If You're of the Mind that Most Avatars Need a Serious Fashion Makeover, It's Time to Enter There.com's "Fashion Challenge" - a 9 Week Virtual Project Runway. FASHIONTRIBES FASHION BLOG

Online hangout There.com, a lush 3D environment where old & new friends can explore & build, has just kicked off their nine-week Fashion Challenge. Let the virtual fashionista games begin!

Every Wednesday, contestants' creations will be presented in virtual fashion shows on a 3D runway - featuring, of course, avatar models. There.com members then vote, American Idol-style, to eliminate one or more designers, until the final three contestants left standing face off for the crown in an August finale. There staff solicited fashion portfolios from the site’s members and selected 12 finalists to duke it out in weekly competitions.  The first challenge, due this week, is to design a men’s ensemble inspired by the pirate look.  (Think Johnny Depp meets Ralph Lauren.)  A new challenge with a new theme will be unveiled every week until the winner is anointed. The first-, second- and third-place designers will take home prizes including a Dell laptop, an Apple iPod and a Sony Playstation Portable.  All contestants will also be able to sell their designs in There auctions for purchase with Therebucks, the community currency, by other members who want to dress their avatars in high style.

Dolces, Gallianos & Stella McCartneys of the virtual world can get in on the fun at ThereFashionChallenge.com

- Lesley Scott

Fashiontribes Jewelry Shoes Fashion Avatar Fashion There.com Fashion Challenge Fashion Expert