Please share a bit about Sustainable Couture?
We are a group of designers, most of us living in Alice Springs, who have been inspired and taught by our grandmothers and mothers and are committed to promoting and creating wearable sustainable fashion. We have just celebrated our 10th Anniversary.
Where do your find inspiration for new work?
Ethereal vibrant contrasting colours, abstract patterns and ancient cultures of the desert landscape shape the defining character of Sustainable Couture fashion. Our designers are guided by Sustainable Couture’s commitment to providing unique, stylish and sustainable fashion throughout the creative design process.
Left - Franca Frederikson (2nd from left) her designs. Right - Philomena Hali (middle)
What materials do you work with – organic, reclaimed, etc.?
The unique Sustainable Couture range has been crafted from pre-loved clothing, natural fabric and other materials sourced from op shops, factory seconds, and tip shops.
How does Sustainable couture help educate the public on sustainable fashion?
Through mentoring programs, artists’ walks, fashion shows and workshops, our designers are committed to educating youth and the general public on the art and joy of creating new fashion from something that may have been destined for landfill.
Left-Philomena Hali (2nd from left) and her designs. Right-Carmel Ryan (on left) and her designs
How do you help customers understand the higher cost of sustainable garments when they are so inundated with sweat shop-produced cheap merchandise?
Our customers value the unique products that have been upcycled and redesigned by the Sustainable Couture designers and understand the need to reduce waste and also respect their social conscience preferring to support local artisans and not sweatshops.
Left-Sarah Hill (2nd from left) and her designs. Right-Marg Johnson (2nd from left) and her designs.
What can we look forward to seeing on the runway at Eco Fashion Week Australia 2018?
The theme for this year’s range is the ‘Edge of Centre’. Expect an eclectic collection of day wear crafted from natural fabrics (quality linens, printed cottons, and indigo-dyed silks) that are designed to capture the spirit of the desert with its contrasting colours, abstract patterns and the essence of ancient cultures. Preloved quality clothes and fabrics, simple lines, and quirky makeovers and embellishments give homage to prior fashion and fabrics. All pieces are locally sourced and crafted.
Anything else you would like readers to know?
Sustainable Couture holds an annual sell-out fashion show under the wings of an old Royal Flying Doctor plane in the Connelan Aviation hangar followed by a pop up shop and marketplace.
Left-Jen Standish-White’s designs. Right-Jen Standish-White
Links -
Website - www.sustainable-couture.com/
Facebook - www.facebook.com/Sustainable-Couture-Alice-Springs-120068374673905/