• by Amy Corr , Staff Writer @MediaPostOTL, January 23, 2012

The automotive, fashion and art worlds collided when Lexus challenged four designers to create wearable pieces of art from car parts -- namely, parts from the the 90% recyclable Lexus CT 200h.

Artists were given one month to complete their designs, which were then placed on display in December during Art Basel Miami Beach.

Pieces were then sold at a private auction, with proceeds benefiting the Council of Fashion Designers of America/Vogue Fashion Fund, a not-for-profit trade association representing 400 fashion and fashion accessory designers.

I stopped watching “Project Runway” a few years ago, but this concept sounds like an ideal challenge for show contestants.

Results from the Lexus Fashion Workshop also appear in this month’s issue of Vogue as a six-page ad campaign promoting the green Lexus CT hybrid. Team One created the campaign.

Aside from one outlandish piece, three creations look surprisingly functional and comfortable to wear.

Moss Lipow created the “Environmental Crown of Virtue” or as I like to call it: “The Outlandish Piece.” It protects the back of your head, shields your eyes from the sun and guarantees that your friends will be able to find you in a crowded room. It’s crafted from a transmission starter and exhaust manifold gasket.

“The Valve Collection” is an attractive choker and bracelet set created by Eddie Borgo from valve lifters, crank bearings and hose clamps.

“Nomadic Sanctuary” blows my mind. John Patrick made a trench coat, shorts and clutch out of floor mats, sustainable sound-dampening material, wire harness, leather seat covers and cargo cover.

Alejandro Ingelmo crafted “The Luna Shoe” from armrest leather trim and clear plastic tubing. But are they comfortable?

According to Nancy Hubbell, Lexus Prestige Communications Manager, “The artists were previous CFDA finalists who all displayed exceptional talent in using unique materials in their designs.”

The Lexus Fashion Workshop is also being promoted via Vogue and Lexus’ social media channels.