Runway Radar: Lindsey Jenner's Lady Doe promotes independence among older adult women

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      By Amelia Trofymow

      Lindsey Jenner creates functional, adaptive clothing for older adults that allow for self-expression. Lady Doe, Jenner’s thesis collection, offers self and caregiver-assisted dressing solutions that merge fashion and function in order to empower older adult women, promote independence, and encourage self-expression.

      Lady Doe will be unveiled at 2018 The Show presented by Tamoda Apparel Inc., on April 19 and 20 at Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s (KPU) new purpose-built Wilson School of Design building. The beautiful and innovative $36-million building houses a range of design programs including the fashion-design-and-technology program. Thirty-one other lines by KPU fashion design and technology students will also be showcased.

      For event details, visit kpu.ca/2018fashionshow or follow @wilsondesignkpu on Instagram.

      Amelia Trofymow: What was the inspiration behind your line?

      LJ: My nana. As she began to age, I realized the difficulties that she faced in dressing on a daily basis while living in a retirement centre. Ultimately, I wanted to be able to improve her quality of life. My goal was to empower her and give her the ability to wear something stylish that was also functional and easy for herself or her caregiver to get her dressed. My main goal was to maintain her dignity and promote her independence.

      AT: What are your plans for after graduation?

      LJ: After graduation, I hope to continue my education at UBC in the teaching program. I want to be able to take what I am so passionate about and educate others. I want to be able to provide a safe environment where students can find their full potential.

      AT: What aspect of design are you most passionate about?

      LJ: I love problem solving. I enjoy being able to try different techniques to eventually find the right solution. I like to take something basic and turn it into something with a purpose or feature.

      AT: Describe your education journey.

      LJ: My design education was very different from what I expected. I was amazed by how passionate and enthusiastic the teachers were. It was very clear that they loved what they did, and I knew I wanted to be able to give that direction and support to others like they did for me. It was a roller-coaster ride throughout the four years at KPU, and although my goal has shifted, I am excited for what is next.

      AT: What word best encapsulates you as a designer?

      LJ: Compassion. I believe that fashion is about more than the clothes you wear, but how you feel in them and why you chose to wear them. Self-expression is important for all sizes and ages.

      Amelia Trofymow is a final-year fashion design and technology student at KPU’s Wilson School of Design.

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