Just because you’re saying, “I do,” doesn’t mean you have to flounce down the aisle in tiers of tulle or waves of white satin (not that there’s anything wrong with that). That’s the idea behind this Thursday’s Operation Aisle Style, an invite-only alternative bridal fashion event taking place at the W Hotel (keep reading for your chance to score tickets).

Inspired by local author Carolyn Gerin’s Anti-Bride series from Chronicle Books, the multimedia shindig features two runway shows. In one, “Project Runway” contestant and Kenneth Pool lead designer Austin Scarlett sends his latest designs down the catwalk. The second puts original looks created especially for the event by Art Institute of California-San Francisco fashion design students to the test before a panel of judges. A performance by The Hooks caps off the evening.

During an event preview we attended at the Art Institute last week, students were busily putting the finishing touches on pieces ranging from a Mad Men-themed frock to a politically-charged ensemble highlighting the practice of marrying child brides in other cultures. A recycling-themed gown surprised us with a neckline of shampoo bottle caps, while others stepped outside the bounds of traditional wedding attire with leather, metallic fabrics and bare midriffs.

We can’t wait to see the final looks later this week. In the meantime, we’re giving away five pairs of tickets to the event, which takes place March 12 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. To win, be one of the first five people to correctly answer the following question in the comments section below:

• Where and when did San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom wed wife Jennifer?

Good luck!