Following Nadine’s murder at her home in December 2019, her sister Phoebe and mother, Claire, wanted to organise an event that incorporated her interests and passions, and her love of fashion.
Over 1,000 people attended the fashion show in total over the two nights, with a runway set up in the middle of the ball room, with seating on either side so guests could watch the models sashaying up and down the catwalk.
Nadine’s father David said the whole family are incredibly appreciative of all the support they have received from the local community, not only for the fashion show, but also for how they rallied around the family after their tragic loss of Nadine.
“We as a family are totally overwhelmed by all the support we have received from the local community. Even after five years, it’s a testament to just how highly everyone thought of Nadine.
“It was very emotional occasion but was well worth organising. Nadine would have loved the event as she would have modelled at different fashion shows local shops and boutiques would have organised.
“You could definitely feel Nadine’s presence. The fashion show really personified Nadine and everything she stood for.”
The Lotts received an outpouring of support for the event, with boutiques across Arklow and Gorey eager to play their part by donating clothes for the fashion show.
The models consisted of local members of the community and some of Nadine’s friends, while family members modelled for the bridal section of the show.
Established in memory of Nadine, The Nadine Lott Trust Fund was set up to help support Nadine’s daughter, Kya, throughout her life, while her mother Claire is a member of AdVIC (Advocates for Victims of Homicide) is a charity run by families bereaved by homicide, for families bereaved by homicide.
Other fundraisers to have already taken place include a successful golf tournament in 2022, while friends of Nadine made T-shirts and cup cakes.
David added: “We were delighted with all the support we received and can’t thank people enough, especially the committee who helped organise the fashion show. We are still tallying up the exact figure raised but we were definitely pleased with how both nights went. All the support we have received over the past five years has been overwhelming and there has been a real outpouring of emotion. People have been very kind and any events or fundraisers we have organised have received great support.”