Philadelphia University kicks off senior collection

Philadelphia University launched its spring senior collection Saturday with scores of fashions inspired by Little Red Riding Hood, desert sand dunes, and the circus, 1820s-style.

So dazzling.

One of the most interesting collections was Sarah Harris' floor-grazing skirts and leotards made from tulle, velvet, chiffon, and organza. Harris' vision was inspired by car collisions; who knew ouch could be so pretty? Her collection won most creative.

And who could help saying awwww at Nicole Wilson's colorful grouping of children's wear inspired by 1960s Paris? Wilson won the Young Spirit Award for Excellence in children's wear.

The university also honored John Varvatos with its Spirit of Design Award. Varvatos, who is based in New York, is primarily a menswear designer and serves as mentor on the NBC reality-television show Fashion Star.

— Elizabeth Wellington