Edmond teen named finalist in national duct tape dress contest

EDMOND, Okla. (KFOR) - This story is sure to stick with you! An Edmond teenager has been named a finalist in a nationwide contest where high school students craft prom dresses or tuxes out of duct tape. 

“It's really cool to see something I designed come to life,” said Bree Austin. 

Austin is a student at Edmond Memorial. She was scrolling on social media one day and came across an ad for the national Stuck at Prom® Scholarship Contest, and decided to give it a try. 

“I wanted to create something colorful in detail,” said Austin. “And then the idea of, like, a rainforest popped in my head and I just went with that.” 

19 rolls of duct tape and 97 hours later, below is Austin’s final product: 

Now, she’s one of ten finalists in the competition. There were more than 150 entries this year. 

"I took a fashion class my freshman year,” said Austin. “I've done some other art in the past, but this is kind of like the first big thing for me.” 

The judges base their selections on a variety of factors including originality, use of colors and accessories. 

A $15,000 scholarship for the first place winner of best dress and best tux is at stake. 

Unsurprisingly, Austin plans to study fashion design. 

"It would mean a whole lot for me because this is something I want to do in the future and then be great to win the $15,000 and hopefully pursue my fashion career,” said Austin. 

Here is the link to vote for Austin. Voting ends at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, July 10.