If you’ve been paying attention to the fashion world, you’d know that sustainability on the runway is all the buzz. Cities like London and Copenhagen are leading the charge, proving that looking good and doing good for the planet can go hand in hand. Closer to home, the McLaren Vale community is making moves with its own take on eco-conscious style and fun.
On Saturday 31 May, the wine region is turning the spotlight on sustainable fashion with the return of Recycled Runway. This event is all about taking pre-loved, pre-owned, pre-worn and thrifted fashion and transforming it into something quirky, beautiful, and completely runway-worthy. Forget fast fashion – this is about creativity, and resourcefulness.
All images by Deb Saunders Photography
The event is the brainchild of the McLaren Vale Business and Tourism Association, She Sews, and Community Fleurieu Bendigo Bank. Think Project Runway meets environmental activism, held in one of South Australia’s most picturesque wine regions.
McLaren Vale Business and Tourism Association Chair, Megan Caldersmith, says the inaugural event in 2024 was a roaring success, with 150 tickets selling out fast.
“This year, we’ve increased capacity by 50 tickets, taking us to 200 seats, and we’re expecting another sell-out crowd!” says Megan.
“Fashion lovers, designers, stylists, and upcycling enthusiasts came together last year to showcase the power of creative sustainability. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with a diverse mix of talents proving that recycled fashion can be every bit as chic as high-end couture,” said Megan.
Building on that momentum, the 2025 edition is set to be even bigger, bolder, and greener.
Designers and fashion creatives keen to get involved can now register here in one of four categories with prizes up for grabs.
The challenge is to get participants to to rethink, redesign, and reimagine clothes and accessories into one-of-a-kind pieces. Each look will then be strutted down the catwalk, proving that recycled and up cycled fashion is anything but dull.
For those keen to witness this incredible fusion of sustainability and style, tickets go on sale on 12 March via the official Facebook Events page.
Sustainable fashion is no longer just a niche movement – it’s a revolution that’s gaining traction globally. Major fashion capitals are taking serious steps towards eco-friendly initiatives, setting sustainability targets, and ensuring brands use more recycled and upcycled materials. Recycled Runway McLaren Vale is one of South Australia’s events that encourages creativity while reducing waste.
“It’s so heartening to see people moving towards upcycled fashion and steering away from fast fashion,” says Megan.
“I see so many parcels arriving at the post office, full of cheap, mass-produced clothing that often gets tossed after just one wear. It’s time to rethink how we consume fashion.”
The fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters on the planet, but events like Recycled Runway prove that looking fabulous doesn’t have to come at the environment’s expense. Whether you’re a designer, a fashion-lover, or just looking for an excuse to dress up and enjoy a fabulous evening, this is your chance to be part of something meaningful.
Get involved. Dig out your best thrifted or up cycled find, embrace the sustainable fashion movement, and prepare for an evening that’s as stylish as it is inspiring.
It’s set to be a night of creativity, innovation, and eco-conscious glamour – and you won’t want to miss it.
WHEN: Saturday, 31 May from 6 pm to 10 pm
WHERE: Wirra Wirra, MCLAREN VALE
TICKETS: Don’t delay in purchasing tickets, Recycled Runway will sell out! Tickets on sale from 12 March via the official Facebook Events page.
More News
