Johnsonite Products Used in Winning Fashion

Chagrin Falls, OH, Dec. 5, 2011 -- A dress and cape using Johnsonite products took first prize in this year’s Product Runway fashion show.

The winning entry incorporated Johnsonite’s Optima sheet vinyl, Harmonium xf linoleum tile, ID Premier Luxury Vinyl Tile, welding rods and wall base.

The entry was designed by Lexington, Kentucky-based Deborah Drury Interior Design and student from the University of Kentucky.  

Hosted by the Ohio/Kentucky chapter of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) the annual event, held in cities nationwide, pairs design firms and interior design students with manufacturers of interior finishing products, challenging them to create high-fashion ensembles using only the materials provided by their sponsor.

With materials including wood paneling, leather, liquid metal, canvas, carpet, wall covering, vinyl flooring, and even air purification filters, each team of designers was challenged to use interior building materials in creative and unconventional ways. Students were recruited by the designers to help develop design concepts and construct the garments.

The winning team consisted of Deborah Drury, UK alumna and owner of Deborah Drury Interior Design, Lori Gibson of CDC Distributors, Inc., and UK interior design students Rula Al-Obaidi, Lexie Foellger, Elizabeth Harr, Abby Hyland, McKenize Jolly and Gracie Vinyard.

Together the team worked to create “Sleek Sophistication,” an ensemble inspired by couture evening gowns and constructed exclusively using flooring and finishing products from Johnsonite, the team’s partner and sponsor.