Hi Everyone! Welcome to my very first designer’s blog ever! My name is Uvana Doran, and I invite you to follow my journey as I design a collection for Goodwill’s 2015 “Rock The Runway”competition! I am both excited and honored to have been chosen to participate in this fabulous event for such a great cause!
ABOUT ME
I’m an emerging designer from New York, who decided to relocate to the South four years ago. Seeking the comfort of a lush natural environment, a great atmosphere to raise my children in, and new experiences, I took a leap of faith and made a move. I could see great 
things awaiting me both academically and professionally if only I had the audacity to venture out of my comfort zone and try something new with my talents. I did just that and it was one of the best decisions I ever made, realizing that the strength in an eagle’s wings can never be realized in a bird cage.
GETTING STARTED
Ok, so part of my challenge for the competition is to re-craft, design, and up-cycle random pieces of clothing I select at Goodwill stores here in the Triad area. My first shopping trip with my gift card was a great success! Thank you for the smiles Ms. 
Renetta and Marcus, fantastic Goodwill employees! Both whom were so excited to find out why I had a cart packed full of clothes! (smiles) From the Hawaii 5-0 shirt, and flower printed Mumu, to sequined gowns, and a vintage brown leather jacket… (Had to laugh to myself)..this is going to be so much fun! The creative wheels are already turning!
EYE OF A DESIGNER
I’ve “swatched” some of the clothes to be recycled, to make the colors easier on the eyes (laughs) and I’m starting to see a color story developing! These awesomely rich color choices have me thinking about an evening in Harlem (hint)…perhaps I’m missing NY??
CAN YOU SEE IT?
(The theme building process)
Later in the week as my creative wheels continued to turn, I began to sketch out a few ideas while sitting poolside on a beautiful day. Rich plum colors reminiscent of a wonderfully aged glass of red wine with friends. Sequins and all things shiny reminding me of how New York comes to life at night. From the sparkle of the pavement to the luminescent and unique restaurants..to the headlights of what would seem like a gazillion yellow taxi cabs! The Posh red and mocha browns remind me of Harlem, so rich in culture.
I think we’re going somewhere with this and I like it! Pack your bag and get ready to be wowed on this design journey! ….Stay Tuned!
Follow me on Facebook and click “like” to show your support:
Facebook: Facebook.com/UvanaDoran
Instagram: uvanadoran
Website: uvanadoran.com