Fashion Garments

Straightjacket Fits owner and dressmaker Christel Van Krieken has created a collection of whimsical designs inspired by the classic children’s story which will feature in the show, to be held at the Poverty Bay Club on Friday.

All proceeds will go towards the Gisborne branch of CanTeen to support young people affected by cancer.

Ms Van Krieken has a vast collection of vintage fabrics she sources for her creations but it was one particular blue and pink floral design that inspired her latest range and the fashion show idea.

“I saw the colours and I just thought of a tea party, so I started pulling out other fabrics and decided to get something together,” she said.

“I really like to use end-of-run fabrics and off-cuts . . . for me it’s about recycling and using what is already there.”

She has been sewing since she was about seven years old, over the years using her creative ideas to make clothing, hats and more recently her own jewellery designs.

“I don’t want to be a fashion designer, I just want to be able to do what I enjoy doing. And with this fashion show, I have tried to bring a whole lot of other talent in there as well. I wouldn’t just do something like this for myself.”

Gateway students from Campion College have contributed to the fashion show with ideas and modelling for her promotional “look book”, while local artists have supported it with their creations, including a backdrop and handmade props such as oversized teacups and saucers.

Alongside Ms Van Krieken’s youngest daughter featuring in the fashion show as “Alice”, members of CanTeen will also be modelling in the show.

“I think it’s really important to involve them since it is for CanTeen.”

CanTeen member liaison co-ordinator Lianne Jenkins said it was a brilliant initiative that would make a huge contribution to the cause locally.

“All the funds raised will stay here in this region to support 13 to 24-year-olds whose lives have been affected by cancer. Not just those with cancer, but also for the siblings or bereaved siblings,” she said.

“The money will support patients when they are in hospital, and the activities we hold here locally.

“It’s great that the community is so supportive when it comes to events like this. We couldn’t do it without them.”

The fashion show will be held at the Poverty Bay Club on Friday, October 2 starting at 6.30pm.

Tickets are available from Straight Jacket Fits and The Little Hair Shop.