Imagine a world where face masks, once a symbol of a global pandemic, become a high-fashion statement of resilience and sustainability, where students transform waste materials into fashion pieces that could grace the catwalks of Milan, Paris or London. This vision came to life recently at the "A Green Future" event at Mitsui Outlet Park KLIA Sepang (MOP). In this event, fashion met innovation, with a focus on sustainability.
One event highlight was the “Recycled Fashion” Green Fashion Show. Final year students from Limkokwing University, pursuing the Bachelor of Arts (Hon) in Fashion Design, displayed their ingenuity by creating fashion pieces from recycled materials.
The students showcased their designs, which were visually stunning and carried a profound message about the importance of sustainability in fashion.
One standout was Darin Atkaa, a Syrian student, who brilliantly used discarded face masks in her design. She explained her inspiration came from the Covid-19 pandemic, saying, “I want to reflect on all the feelings that I have been going through, all the exaggerated feelings of isolation, of fear. And even after the lockdown ended, we needed a lot of courage to return to our normal life.”
Through her designs, Darin demonstrated that fashion doesn’t have to be frivolous or wasteful but can be a platform for important messages about sustainability and resilience. Her innovative approach turned an everyday object into a symbol of our shared experience. For her exceptional design, she was awarded the first prize.
While Darin was thrilled with her first-place win, she quickly acknowledged her classmates’ hard work. “We’ve all poured our hearts into this for months. It’s been an incredible opportunity for all of us,” she shared.
There were other notable contributions as well. Song Yafeng, a student from China, crafted a piece inspired by the Wheel of Fortune using old tarot cards, representing life’s cycles and struggles. In contrast, Keven Hii Tiong Yik from Malaysia cleverly used a floor mat to illustrate the interconnectedness of life.
These budding designers understand their role in tackling the fashion industry’s environmental impact. They are keen on designing fashion pieces that aren’t just appealing to the eye and sustainable. They hope that their creations will inspire consumers to make more eco-conscious choices. Darin said, “This design is just a small step towards encouraging people to be more mindful of their fashion choices.”
The students also expressed how valuable it was to collaborate with industry professionals. They believe these partnerships provide critical exposure and constructive feedback, preparing them for future careers. The feedback from these industry experts was another significant aspect of these collaborations. The professionals’ inputs were not just critiques; they were insightful observations, suggestions, and guidance that gave the students a clearer picture of their strengths and areas for improvement.
“A Green Future” celebrated creativity, sustainability, and a vision for a greener future. It demonstrated that fashion could be stylish and eco-friendly, a testament to the commitment of the new generation of designers. It was a milestone event for these young designers, making a strong case for a future where fashion is not just about looking good but being good for the planet. Because in today’s world, sustainability is more than a trend — it’s a necessity.
