We now purchase 60% more clothing than we did 20 years ago. Unfortunately, most of these textiles - about 85% - end up in landfills.
As part of the circular fashion philosophy, we aim to encourage design practices to reduce waste and extend the life of clothing and textiles. Cultivate sustainable practices including upcycling, the process of taking old or discarded garments and materials and transforming them into new, fashionable, and wearable items.
Students are required to complete the below applications and include before and after photos of their design.
Faculty Contact:
Elaine Chatwood: St. Clair College - Fashion Design Professor
Email: echatwood@stclaircollege.ca | Phone: 519 972 2727 ext. 4020
Competition Criteria:
- Design, sew & construct 1 original outfit using upcycled garments, fabrics or materials.
- Source materials from thrift shops, home, closets, donations, dead stock, nature, etc.
- Outfit must be able to be worn on a model and presented on a runway.
Submission:
- Due Date: March 2, 2026
- Complete the application below & submit 5 photos
- Use smartphone or camera to upload photos
- Photos must show the design worn by a live model or on a dress form, using a plain background, with good lighting.
- Photos will be reviewed by the judging panel and may be used to promote your design, the competition or the Atelier Fashion Show.
Submission:
PHOTOGRAPHY SHOT LIST includes before and after photos of the following:
- Original garments/items and materials used to upcycle into new design
- Full-length front view of new design on a model or dress form
- Full-length back view of new design on a model or dress form
- Side view of new design on a model or dress form
- Close-up shot of details of new design on a model or dress form
Eligibility:
- must be a currently enrolled student in High School
Top 3 Winning Designs:
- Will be selected by the judging panel by March 16, 2026 (St. Clair College Fashion Design faculty).
- Top 3 students will be contacted via email by Elaine Chatwood
- Top 3 designs will be showcased on the runway at the St. Clair College Atelier Fashion Show on April 18, 2026 @ St. Clair College
- 1st Prize: 2 complimentary VIP tickets and reserved front row seating at the Fashion Show
- 2nd and 3rd Prizes: 2 complimentary general tickets to the Fashion Show
