University of St. Thomas - Finding Design Inspiration

When it comes to designing nationals costume for the Tommies, it was a natural choice for Alysia Ulfers to come to The Line Up. She has had years of experience wearing our costumes. She is a 1999 graduate of Eden Prairie High School where she was a captain and dancer on the National Championship Pom Squad. In college she danced for the University of Wisconsin-Madison Dance Team. Most recently she performed in the NBA with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Design Challenge: For the 2009 Nationals outfit, it was important the garment have a ‘rock and roll’ feel to fit with the music, “Dirty Dianna” by Michael Jackson. Alysia wanted something ‘edgy’ yet feminine. She prefers a look that is stunning and timeless.

The inspiration for their costume came from the picture shown below, featured in a rock and roll fashion magazine. Combining lace with different fabric textures, along with metal zippers and silver chains, offered the appeal she was seeking. After working with Alysia, the design was confirmed and the prototype ready to make! Below is a digital illustration of the costume before the pattern was created and the prototype was made.

The Tommies will be competing this weekend in Florida at NDA Nationals. We wish them the best and look forward to posting pictures of their 2010 costume and performance.

To learn more about the Tommie Dancers, visit their website at: www.ustdanceteam.webs.com

Alysia Ulfers has been coaching the University of St. Thomas Dance Team, Tommie Dancers, since 2004. She has led the team to two national titles in 2006 and 2008.