“When I found out that I won the giveaway I was completely surprised. I usually never win these kinds of things,” said Hangen, who lives in Dayton and studies piano. “I felt so special knowing that I was going to have my own unique dress.”
VanLear celebrated its 10th anniversary this year by holding another Prom Dress Giveaway. Lora VanLear, a custom fashion designer, has given away gowns worth up to $500 in the past. Hangen selected the fabric and the trim, and knew the color she preferred for the occasion. Together, they came up with a unique floor-length gown with a halter neckline within one week.
“The design process was amazing. As I was describing my dress, Lora drew a sketch with every detail that I asked for,” said Hangen, who wants to attend college some day and major in engineering.
Hangen was among many others who applied online for the Prom Dress Giveaway. She was chosen for the honor in April.
VanLear is a custom fashion designer/illustrator with a degree from the University of Cincinnati. She has over 30 years of experience in fashion. She has outfitted countless number of brides, and her designs have been featured in magazines.
VanLear Bridals began operating in New York City in 1984. The business grew from a showroom on Seventh Avenue to a renovated bridal floor at 1375 Broadway. In 2002 she brought her New York City showroom to historic Miamisburg.
“We love the atmosphere and small town camaraderie we have found here,” said VanLear, who is originally from Cincinnati. “New York is a fun place to visit, but it is quite another matter to actually live there and run a very demanding business. Here we have the best of both worlds.”
In those worlds they focus on creating custom designs for galas, evening wear, pageants, Christening gowns, bridal parties, and of course, prom. The business is located at 106 S. Second St. in Miamisburg, four miles west of the Dayton Mall.
“I was extremely happy with my dress! It was such a surreal experience to wear my dream prom dress. I felt like a princess,” Hangen said.
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