Envirohub Bay of Plenty is on a mission to link fashion and sustainability. They are running a 48-hour Second-hand Fashion Competition in 2024, where participants are challenged to create a wearable outfit from clothes that were destined for the landfill.
The competition aims to make people more aware of the environmental impact of their clothing choices. According to Envirohub BOP project coordinator Milly McHardie, around 6000 shipping containers of textile waste are sent to New Zealand’s landfills each year. The competition hopes to show that upcycling clothes, giving them a new life instead of throwing them away, can be a part of everyday life.
People can register for the competition on the Envirohub BOP website by July 5. The competition starts on July 6, when participants will choose clothing from Turning Point Trust, a charity that receives unsold clothes from thrift stores. Participants will then have 48 hours to transform these clothes into a new outfit.
The competition is divided into two categories: High School students and Open. The theme for this year is “My Winter Wardrobe”. Participants are encouraged to design their ideal winter outfit, whether it’s for staying warm at home or for going out.
The finished outfits must be submitted to Envirohub BOP by July 8. A fashion show and awards ceremony will take place on July 27 at The Cargo Shed in Tauranga City. Entries will be judged on wearability, construction, creativity, adherence to the theme, and sustainability.
Cash prizes are available in both categories, with the winners receiving $250 and the runners-up $100. After the show, the outfits will be displayed to the public to further promote the message of sustainable fashion.
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