Bra-ha-ha gets a reconstruction for 2020

Winning designs in Hampton Roads’ biggest fashion art contest got their big reveal during a new format for 2020: Bra-ha-ha Reconstructed: Virtual Awards Show. Instead of the typical large gala, the program was recorded before a limited audience and posted Friday to Bra-ha-ha’s Facebook page.

The 13th Bra-ha-ha included nearly 80 creations awarded among 11 categories, including several new ones. Models, who were all breast cancer survivors, strutted the runway in the winning designs, but with an additional adornment this year: a protective mask. The grand prize winner received $1,000.

In a year with so much heaviness, Bra-ha-ha’s pivot to a streamlined format allowed the fundraiser to carry on at a time when its fun approach to a serious matter is much needed. Bra-ha-ha includes a series of events put on by Chesapeake Regional Health Foundation to support breast health care for patients in need. It includes a 5K run, an auction, mini fashion shows and a culminating awards show followed by a weeklong exhibit of all the entries. The contest is designed to allow participants to reflect everything from humor to sentimentality in the theme of their designs. This writer has been a judge practically since Bra-ha-ha’s inception, and majority of the entries seemed more highly involved than previous cycles. Maybe it was because of COVID-19 and the opportunity to ponder more deeply on matters of well-being as a creative outlet.

In any case, here are the winners. Inspirations, as submitted to Bra-ha-ha by the contestants, are included with the first four categories. The awards presentation can be seen on Bra-ha-ha’s Facebook page, and the bras will be on display at Lynnhaven Mall in Virginia Beach from Nov. 3 to Nov. 10. More information about Bra-ha-ha can be found at brahaha.org.

GRAND PRIZE: Fighting the Injustice of Cancer

Bra designers: Nancy Parr, Amy Floriano and Stephanie Pass of the city of Chesapeake’s Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office

Inspiration: We honor and remember all the women who awoke the dragon warrior inside us all to fight against the injustice of cancer. All women must have equal access to mammograms and breast health care. The women whose names are on the metal plates inspired and continue to inspire girls and women everywhere. We are all Dragon Warriors fighting for ourselves and others.

MOST CREATIVE: No Bugs in the Jugs

Bra designer: Darlene Groves and Marcia Wilkins of Chesapeake Regional Surgical Specialists

BEST CRAFTSMANSHIP: Don’t Koi Around with Cancer

Bra designer: Lisa Cardona of Chesapeake

BEST DECADE INSPIRED: Boob Tube

Bra designer: Susan Jutras of Newport News

Inspiration: Stay tuned to your beast health. Report to your screening station for a yearly mammogram. If stormy weather is in the forecast channel your inner strength and dial into your network of support throughout the episode. Know you are a superstar!

BEST HOLIDAY OR SEASONAL INSPIRED: Beetleboobs

Bra designer: Cristina Stiller of Chesapeake

BEST BEACH OR ISLAND INSPIRED: What’s Inside?

Bra designer: Susan Bowyer and BJ Watson of Virginia Beach

BEST SPORTS INSPIRED: Kettlebell Strong

Bra designer: Elsie Baker of Chesapeake and the Great Bridge Woman’s Club

BEST SCHOOL ENTRY: Fight Like a Lil’Hawk

Bra designer: Angel Abbott of Southeastern Elementary, Chesapeake

BEST DIGITAL BRA ENTRY: Time is Priceless

Bra designer: Kendal Whitaker of Chesapeake

BEST YOUTH ENTRY BRA (13 & UNDER): Give Thanks Everyday

Bra designer: Jada Langkil of Chesapeake