Cristal Cherry Lebel

Deep Sea Diva

98% reclaimed material
I created this piece as part of a fundraiser fashion show for the Ocean Legacy Foundation by Future Oceans Canada. With the goal of raising awareness to the damage caused by plastic pollution, I utilized reclaimed waste collected during a clean up expedition from the shoreline of Victoria, Bc. Rope was tediously unravelled and knit into a form fitting bodice. The skirt was constructed using a plastic tablecloth and a tattered salt worn tarp, cut to resemble the waves of the ocean. A large sheet of plastic, possibly a mattress cover, was used as an underskirt to add structure and fullness to the gown. A large collection of recycled bubble wrap was then layered onto the underskirt acting as a seafoamesque ‘crinoline’. To accessorize this ensemble, pop tabs have been crafted into a belt and a matching necklace, and the bodice is detailed with small gold gilded straw beads. What is an outfit without a handbag? A juice jug, fishnet, a chunk of garden hose and a pearlized golf ball made up the perfect carrier to display the endless ocean weathered micro plastics. Ocean conservation is a cause that is near and dear to my heart, and it meant so much to create something beautiful out of something so devastating.

Enchanted

90% reclaimed material 

This dress was a true labour of love. It effortlessly and organically came together to create this romantic and enchanted gown. This feminine bodice was sculpted using a table runner, removable liners from an old bikini and fabric from a second hand camisole. The skirt is made of a pair of curtains I found at Value Village, the crinoline cut out of my 14 year old grad dress and leftover lining from my design school kit. For an extra touch of luxury, gorgeous satin ribbon was used for the straps and the oh so important bow! When true passion is in the mix, the results are beautiful.

Photography: Cristal Cherry-LeBel
Model: Ashley Weissberg
HMUA: Ivonne Arsenault MUA, and Michelle Suffolk Walsh HMUA

Cristal Cherry Lebel can be contacted at Instagram @designbymisscherry