Sustainable Fashion Event To Launch In Belfast Next Week

As consumers grow more conscious of the ethics behind their purchases, a team of Ulster University students are launching a guilt-free fashion festival in Belfast next week.

The project, in collaboration with Belfast City Council, will include an exhibition, pop up shop, film screening and masterclass, all aimed at getting sustainable and up cycled clothing back on trend.

The two-day event will kick off on Thursday 14 March on The Barge at Lanyon Quay with an exhibition of cutting-edge sustainable fashion designs from the students, followed by a screening of the groundbreaking film "The True Cost: Who pays the price for our fashion?". Described as "A portrait of exploitation" by The New York Times, the documentary tackles fast fashion head on and challenges the consumer to think twice about their shopping habits.

Councillor Kate Nicholl, Chair of the People and Communities Committee in Belfast City Council said: "I am delighted that Belfast City Council is part of this exciting and worthwhile festival. The Belfast Agenda aims to create a vibrant and sustainable city and 'greening' the fashion industry and shaping consumer habits will contribute greatly to achieving this aim. It's also an excellent way for our residents to learn more about the fashion industry while helping the environment, and I'd encourage everyone to come along to the events, have fun and become inspired to become more ethical shoppers."

On Friday 15 and Saturday 16 March, Ormeau Bowling Pavilion at Park Road will be converted into the 'Matters Market' from 10am- 5pm each day. This sustainable fashion flea market will have a huge range of vintage and barely worn items selected by fashion and textile students on sale as well as the opportunity to have your favourite tired outfit brought back to life. There will also be some original creations from the student designers' own upcycled portfolios to choose from.

Maureen Collins, course director MSc Fashion and Textile Retail Management at Ulster University said: "Retailing and fashion retailing, in particular, has been under scrutiny lately and thankfully changes are starting to happen. Our students are committed to a fun, fabulous and sustainable future for fashion and wanted to work with Belfast City Council to ensure that we are part of a movement to encourage grassroots change in consumer behaviour. It will also be a lot of fun and the chance to bag some original fashion items at great prices."



(JG/CM)