N.B. news: Saint John designer wins Cashmere Collection Fashion Show
A talented fashion designer from New Brunswick has recently garnered national attention for her innovative creation made from an unexpected material. Chavah Lindsay, hailing from Saint John, wowed the crowd at the 2024 Cashmere Collection Fashion Show in Toronto with a stunning dress crafted entirely from bathroom tissue.
The annual event showcased the work of 16 designers, all coming together to raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society. For Lindsay, the cause hit close to home as she lost her mother, Margaret, to cancer. In tribute to her mother’s memory, Lindsay poured her heart into designing a short, corset-backed dress that ultimately took home the top prize.
Creating a garment out of delicate layers of tissue presented its own set of challenges for Lindsay. She shared in an interview with CTV Morning Live Atlantic that she had to redo the dress multiple times as the material would tear easily. Despite the setbacks, Lindsay persevered, joking that the tissue could double as a tear-dabber during moments of frustration.
The winning gown featured intricate pink roses, aligning with the event’s theme of “Bloom.” Lindsay explained that she wanted to capture her family’s journey through her mother’s illness, symbolizing growth and transformation in the design.
Describing her mother as “wonderful,” Lindsay reflected on the unwavering support she received in pursuing her passion for art and fashion. She recounted a poignant moment when her mother expressed a desire for Lindsay to remember her through butterflies, a symbol that would later manifest in a touching encounter with her model at the fashion show.
The emotional culmination of winning the Cashmere Collection Fashion Show caught Lindsay by surprise. She admitted feeling overwhelmed when her name was announced, but was grateful for the opportunity to give back. The proceeds from her victory will be donated to breast cancer research in her name, a gesture that Lindsay considers a fitting tribute to her mother’s legacy of support and love.
As Lindsay continues to make waves in the fashion industry, she remains grounded in her roots, drawing inspiration from her personal experiences and using her talent to make a meaningful impact. The journey from grief to triumph has come full circle for Lindsay, reminding her of the power of art to heal and connect.
For more updates on New Brunswick news and inspiring stories like Chavah Lindsay’s, be sure to visit our dedicated provincial page.
