Barb Wallace is one of 17 designers participating in this year’s High Ball Halloween Costume Couture Fashion Showdown. I spoke with a very enthusiastic Barb Wallace about her many inspirations for this year’s four garments. The crafty Wallace gathers mainly clothing from thrift stores around Columbus as a base for a garment.
“I have always used this style,” Wallace said. “I see so much potential in every story!” Wallace also searches for inspiration in magazines and incorporates them into her one of a kind thrifty design’s. Wallace’s four pieces are designed around rocker yet feminine look incorporating studs, embellishments, chains, black skinny pants, ruffles, and other unique accessories.
Each designer is also creating a garment for the High Ball Costume Contest, which is open to the public. Last year thousands of people created one of kind costumes that shocked even the most professional designers.

“It is so fun to see what everyone comes up with!” Wallace added. “The costume I created for the costume contest is a juxtaposition of an industrial/organic look. The look is inspired by a rooftop garden, a steel background with flowers cascading down the dress.” Wallace said.
Halloween is that time when you can let it all go! We are excited to see Barb’s designs, as well as the costumes from the rest of the designers.
Tags: Columbus fashion designers, couture costume fashion showdown, Fashion, HighBall, Short North