Florissant Teen Designer Wins Prize at Salvation Army's Garbage Bag Gala

If the two dresses Lexi Koenig made out of primarily duct tape and trash bags weren't enough to turn heads, her age certainly was.

Koenig, a 17-year-old Florissant resident, created two stunning dresses—one formal and one casual—for The Salvation Army's Garbage Bag Gala, which was held at the Moonrise Hotel July 27 in University City. The event aimed to shine a spotlight on The Salvation Army's homeless services as models showcased creations made of garbage bags and duct tapes, designed by some of St. Louis's top fashion minds. 

Koenig was one of more than a dozen designers to participate. She was sponsored by a local business, , where she is in training to become a cosmetologist.

Patch was a sponsor at the event and provided three of the models. For a photo gallery of the event, check out University City Patch's Facebook page.

Koenig's model and hair stylist were also Florissant residents—model Jenna Petroff and Jesse Koenig.

On her Facebook page, Petroff glowed of Lexi Koenig's talent. 

"Just wanted to say how extremely proud I am of the disgustingly talented Lexi Koenig for all of her hard work in creating some of the most stunning fashion designs for last night's Garbage Bag Gala," she said. "I hope that the overwhelming support from the crowd, media and esteemed judges prove how amazing you are. With such vision at only 17, I can't wait to see what's next. The sky is the limit, kid! And thanks so much to Jesse Koenig for fab hair and wardrobe assistance."