Nashmin 
Can you introduce your brand and yourself in a few sentences?
My designs are made to make fantasy become reality. My goal is to instil confidence in every woman who wears my dresses and make her remember how she felt wearing it everyday. Every design is made to flatter, as well as accentuate a woman’s body.
What sparked your interest in fashion design?
I have always been interested in fashion and aesthetics. I love seeing how various events around the world influence trends and design.
My maternal grandmother was an accomplished artist. She taught me everything about art and always encouraged me to follow my passion. My paternal grandmother used to sew dresses for me when I was young. She gave me my first sewing machine when I was 10. That is when I really started experimenting with designing and sewing. Both grandmothers would send me packages with scraps of fabrics to design with. This helped my creativity and always kept me interested in designing.
Can you describe your creative process?
My creative process changes for each design. Sometimes I design a dress for some fabric and other times, I choose fabric for a design. I like to forecast trends and find a way to fit the trends into my aesthetic as a designer. Most of the time, I simply start sketching and come up with a new look as I go.
What is your favorite part of being a designer? What drives you to design?
My favourite part is when a model or a client puts on my design, looks in the mirror, and smiles. I love having that impact on people. Bringing them confidence and joy is something I strive for.
How do you find working as a designer where your brand is based? Has the culture/surroundings affected your design aesthetic? Do you feel connected to your home?
I moved from Texas to New York City about a year ago. Both locations influence my designs. The nature and wildflowers of Texas are very apparent in my work, as are the lights and glamour of New York. I try to blend the two as much as I can.
In anticipation of your runway show at Vancouver Fashion Week, what are you most looking forward to?
I am looking forward to displaying my work in front of a large audience, and seeing more designer’s aesthetics. I love learning about different types of fashion.
What is the inspiration behind your S/S20 collection to be showcased at Vancouver Fashion Week?
My inspiration for SS20 would be my transition from the relaxed pace of Texas to the fast pace of New York. You’ll see many flowing gowns followed by more structured ones.
What are you hoping are the reactions from audiences seeing your designs (perhaps for the first time)?
Most of the audience will be seeing Claire Elisabeth for the first time during Vancouver Fashion Week. I hope their reactions mirror my design goals. I want the audience to see the model’s confidence and to want that for themselves.
Thank you for speaking with us, Claire. We look forward to seeing your brand on the VFW runway this season!
Photos contributed.
