Alice Bowen-Churchill, a 43-year-old designer from Bristol, described it as a “dream come true” to see her unique creation, a dress made from discarded festival tents, showcased at London Fashion Week. The blue and green gown was crafted from tents left behind at UK festivals last summer, including Glastonbury, and worn by model and actress Eunice Olumide.
Bowen-Churchill’s dress was not just a fashion statement, but also a collaborative effort, with festival-goers invited to sew messages into the lining of the gown. “Using tent material was key to help people think differently about waste and its potential,” she explained.
The dress, composed of two tents complete with guy ropes, hooks, rings, and a second-hand anorak jacket, debuted at Oxfam’s Style for Change Catwalk on 12 September. Its design aimed to emphasize the need for a more sustainable approach to fashion.
“There was a time when second-hand clothes were considered of lesser quality, but that’s simply not true,” Bowen-Churchill said. “It’s about encouraging people to rethink their buying habits and consider alternatives, whether it’s for everyday wear or something special.”
After nearly a month of work, Bowen-Churchill was thrilled to see her dress open the show. “It felt like such a special moment,” she said, “and I was incredibly proud of what we had achieved.”
Also participating in the event was Dragon’s Den star Deborah Meaden, who made her catwalk debut in second-hand designer vintage clothing. Meaden highlighted the importance of sustainable fashion, saying, “We know the fashion industry has a significant impact on our planet, which is why conversations about sustainable clothing are so crucial.”
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