THE imperfections of life led to the perfect design for this freelance designer.

Ms Denise Chng, 24, designed a pair of cargo pants with ends made out of army socks. It also had a big pocket.

It caught the eye of the judges to win the top prize in the final of the Code JEANius competition at Hylam Street in Bugis Junction yesterday.

Said Ms Chng: 'My design was inspired by the imperfections of everyday life. It's a very raw, very grunge kind of look. Some guys don't like to carry bags, so they can put their stuff into the pocket instead.'

She won $2,000 worth of products and vouchers from Bugis Junction.

It was a dream come true for the eight aspiring designers whose designs were modelled on the catwalk.

The competition organised by Bugis Junction required those taking part to take an ordinary pair of jeans and turn it into a stylish, fashion garment.

In the 'I Can Do The Catwalk' section, modelling hopefuls, previously selected through auditions, strutted down the catwalk, wearing the designs.


The judges this year comprised designer Frederick Lee, Lee Cooper brand manager Mick J S Maniam, celebrity stylist Fong Fan and 20th Century Fox marketing executive Kevin Khor.

Mr Maniam said: 'We're looking for creativity, how they execute the design, and practicality.'

From the moment the contest began, the designers worked with fervour, knowing they had only an hour to complete their creation.

The designers, who were equipped with sewing kits, embellishments, and even a mini sewing machine, mercilessly ripped apart the jeans.

The contest attracted a large pool of curious on-lookers.

In the crowd was Mr Desmond Tay, husband of contestant Stella Wong. 'This is her passion,' he said. 'She sometimes goes to Spotlight to buy materials and designs her own clothes.'

Student Joel Xiang, 20, who entered the competition for the second time this year, was behind one of the more outrageous designs.

He created an 'avant-garde hoodie'. He put large armholes in the jeans, for it to be worn as a top.

The Laselle design student said: 'I'm testing the waters this year. I think if it's something crazy and new, nobody would dare to wear it.'