TALENTED local fashion designers showcased their creative skills on Saturday night to support vital charity service ac.care.
An array of 27 unique outfits, formed from up-cycled clothing, were on display for a crowd of 180 at this year’s Recycled Runway event held at the Anglican Church.
The initiative is now in its fourth year and is aimed at encouraging the community to recycle by converting discarded garments delivered to opportunity shops into fashionable outfits.
Judges on the evening were local fashion gurus Kellie Nobes and Keith Hamilton, who had the difficult task of selecting award winners.
“I was blown away with the creativity on display tonight, and I want to congratulate all those who entered as it was such a successful event,” Ms Nobes said.
Mr Hamilton said deciding on winners was a hard process as there was an overwhelming amount of talent.
“It was awesome to see the transformations from what they were originally given,” Mr Hamilton said.
“We have some serious talent here in Mount Gambier who have great foundations to turn into great designers.”
Event coordinator Trudy-Anne Doyle said she was amazed with the quality of outfits designed and pleased with the impressive turn out for the event.
“It was great to see young designers involved as we had eight high school entries,” Ms Doyle said.
She said the visions of the designs were outstanding with the proceeds made from the evening going towards supporting the city’s ac.care homelessness and domestic violence facilities.
“These are essential care facilities and it was fantastic to see all those involved and attendees showing their support,” Ms Doyle said.
Attendees on the night were also able to donate to the Project Uplift cause, aimed at recycling bras for women in need.
Award winners on the night included Janine Norman, who was awarded most creative outfit, while best hat or hair accessory was awarded to Maddi Bird.
The minimal sewing and alternative techniques award was presented to Ali Auld and Rebecca Yoannidis won the technical sewing award.
Designer Espoir Alpha won the best men’s outfit award and designer Amber Batten was awarded the people’s choice award.
The overall winner in the open category was Karen Gosden and the overall winner in the high school category was Mackenzie Richards-Fennell.
The event coincided with National Op Shop Week, which raises awareness of opportunity shops and the roles they play supporting charities in the community.
