Three Grayson High Students Wear Thrift-Store Looks to Prom

Three girls from Grayson High School walked into prom at the Atlanta History Center in a dress that’s unlike any other. The three teens were selected as winners of the Prom Remixed Essay Contest created by Goodwill of North Georgia and The2econdFloor.com. The students were asked to write, in 500 words, about their view on incorporating used and/or repurposed clothing into their personal style.

“One of our strategic goals as organization is to engage all generations in the future of Goodwill. This contest provided a way for us to connect our unique shopping experience to the next generation of Goodwill shoppers and donors,” says Elaine Armstrong, director of public relations for Goodwill. “The essays were not only very well-written, but they really told the story of how these girls have embraced thrift shopping. It’s refreshing to see how youth are making a fashion statement by filling their closets with inexpensive pieces they’ve found at our stores.”

According to a press release, the girls worked with The2econdFloor.com and local designer Daphania Adams to redesign or “remix” dresses pulled from the racks of Goodwill stores.

“I'm super excited to be collaborating with Goodwill on Prom Remixed.  I think it's awesome that the younger generation is so open to thrifting, and we'll get to show even more of them how cool it can be. Shopping at Goodwill is just as fun as going to the mall because it gets your creative juices flowing and there's a thrill that you get from the hunt,” said Corey Bertrand of The2econdFloor.com. "Finding that perfect one-of-a-kind piece can give your style the extra boost it needs to set you apart from the rest of the crowd. You never have to worry about anyone having the same outfit and even more amazing, you only spend a few bucks on it.  It's a win-win situation. Thrifting is definitely the new black.”

Senior Anna Corbitt, who was the contest’s grand prize winner, received a custom look to wear to the prom as well as shoes to match, hair and makeup services, a photo shoot and a limo service for her special day. Finalists, Anna Gehle and Gabrielle Thorpe, wore a custom dress, shoes, hair and makeup services and also got in on a photo shoot.

This is not the first time GHS has been involved with a Goodwill project. Students have had competitive drives to collect for the organization and hosted a fashion show to demonstrate the benefits of shopping at Goodwill.

About The2econdFloor.com

Former fashion blog, The2econdFloor.com has recently transitioned it's focus to creative consulting. As a blog, The 2econd Floor focused on highlighting the talent of local designers, artists and musicians. The company plans to continue to operate with the same focus in mind, but in a more hands-on manner. Creative Director Corey Bertrand realizes the importance of introducing new talent to the world and is currently working on several dynamic projects that will work toward the transition of the site from a blog to a full fledged agency. 

About Goodwill

The mission of Goodwill of North Georgia is to put people to work. We have been providing services in the region for more than 85 years. In fiscal year 2012, we provided job training and employment services to more than 36,121 people and helped 10,224 people find jobs or start new businesses. Our organization currently operates 43 stores and more than 60 attended donation centers. Revenues generated from Goodwill’s retail program help fund our job training and placement programs. Last year, we processed nearly 1.8 million donations.

See also

• Grayson High School Students Give Back to the Community in a Fashionable Way.