Gayle De Angelis has sustainable fashon all tied up. 53678 Photo by Craig Wilson
By Kath Gannaway
SLOW fashion is the concept behind a competition designed to highlight ethical fashion.
Healesville boutique owner and fashion designer Jacinta Birchall is hosting the 9ine Lives competition which aims to find sustainable fashion.
Ms Birchall said fashion is one of the biggest culprits in terms of waste.
“I reckon if we stopped production of textiles right now, across the world, we would have enough to clothe the entire planet for the next 50 years,” she said.
Her 9ine Lives Principles is a code of conduct which she adheres to when she goes shopping for stock.
It includes where the garment was made, how far it has to travel, is it made from sustainable fibre, and under fair working conditions … a ‘slow fashion’ approach to clothing.
Warburton designer Gayle De Angelis plays her part in the recycle-reuse philosophy when it comes to creating garments for costume and for fashion.
Among other recycled and collectable materials she uses men’s ties to create unique garments.
“What inspires me about making wearable art from these materials is that it encourages ordinary people to express their own style and beauty in collaboration with the artist,” she said.
She thrives on the creative process and has embraced the 9ine Lives Competition for the opportunity is offers designers to showcase an alternative fashion philosophy.
Two of Australia’s most prominent designers Tiffany Treloar and Jenny Bannister are supporting the competition and will be available to mentor selected winners.
The competition closes on 30 September and details are available from the website www.blackcatboutique.com.au
