BTVI Instructor Takes Bahamian Heritage to New York Fashion Week

Kathy Pinder
BTVI Instructor and Fashion Designer

In a spectacular collection rooted in ancestry and artistry, Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) Fashion Design instructor, Kathy Pinder, presented a chic ensemble with a distinctly Bahamian aesthetic at the acclaimed New York Fashion Week 2026. The Fashion Designer’s monochromatic black and white palette collection featured elevated printed textiles, bearing familiar motifs and sculptural embellishments, such as Bahamian fruit, foul and straw crafts, beautifully blending fashion and fine art. The experience was the opportunity of a lifetime that she has now crossed off her bucket list. Ms. Pinder applied online in response to an open call by Flying Solo, a prominent fashion incubator for independent designers. Her fashion portfolio was reviewed by a selection committee that ultimately chose her for this prestigious opportunity – “a surreal and deeply fulfilling moment,” said Ms. Pinder.

Ms. Pinder’s experience at New York Fashion Week will serve as an inspiration for her Fashion students, especially, alumna, Oranique Hamilton and student, Britney Miller, who accompanied her to the showcase.
“As a BTVI instructor, I am passionate about nurturing the next generation of designers. I genuinely love teaching and mentoring young creatives. I am committed to doing everything within my power to guide and promote our students as they work toward becoming successful fashion designers,” she said.

Ms. Pinder collaborated with her sister, and artist, Kendra Foroup, to develop original textiles for the collection. Named in honour of their parents, Olive and Earl, the Olive Earl Collection featured a chicken print, her Pinder’s signature sugar apple print and a Bahamian straw doll print. “After clearing out our father’s home, we discovered numerous sketches he had created, many of which featured chickens. To commemorate him, we incorporated the chicken motif throughout the collection,” revealed Pinder. The sisters’ mother also raised chickens in their childhood, infusing a simple chicken motif with ancestral significance. They also named the straw doll print Olive after their mother. The outfits were accessorised with large chicken sculptures, 3D printed sugar apples and authentic Bahamian straw hats and slippers, curated by the artistic duo. A vibrant red scarlet plum necklace perfectly complimented an elegant black and white gown, decorated with chicken motifs. “The red provided a powerful focal point against the neutral base and enhanced the visual drama of the presentation,” said Ms. Pinder.

These fine details harmonised with the stylish silhouettes to sing the songs of Pinder’s cherished childhood.
According to Ms. Pinder, the models, comprised of various ethnicities, were “very receptive” to wearing the collection. She also spoke highly of the Flying Solo team, who flawlessly managed fittings, steaming, garment preparation and overall coordination. During fittings, the collection received overwhelming positive feedback and there was consistent praise from industry professionals,” she stated.
As Ms. Pinder reflected on her New York Fashion Week exposure, she basked in the opportunity to fuse her creativity and practical designs that are deeply rooted in culture and family heritage. For her, the moment marked a defining milestone in her evolving journey as a fashion designer.