5 questions with Francisco Flores
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Francisco Flores is the art director for ArtWear 2009. He has a bachelor of fine arts degree in fashion from the University of North Texas. He is also a licensed cosmetologist. In 2006, he was named one of the top 10 Texas fashion designers by the Dallas Fashion Incubator and Stanley Korshak. He lives in Oak Lawn with his partner of 22 years, Jeffrey Cook, and his Beta fish, Mr. Powell. ArtWear is Saturday, May 9, at 8 p.m. in the Silver Eagle Suite of the University Union at the University of North Texas. Admission is $25, or $10 with a UNT student ID.
What is ArtWear 2009?
ArtWear is a fashion show that showcases original designs by students in the University of North Texas College of Visual Arts and Design. All of the garments are juried by industry professionals and must meet certain standards to be in the show. The students must make it into the show in order to graduate.
What other fashion events are you involved with?
I have been producing the ArtWear show for 10 years. I just finished my third year producing "fashionCITED: a style event," which is a fundraiser for the Legal Hospice of Texas. I also conduct critiques for several of the fashion design projects. I love to see the students grow and it is a great honor to be able to showcase their talent.
What do you do in your role as art director for ArtWear?
I select the models and design the runway, lighting and seating. I line up the scenes, select music, and create the look for the hair and make-up. I also conduct the fittings for 30 female models and 10 male models. And I sponsor the Director’s Choice Award by choosing a design that is beautifully constructed inside and out.
Why should people go to see ArtWear?
The fashion design department wins many local, statewide and national awards annually. The designs are very diverse and over 600 people come every year to see a great show. Tickets will be sold at the door.
What are the biggest trends for the summer for fashion?
Trends for women are asymmetrical shoulder lines, butterfly motifs, sheer fabrics, saturated colors, fringe and lots of it, exposed stomachs and midriffs, Grecian gowns, and jewel encrusted looks. Ethnic and tribal looks from all over the globe are still very hot. Ripped and torn denim is really big for summer also. Shoes are fetish inspired, and include fringes, reptile skins and are sky high. In men’s fashion the trend progresses a little more slowly than women. Suits are moving away from the monochromatic skinny boy look to a more masculine and adventurous look, but keeping the slim fit.
Soundout is a weekly column featuring people whose jobs and interests have an impact on the daily lives of members of the LGBT community. It features those who often go unnoticed by the press and community. If you’d like to recommend someone to cover in this column, editor@dallasvoice.comÂ.
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition May 8, 2009.