Guest Judges & Designers 2021
We are thrilled to announce that our Guest Judges are doubling as our Guest Designers for the Fashion Show 2021! Night Dive Swim, Wanderlust, and Gretchen Bohling Designs are all Iowa native fashion companies that we are excited to showcase in our runway shows. The pandemic has hit local small businesses the most during this past year and we want to recognize their hard work and dedication during these hardships. Night Dive Swim, Wanderlust, and Gretchen Bohling Designs have been working diligently to thrive during COVID-19 and we want to acknowledge and support all of their hard work. Please contact Design if you have any questions.
Night Dive Swim
In 2018, Heather Brown launched her own brand, NIGHT DIVE SWIM, with a focus on sustainability and inclusivity. “NIGHT DIVE SWIM showcases only un-retouched photography, a range of models with different body types and shapes across all platforms, has extended sizing (and working to extend even further), uses biodegradable packaging for each piece and shipping, is ethically made, and all swimwear is created in regenerated nylon and recycled fibers from discarded fishing nets and nylon waste.” Heather’s brand has been sold at Aerie for the last two years and continues to grow
Wanderlust
Wanderlust has been owned and operated by Jennifer Coughenour for 6 years; 2021 will look much different than in the past after having to close her doors beginning of the year to help reduce overhead expenses. Jennifer still continues her dream with providing pop ups, wardrobe styling appointments and marketing services. Her passion and entrepreneurial drive continuously pushes herself along with her business to become the best it can be. People are the inspiration for everything she does. Without you, she wouldn't be able to do what she loves everyday. Giving back and spreading joy to others is what motivates her to never give up.
Gretchen Bohling
Designs In 2016 Gretchen launched her business "Gretchen Bohling Design" which is a fashion brand promoting ethical and sustainable design. At GBD she offers a private label collection of handmade to order garments, one-of-a-kind bespoke custom garments for clients hoping to have a truly unique piece, custom tailoring services for men and women ranging from basic alterations and mending to repurposing garments in a new way, and teaching private sewing lessons at her studio in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. Gretchen's mission at GBD is to provide the highest quality sustainably handmade apparel for her clients and to educate them on how to maintain an ethical wardrobe.
