Behind the Scenes: Design Process for Breast Cancer Awareness Fashion Show

Periodically I have the opportunity to create a collection of designs for a Breast Cancer Awareness Fashion Show. The last show was done in October 2018 for Cancer League of Colorado. Each model was fitted into a garment of my choosing based on body types and personality types.

This collection was black and red, with pops of pink to go with the theme, “Cityscape to Countryside.” Brooks LTD clothing is all about your attitude and style, no matter the shape of your body or your age. My design aesthetic is diverse and multigenerational, not just for one group of women. And this collection was made to bring this idea to life.

The art of custom making clothes takes patience, perseverance, dedication and skill. The original consultation is where ideas are discussed to determine the silhouette and the fit. A muslin is made based on these discussions.

Meet Keri, a beautiful woman who loves fashion as much as I do. I had a vision of creating the perfect sassy version of a stretch ensemble that was somewhat revealing, but tasteful at the same time. To carry out the theme of the entire collection I added a beautiful lace skirt that made the otherwise casual garment appropriate for the runway, or even a special event in your future.

My vision began with a muslin, a dress form and an idea.

 Dress forms or mannequins are never the same as the real body type. After the muslin is created, I made another prototype in the actual fabric as it has different qualities than muslin, especially the stretch of the fabric. I then remade the design in the fabric planned, which was a leather-looking ponte stretch knit, and had the first fitting.

From this video, you can see that I needed to trim down the bodice for the correct fit. Shaping the bustline and making the design lines snug to the body were most important for this stretch fabric. Tasteful, elegant and not too revealing. Keri loved the process.

After those adjustments I was ready to perfect the garment with the right zipper, elastic trimming and the adjustable neckline finish. This design has so many possibilities, as the lace skirt is removable and can be worn different seasons with the right leggings and sweater for winter or camisole for summer. The one piece romper would be a great summer party ensemble with or without the skirt.

Once the adjustments were done, we met at a coffee shop to evaluate the design. Of course I couldn’t help myself and asked her to take a fun practice walk in the hallway. We love bathroom meetings!

 Each model that wears my design shows radiance and joy walking the runway. It gives me great pride to see the transformation of each empowered woman. Here is Keri walking the runway:

This is just one piece of the collection I made for all of the models to wear for the fashion show. Each design was made to fit these women according to their body type and style, and I loved seeing the whole collection come together for the big event! Here’s one of my favorite pictures of all of us:

All Runway Photos:  Hardy Klahold Photography