Squamish, a small but vibrant town nestled in the heart of British Columbia, recently played host to a unique and inspiring event: the Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show. Held on April 24, 2025, at the Brackendale Art Gallery: Café & Culture Centre, this event was more than just a fashion show—it was a celebration of individuality, community, and sustainability. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of this extraordinary event, its organizers, and the impact it had on the local community.
The Vision Behind the Event
The Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show was born out of a simple yet powerful idea: to give people a platform to showcase their unique styles and personalities. The event was inspired by conversations with Squamish locals who expressed a desire for more opportunities to wear and showcase their extraordinary outfits, often left hidden in their closets. The organizers wanted to create a social space where participants could have fun, express themselves, and connect with others who share a passion for fashion.
At its core, the event was a celebration of style and a community-building initiative. Every model, designer, stylist, and volunteer involved in the show was local, each contributing their unique flair and personal stories to the runway. This approach not only highlighted the diversity of the community but also fostered a sense of belonging and togetherness.
The Organizers: A Perfect Blend of Passion and Experience
Behind the success of the Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show were two dynamic individuals: Drea Moothu of Soul House Productions and Tif! Shen of Nine Tails Studio. Both Moothu and Shen are artists, fashion lovers, and long-time friends who have been curating vibrant events in Squamish for over two years.
Drea Moothu brings a wealth of experience from Toronto Fashion Week, where she honed her skills in event production and curation. Her background in one of Canada’s most prominent fashion events has given her a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of what makes a fashion show memorable.
Tif! Shen, on the other hand, comes from the Los Angeles fashion scene, where she gained a reputation for her innovative approach to fashion and her ability to bring people together through creative expression. Shen’s background in LA has influenced her unique style and her ability to think outside the box when it comes to event planning.
Together, Moothu and Shen make a formidable team. Their shared passion for fashion, their complementary skill sets, and their commitment to creating inclusive and engaging events have made them a driving force in Squamish’s cultural scene.
A Celebration of Individuality and Sustainability
One of the standout aspects of the Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show was its focus on sustainability. In an industry often criticized for its environmental impact, the event took a refreshing approach by encouraging participants to showcase outfits they already owned. This not only reduced waste but also highlighted the importance of valuing and reusing existing clothing.
“We wanted to promote the idea that fashion doesn’t have to be about constantly buying new things,” said Shen during an interview. “There’s so much creativity and potential in the clothes people already have in their closets. This event was a way to celebrate that and encourage people to think differently about their wardrobes.”
The event also served as a platform for self-expression. Participants were encouraged to let their personalities shine through their outfits, creating a runway that was as diverse as the community itself. From bold and eclectic looks to more understated and elegant styles, the show was a true reflection of Squamish’s vibrant and eclectic spirit.
A Community-Driven Initiative
What truly set the Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show apart was its strong focus on community. Every aspect of the event, from the models and designers to the stylists and volunteers, was local. This not only ensured that the event felt deeply rooted in the community but also provided opportunities for local talent to shine.
“We’re really proud of what we’ve accomplished here,” said Moothu. “This event was never just about fashion—it was about bringing people together and creating something that feels truly special. We’re grateful to everyone who participated and supported us along the way.”
The event also served as a reminder of the power of community-driven initiatives. By bringing people together and providing a platform for self-expression, the Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show helped strengthen connections within Squamish and fostered a sense of pride and belonging.
The Event: A Night to Remember
The Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show took place on April 24, 2025, at the Brackendale Art Gallery: Café & Culture Centre. The venue, with its intimate and artistic atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for the event. The show ran from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., giving attendees plenty of time to enjoy the festivities and connect with one another.
Tickets for the event were priced at $20, making it accessible to a wide range of people. This affordability was a deliberate choice by the organizers, who wanted to ensure that the event was inclusive and open to all members of the community.
Throughout the evening, attendees were treated to a diverse range of outfits and styles, each telling a unique story. The runway was filled with energy and enthusiasm, as models of all ages and backgrounds strutted their stuff with confidence and pride. The atmosphere was electric, with a palpable sense of joy and camaraderie filling the room.
The Impact of the Event
The Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show was more than just a one-night event—it was a movement. By promoting sustainability, celebrating individuality, and fostering community connections, the event left a lasting impact on Squamish and its residents.
For many participants, the event was a chance to step out of their comfort zones and showcase their unique styles. It was an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and feel a sense of belonging. For others, it was a reminder of the importance of sustainability in fashion and the creative potential of the clothes they already own.
The event also highlighted the importance of community-driven initiatives in fostering cultural vibrancy and social cohesion. By bringing people together and providing a platform for self-expression, the Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show demonstrated the power of fashion to unite and inspire.
A Bright Future for Fashion in Squamish
As the Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show comes to a close, one thing is clear: the future of fashion in Squamish is bright. With a growing community of passionate and creative individuals, there’s no shortage of talent and inspiration in the area.
Moothu and Shen have already hinted at plans for future events, promising even more exciting and innovative experiences for the community. Whether it’s another fashion show, a workshop, or something entirely new, one thing is certain: Squamish will continue to be a hub for creativity and self-expression.
For now, the Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show will be remembered as a celebration of style, sustainability, and community spirit. It was a night that brought people together, inspired creativity, and left a lasting impact on all who attended. As Squamish continues to grow and evolve, events like this will play a crucial role in shaping the town’s cultural identity and fostering a sense of pride and belonging among its residents.
Conclusion
The Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show was a testament to the power of fashion to bring people together and inspire positive change. By promoting sustainability, celebrating individuality, and fostering community connections, the event left an indelible mark on Squamish and its residents.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that events like this will continue to play a vital role in shaping the cultural landscape of Squamish. With a growing community of passionate and creative individuals, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a sustainability advocate, or simply someone who loves to connect with others, there’s no doubt that Squamish has something special to offer.
So, let’s raise a toast to the Out of Your Closet Community Fashion Show and to the incredible individuals who made it possible. Here’s to many more nights of style, creativity, and community spirit in Squamish!
