The University of Arizona Bouquets to Art is a biennial collaboration of artists/designers and artists in paint/sculpture, supporting the Educational Mission of the University of Arizona Museum of Art. This year, four fashion designers were invited to participate.

The challenge: design and produce a garment embellished with live flowers. My solution: a two piece suit with a huge collar and cuffs of live flowers.

The process began with 2 recycled cotton v-neck sweaters. The larger man’s sweater was steeked up the front and the sleeves removed. The smaller ladies’ sweater front and back were refashioned into the jacket sleeves. The front of the smaller sweater required piecing to fill in the v-neck for the sleeve length.

With the exception of the sleeve insertion into the jacket body, the jacket was handstitched. Cables were tucked together for shaping and fit. This technique offered a beautiful detail as well as facilitating construction.

A vintage Albert Nipon thrift store find completed the suit with a perfect color and texture match. The skirt was deconstructed, recut and new lining installed. Due to inherent flaws in the skirt hem, it was left raw and unfinished. All other garment edges were finished with tricot binding.

Accessories included an upcycled necktie clutch from the Necktie Collection (www.karenlukacs.etsy.com) and a lovely cocktail hat from Margo Nickel at www.hatshadows.com

Thank you to Diane Hartman, Director of Resource Initiatives at the University of Arizona Museum of Art; Georgeanne Fimbres, fashion design and clothing instructor at Pima Community College; Amy Haskell, www.haskellphotography.com. It was a delightful evening in great company.