Sustainable Textiles

The fashion industry is estimated to be responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions – more than international flights and maritime shipping combined!

Our Sustainable Textiles programme consists of events and competitions to help better connect you to the clothes you wear and understand their impact on the planet.

Addressing textile waste generated by the fashion sector is crucial, given the alarming surge in clothing inundating our landfills. The proliferation of fast fashion has flooded markets with inexpensive trendy attire, resulting in overstuffed closets and yearly spring clearouts. While decluttering feels satisfying, opshops can’t accommodate the magnitude of clothes we donate, with a growing proportion being poor quality and ending up in landfill. So it’s essential to consider the fate of these garments and strategize ways to prevent the issue from arising in the initial stages. Join us as we explore these issues and provide solutions on a personal level with our Sustainable Textiles programme.

We’re working on our 2025 programme but check out the 2024 programme below!

48-hour Second-hand Fashion Competition – The only time fast fashion is encouraged!

In July 2024 we held the 48-Hour Second-hand Fashion Competition! Contestants used garments destined for landfill to create an upcycled ready-to-wear outfit in just 48 hours!

The 2024 theme was ‘My Winter Wardrobe’, where contestants brought to life their vision for the perfect winter outfit. From cozy ensembles for chilly nights indoors, to workwear and trendy winter looks, designers transformed discarded clothing into stylish winter outfits that reflected their own personal flair.

The two categories for the 48-Hour Second-hand Fashion Competition are the high school category and the open category.