Dove Hospice & Wellness, in collaboration with the AUT Fashion Department, and sponsored by Regal Drycleaners, Drapers Fabrics, Vanish and the Cut Above Academy, excitingly held its first event ‘Fashion Hacktivism’ event this May. The aim of this unique event was to showcase AUT’s ‘Fashion Hacktivism goes Big’ upcycling project, which, in partnership with Dove, focused on giving damaged second-hand clothing a new lease on life.
This event took place in the picturesque Kings Plant Barn café, and promising an array of exciting activities. The event will kick off with a captivating fashion show featuring the upcycled creations of AUT students, giving attendees the opportunity to witness the creative designs of upcycling first-hand. Following the fashion show, renowned stylist Jess Raffills from The Finders Life led an interactive styling workshop, sharing valuable tips on how to choose well and buy second-hand clothing that will last.
Jess from The Finders Life passionately emphasised, “I believe consuming consciously doesn’t need to compromise how you express yourself aesthetically and does not have to cost the earth. I love working with people to help them discover how to shop for their shape, lifestyle, and budgets more successfully, all with a sustainable spin!”
To further support Dove’s fundraising efforts, attendees had the change to peruse a boutique preloved clothing sale will be available, giving the opportunity to find unique and eco-friendly additions to their wardrobe.
Amy Conlon, Marketing, E-Comm, and Communications Manager at Dove, expresses her enthusiasm, stating, “This upcycling project with AUT gives an opportunity to inspire creativity and to encourage students to embrace a more circular design model. We are really looking forward to seeing what the students create.”
Amy further highlights the meaningful impact of supporting local charities through second-hand shopping, explaining, “In our case, our attendees will be supporting people for whom a cure or remission is expected with our ‘return to wellness’ programs, as well as patients whose illness is no longer curable.”
Lisa McEwan, Senior Lecturer at AUT across Fashion Design & Design for Sustainability, spoke to emphasise the significance of upcycling in combating the overconsumption of fast fashion products, “Our creative responses give a distinct nod to the former life of the upcycled clothing, making the final result not only a unique fashion piece but also a conversation starter about clothing consumption and sustainability.”
We hope to hold this event again in the future, and invite you to join us to celebrate and promote conscious consumerism, supporting our local charity organisation and encouraging a more sustainable approach to fashion. Together, we can make a difference in our community and contribute to a more sustainable future.
