EcoFashion Show
The EcoFashion Show showcases designs made by SCU community members from upcycled clothing or waste materials. This fun event is an opportunity to consider the environmental impact of the fashion industry and learn about sustainable solutions!
2019 models and designers. Photo by Chuck Barry.
A design from the 2017 show. Photo by Joanne Lee.
A makeup artist from the 2017 show. Photo by Joanne Lee.
A look from the 2016 show.
A designer and model from the 2017 show. Photo by Joanne Lee.
SCU students, alumni, staff, and faculty are invited to create pieces that are both fashionable and durable (can be worn again or recycled completely after the show). No money should be spent on this project, so designers can repurpose clothing items or, if needed, use materials that would otherwise go to the landfill.
During the show, a panel of speakers from the sustainable fashion industry will share their insights and answer questions. This allows attendees to explore their interests in a career in the industry and learn from leaders who have been there!
Frequently Asked Questions
The EcoFashion Show was started in 2011 by Michelle Tang ('13) to educate about the impact of the fashion industry and promote more sustainable choices (reuse, upcycling, repurposing what we already have). The goal is to highlight creative reuse and the importance of mindful consumption.
Not at all! We're hosting Maker Night workshops throughout the Winter Quarter. At these optional sessions, participants can learn new techniques, bring materials, and get help with sketches or inspiration. No sewing or design experience is required! Designers are also welcome to start on their creations before these sessions.
Clothing from your own closet, unwanted fabric scraps, and thrifted or secondhand items are all possible sources! Designers are highly encouraged to utilize clothing from Bucky's Closet.
You may also create outfits from fully recyclable materials (i.e. paper, plastic, metal, etc.), but we are discouraging this option because the goal is not to create disposable outfits but instead durable new styles that someone would want to wear again!
Of course! Feel free to contribute a design on your own, with a partner, or as part of a team.
Designers are welcome to model their own designs! However, we strongly recommend that you have one of the MCs or a friend introduce your design on your behalf before you walk out on the runway!
Designer’s pieces will be judged on the following criteria:
- Wearability based on the materials used
- Craftsmanship and overall aesthetic
- Storytelling: Sharing a sustainable motive or inspiration behind the piece
*Note: buying of new materials is NOT allowed in any piece; buying used materials from thrift/second-hand stores IS allowed
We will have five winning designs:
- Versatility (highest score in wearability)
- High-End Fashion (highest score in craftsmanship)
- Imaginative (highest score in storytelling)
- Best in show (highest overall score)
- Fan favorite
Designers may enter pieces they have already created under two conditions:
1) It has not been entered in a previous SCU EcoFashion Show, and
2) It was made entirely with upcycled/thrifted materials.