On November 2, the community will raise funds for the resilient women of Seattle Goodwill at the Glitter Gala. This is an opportunity to enjoy cocktail hour activities, dinner, a fashion show and after-party – all to benefit Goodwill’s free Job Training and Education programs. This year’s fashion show will feature garments from Goodwill stores and four local designers putting together an upcycled look with materials found at the Seattle Outlet Store. We talked to two of the designers to learn more.

Patricia Dooley

https://www.facebook.com/UtterlyOtter/  

Tell us a bit about your designs and style? 

I design one of a kind looks for photography, theatre and cosplay, tending to a more architectural style concentrating on lines and feelings. My clothes work to reinforce what a woman loves about herself and help to tell the story of the wearer. My talented daughter and muse, Rachel, is my collaborator. She inspires and enables me. 

What are some of your favorite Goodwill finds? 
We found Rachel's wedding dress in last year's glitter sale. We knew that we had a good chance to get something special there.   

If someone was new to shopping thrift what tips would you give them? 
Be open to something different. This is a perfect chance to try clothes that you never thought would suit you. There are so many different items all in one place.

Do you have a Goodwill store you shop more frequently? 
I like shopping at the Lynnwood Goodwill. When my kids were home, we could always get great coats there.  

Can you share a bit about your upcycled design for the Glitter Gala?
I am still working out the look. But since my inspiration is air, I want lots of volume and drama.  We will see what the fabric tells me what it wants to do.

Why should people come to the Glitter Gala and see the fashion show? 
The models in the main show all have so much fun. It is a really incredible performance. Then, the upcycled looks give you a wonderful twist on how to view fashion. I am always blown away by the talent of the designers. I love my purse I picked up in the (Glitter Gala) pop-up shop last year. And the food was delicious.

Tina Witherspoon

www.bohorepublic.com

How would you define your style?
My design style has always followed a bohemian aesthetic but always leaves room for classics silhouettes that never go out of style. BoHo republic’s motto is ‘casual, comfortable, chic...’

What are some of your favorite Goodwill finds?

My favorite thing while shopping at Goodwill is to find a brand or design I’ve never seen before that has its own unique statement. It’s like finding buried treasure!

If someone was new to shopping thrift what tips would you give them?

Think about supplementing your wardrobe with staple items from a thrift store. Most clothing sold at Goodwill still has a lot of life left. So items like T-shirts, jeans and sweaters are affordable and can supplement anyone’s closet.

Do you have a Goodwill store you shop more frequently?

I typically go to the main store on S. Lane St. but if I have a whole day free I’ll drive to the suburbs and go to a location I haven’t been to before - that’s always fun!

Can you share a bit about your upcycled design for the Glitter Gala?

My garment will be the finale of the ‘earth’ segment, and I just came back from a family vacation to Yellowstone Park where I saw for the first time the grand prismatic spring! It was amazing... bold mineral colors and metallic shine. It really inspired the colorful slant of my design. 

Why should people come to the Glitter Gala and see the fashion show?

The gala has so much energy! Everyone in the room can feel it. Watching runway fashions walk the stage worn by very enthusiastic models you can’t help but have fun! The work that Goodwill is doing to help people get back to jobs is critical to not only their lives but our economy. It is very important work that deserves a lot of credit.