A lingerie designer whose ethical fashion range includes designs for women recovering from breast cancer surgery is a finalist in this year’s Leicestershire Innovation Awards.
De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) Contour Fashion graduate Roshni Desai is one of three finalists in the Innovation in the Creative Industries category, alongside Leicester sustainable fashion company Boy Wonder and Nevil Holt Opera House, near Market Harborough.
The Innovation Awards, which take place on Thursday (24 FEB), recognise and reward the best and brightest new ideas coming out of businesses based in the city and county.
Roshni said: “I am really overwhelmed that I have been selected as a finalist in the Creative Industries Category. The past year has proven to be quite a challenge for me and my business and I am grateful that I have the opportunity to tell my story to more people. I never thought I would be shortlisted let alone make it as a finalist for this award.”
Roshni’s bra collections - which can be found here - are designed to be adjustable, so women can alter the cup sizes up or down. Breasts change size and shape throughout the menstrual cycle and over time, so bra sizes can change regularly.
Her adjustable designs reduce the need for women to buy multiple sizes, cutting down on waste. Instead hand-dyeing them at home using non-toxic dyes and being in full control of the disposal of the dye and how much dye is used to create the garments.
Included in her collection, Roshni has designed a special bralette for women who have undergone breast cancer surgery, something close to her heart, and has supported fundraising for Hope Against Cancer.
“My bralette style design was designed in mind for breast cancer survivors. It was inspired by a family member who felt extremely uncomfortable finding nice lingerie to suit her after she’d had multiple operations,” she said.
“The only bra she could wear was full cup. The bralette I have created is fully lined with mesh for comfort, has no wires in so it’s very flexible for the wearer and provides support for them whilst they’re recovering.
“I wanted to design something very pretty yet practical for them.”
For the past year, Roshni has been part of the DMU Crucible programme, which provides personalised support for graduates with entrepreneurial ideas.
Percy Emmett, who runs The Crucible, said: “Roshni has been an absolute star since she began on The Crucible and we are so proud of her and all she’s achieved.
“We will all be cheering for her on Thursday and wish her the very best of luck.”
Posted on Monday 21 February 2022