We are thrilled to announce the call for makers, artists, and designers to participate in the Fishin' For Fashion Show strutting down the catwalk (made of lobster crates) on June 15th! This unique show will spotlight the innovative use of rescued marine industry materials to craft one-of-a-kind fashion pieces that redefine style while championing our seaside stewardship. This beloved tradition is returning for its 9th year.
So what is Fishin’ For Fashion? Designers are tasked with transforming discarded marine materials into bespoke fashion pieces, showcasing the potential for sustainable and stylish designs. Repurposing items such as fishing nets, sails, nautical maps, shrinkwrap, rope, buoys, and other marine materials into stunning fashion statements. They embellish and incorporate as many components as possible for shoes, jewelry, hats, one-of-a-kind bags, etc. Local clothing boutiques also join in the fun showing off their season’s best. Judges from the fashion and media industries award 1st, 2nd and 3rd place–with an additional award for the best original bag/tote. Plus, the audience votes on the coveted People’s Choice award! This isn’t just a fashion show, it’s also a fundraiser, and those bespoke bags are auctioned off to benefit local causes.
Sound right up your alley? Have you been to past shows and feel inspired? We invite you to breathe new life into materials that would otherwise end up in landfills, and join in the party at the Shipyard in Boothbay Harbor!
Makers Market: Calling All Artists and Shops! In addition to the Fishin' For Fashion Show, we're excited to invite local artists and shops to join our Makers Market held before and after the models walk the runway. We envision a pop-up marketplace at the Shipyard to showcase and sell unique creations with a sustainable twist!
Whether you specialize in handmade jewelry, home decor, or other artisanal crafts, we want you to be part of this vibrant event! If you're an artist or designer eager to make a splash in the world of sustainable fashion or a local shop looking to showcase your handmade goods, we want to hear from you!
To apply for the Fishin' For Fashion Show or secure a spot in the Makers Market, please contact Michael Maxim - maxter777@gmail.com or 207-350-0924) or The Boothbay Harbor Chamber at (207) 633-2353 for more information.
Let's make waves together in the world of sustainable art and fashion!
After seeing the 2022 show, Cheryl King Nelson was inspired to create her own original design - a Sail Away Wedding Dress! Photo by Dave Dostie
Shea Fritz and Elise Wilson, students at BRES, rocked their first Fishin' For Fashion Show! Model Photo: Dave Dostie
July Hasch wowed the crowd with her flapper-style outfit made of fishing lures. Model Photo: Dave Dostie
Charlee Fuchswans wore designer Earl Brewer’s creative outfit, complete with sea-inspired jewelry. Model Photo: Dave Dostie
Kate Lamontagne who makes her own beautiful clothing at her store Kamala Boutique, found new inspiration in the region's nautical heritage. In addition to a nautical flag runway outfit, she created this incredible bag—which went for top (record-breaking) dollar at the auction!
