2013 - "Inspired: The Fine Art of Fashion" Fashion Show
Michelle's bridal collection was inspired by Natalie Shau's usage of dark colors and pearlescent embellishments in her digital illustrations. Her gothic lolita dolls are adorned with floral and animalistic accessories, all of which she has chosen to use throughout her collection, Savant Garde.
On June 2013, Michelle participated in the "Inspired: The Fine Art of Fashion" Fashion Show hosted by The Art Institute of California - Orange County as a continuing student showcasing her bridal collection, closing the fashion show.
View the project in detail here
2013 - "Best in Show" Graduate Portfolio Review
Every quarter, The Art Institute of California - Orange County hosts a portfolio show for graduating students to showcase their hard work and dedication throughout their academic studies.
Wrapping up her studies in Fashion Design during her 2013 Winter quarter, Michelle submitted her final portfolio (which can be found throughout this website), launched her personal website, and created a beautiful portfolio booth representing herself as a designer and as an artist.
Every graduating student has an opportunity to win "Best of Show" at the graduate portfolio review, and Michelle won for Fashion Design.
2012 - "Cool Days, Haute Nights" Fashion Show
Inspired by the title and theme for the fashion show, Michelle designed a two-piece ensemble. With the thought of summer in her mind, she patterned a halter top (held up by a silver choker necklace) with a waterfall skirt with large ruffles on a beautiful floral printed linen.
On June 2012, Michelle participated in the "Cool Days, Haute Nights" Fashion Show hosted by The Art Institute of California - Orange County as a continuing student. As a result, Michelle placed first under the continuing students category for her couture inspired two-piece ensemble.
View the project in detail here
2011 - "Cool vs. Cruel" Contest hosted by The Humane Society
The Cool vs. Cruel Competition challenges Art Institutes students in fashion areas of study throughout the United States and in Vancouver to reinterpret and replace animal fur on runway looks by famous designers.
“This program encourages fashion design students to make informed choices by educating them about the millions of foxes, raccoons and other animals who are killed every year for the fur trade,” said Michelle McDonald, fashion outreach manager of the fur-free campaign for The Humane Society of the United States.
Inspired by the garments from Fendi, Alexander McQueen, Gucci and Oscar de la Renta, Michelle designed and constructed a leopard dress. In November of 2011, Michelle placed as a national finalist for the Orange County region.
View the 2011 regional finalists on The Humane Society website
View the photos of the dress on The Humane Society's Official Facebook Page
View the project in detail here
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