By Esther Lauaki
Clothing made from recycled materials, paired with upcycled shoes, is at the heart of Gisborne designer Megan Taylor’s collection, which will be on show during Melbourne Fashion Week.
Four garments from Ms Taylor’s Art is History collection will feature in the Rags to Runway: Great Southern Style fashion show tonight (September 4) in North Melbourne.
In line with this year’s theme, Great Southern Style, the show’s designs will be inspired by the Australian landscape, flora and fauna, indigenous culture and iconic homegrown fashion designers past and present.
The show will include designs using recycled garments donated by Australian Red Cross.
One of the pieces Ms Taylor will showcase is a dress inspired by Melbourne’s laneways and made of recycled upholstery fabric.
“I used all recycled fabrics for my garments and some organic cottons,” she said.
“All the shoes in my collection are from the Australian Red Cross op shops.”
The 22-year-old, a recent fashion design graduate from Kangan Institute, is hoping to gain exposure and experience through the show.
“I’m really hoping that it gives me more opportunities to get my name out there and learn from others,” she said. “I’d really like to work as a design assistant for now.”
Kangan Institute chief executive Trevor Schwenke said the show highlighted a philosophy of reduce, reuse and recycle.
“We are proud to join hands with Australian Red Cross to work towards a sustainable fashion future,” Mr Schwenke said.
“Our Rags to Runway program prepares our students for dynamic careers where they can make positive and responsible contributions to the fashion industry as a whole.
“This year’s fashion show will showcase our students’ skills and creativity, and hopefully inspire our communities to reconsider upcycling as a stylish and sustainable fashion alternative.”
