago's Union Station. Each student winner will receive a $500 cash award from GM.
"Automotive design and fashion inspire and influence each other," said Robert Boniface, GM director of advanced design, who led the design team of the Chevrolet Volt concept car. "Collaboration between GM and IADT, a school with a strong heritage in fashion, highlights opportunities to expand design vision and fresh ideas."
"We are thrilled to continue our partnership with GM for the fifth consecutive year," said Kathy Embry, dean, School of Design Studies at IADT. "We can see a lot of energy in the emotionally compelling designs of all new GM vehicles. The GM Student Design Competition will provide a great opportunity to showcase the talent of future Chicago designers."
"General Motors' exclusive design opportunity is a thrilling chance for IADT students," said Amber Lindlom, senior fashion design student at IADT. "The challenge to draw inspiration from GM's innovative vehicles and translate them into one-of-a-kind fashion design solutions is a fantastic experience for aspiring fashion designers".