UIW Presents 'Over The Roof Top,' Featuring 'Fantasy Creations' and the Veronica Prida Collection.

SAN ANTONIO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 28, 1998--Ever thought of wearing a dress made of paper clips and notebook paper?

Well, at the University of the Incarnate Word, fashion design students were presented with the challenge of creating designs using such unexpected and/or contradictory materials. The students present their creations in "Over the Roof Top" on Thursday, Nov. 5, at the Agnese Terrace Residence at 7:45 p.m., with a reception at 7 p.m.

With the cue from featured designer Veronica Prida, the design students take the idea of reinventing a few steps and sometimes a few jumps further, by using everyday elements to create their designs. Mesh, shower scrubs, window screening, moss and rose petals, gum drops, photographic film, corn husks and more have results that span from the industrial to the sublime. Students will receive cash prizes for best design.

"The 'Fantasy Creations' project is meant to challenge the student designers and provoke and amuse their audience," said Veronica Prida, graduate of UIW's fashion design program and owner of Prida on Broadway. "Going back to the unconventional materials allows the students a fresh perspective to creativity and problem-solving."

Prida, who presents her Holiday Collection in "Over the Roof Top," is known for her designs with embroidery and embellishments from different regions of Mexico. She also works in a wide range of shapes and fabrics. Some of these, in spare and easy pieces, include handspun wool, matte jersey, textured gauze, linen, cotton, damask and rayon. Late-day fabrics are silk, organza, brocade, crinkle lace, satin and velvet with crystal beading. Colors for fall are deep berry shades, slate, sienna and tawny gold.

Shapes as clean and relaxed as tunics, elasticized waist skirts and pants and unconstructed jackets have a look of unstudied elegance.

The late-day and evening clothes are spirited and glamorous with the unexpected mix of traditionally inspired pieces, paired with lace, silk crepe de chine or jersey giving a highly individual and sure sense of style.

Under the direction of Ronald Kolodzie, whose expertise in event design has run the gamut from United Way to Gianni Versace, "Over the Roof Top" promises to be an exciting display of uninhibited imagination, creativity and culture all wrapped up into one.

"Veronica's collection, inspired by Mexico, ranges from the spare and minimal to the elaborate. Her designs are so individual that they represent the diversity of this cosmopolitan city," said Kolodzie. Serving also as a mentor to UIW's fashion design students, Kolodzie says the purpose of "Fantasy Creations" is to give the students an opportunity to experiment with everyday items and challenge their own imagination.

Robert Mitchell, coordinator of models, set design and sound, has made a tremendous contribution with his many experiences in runway shows. "I think the most interesting aspect of this particular show is the unusual location of being outdoors," said Mitchell. "I'm also very honored to be a part of Veronica's continued dedication to the fashion design department as well as Incarnate Word."

Another feature in the "Over the Roof Top" program is the honoring of San Antonio/Mexican designer Lila Bath. Although Bath no longer designs or manufactures her designs, her creations have been likened to Chanel's "timeless classics."

With more than 40 years in the Mexican fashion industry, Bath is considered a pioneer. Her styles range from Mexican wedding dresses with lace insets to elegant dinner suits adorned with sparkling beads. Now living in San Antonio, Bath's designs have been featured in such department stores as Harrod's in London, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. Bath was also instrumental in organizing the Fashion Group International and helped start the San Antonio chapter in 1984. A representation of Bath's collections will be shown throughout the evening.

All proceeds from the fashion show benefit the UIW Fashion Department. Tickets are $60. However, donations are accepted if one cannot attend. Make checks payable to the University of the Incarnate Word Fashion Department (include tax information). For more information, call 829-6013.