GEORGETOWN, Texas — The owner of the Austin School of Fashion Design (ASFD) was born and raised in Chile, and first lived in New York when she came to the United States as a young adult. Ilonka Soto-Pelyvas eventually found her way to Dallas, and in 2010, discovered Austin and the many opportunities for design work. She opened the school in a location on Burnet Road, where it was for many years, and now she has made the decision to relocate to Georgetown. The new school is located in Wolf Ranch Town Center, 1015 W. University Ave., Suite 507.
One of the projects the students have taken on is making face masks for purchase in these times of COVID-19 safety. The masks are washable, made of two layers of fabric, and come in a variety of designs — of course! Payment can be made via Venmo and the ASFD offers curbside pickup.
Something fun for everyone is a fundraising event set for Saturday, November 14 at 5 p.m. A supportive host is providing a two-acre outdoor venue for the “Fashion Runway Challenge.” The address will be given to attendees after they have purchased tickets to the event, which
are $30 or more, but group purchases are given a discount. The event showcases designs made by the students of ASFD. Pandemic safety requirements will be in place at the event, with social distancing and face masks required. The event will also be live-streamed for supporters who want to view it from their homes.
The design school offers a variety of classes for all ages, including a three-day December Holiday Sewing Camp for Kids. It will be held twice, beginning December 21 and December 28. Sewing machines are provided, and classes are from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. It is for ages eight through 12, though teens are also welcome. Discounts on class fees are available for sisters.
Other classes taught at ASFD include Fashion Illustration for teens and adults, Learn How to Sew, Modeling, Make Your Own T-Shirt and Leggings, Draping, Flat Pattern Principles, and Closure and Finishing Workshops. Private consultations with Soto-Pelyvas are also available. Complete an online form or call 920-345-6652.