Fashion designers, students unite for fundraiser

'In Spirit of Peace and Harmony' is the theme for the third annual Hollie D. Forest fashion show, a collaborative effort between six local fashion designers and the Lester B. Pearson School Board (LBPSB).

It was chosen to reflect several LBPSB high schools recently joining Peaceful Schools International, a non-profit organization geared towards creating a peaceful learning environment, according to Macdonald High School student Cynthia Rocha.

Peace and harmony are incorporated into the fashion show through the planning process which focuses on teamwork and co-operation, not competition, Rocha said.

But the theme has not influenced any of the designs, according to Forest.

“It’s really about mentoring the girls. When you think of fashion shows, it’s not a happy feeling. It’s about egos, it’s about being thin. It’s not like that for our girls,” she said. “I wanted to give them a safe place to learn.”

And what they learned was a wide range of event-planning skills, from promoting the show to their friends, families and schools, and selecting music for the soundtrack of the show, to asking local retailers for support in the form of accessories.

“It was so fast-paced,” St. Thomas High School student Julia Lyakhovich said. “The challenge was getting everything done right. And on time.”

For students like Lyakhovich, the experience might have sparked an interest that she’ll pursue in her future.

“I think I might really like co-ordinating events,” she said. “I like seeing how different people work, like getting into the mind of a stylist.”

Although John Rennie High School student Gifty Kwaofio, who looks up to supermodel Tyra Banks, did not participate in the planning, being part of the show brought her closer to her dream too.

“I’d love to be a model,” she said. “I like wearing the different clothes, the make-up, the way they do my hair. I like people paying attention to me.”

And there will be plenty of people watching. According to designer Jane Berri, the show is growing each year.

“There are a lot more people involved,” she said. “More models. More sponsors. The media is more interested too.”

The show has become more creative, as well, with designers expanding beyond their basic bridal garments, she added. Berri in particular, who specialized in gothic clothing, has branched out to punk, hip-hop and even to the Japanese-inspired Lolita style.

Participants agreed that they felt comfortable within the group exploring who they were and expressing themselves. It was especially rewarding seeing the young women gain confidence, according to Berri.

“People here are so supportive. It’s so open, so warm. You don’t feel pressured to look a certain way or act a certain way,” Lyakhovich said.

The show, which also includes performing artists, a silent auction and a raffle, is from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday at the Holiday Inn Pointe Claire. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children. Again this year, all proceeds from the event will go to the Pearson Educational Foundation. For more information, call Hollie D. Forest at 514-630-3901.