Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff
V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Fashion.
A Showcase of Eco-Conscious Fashion at Bristol Cathedral
In an effort to bring awareness to the environmental impact of the fashion industry, a unique event titled Fashion on Earth will be held at Bristol Cathedral. The sustainable fashion showcase seeks to inspire a deeper commitment to eco friendly practices in clothing design and consumption, set against artist Luke Jerram’s immersive exhibit Gaia: Our Home Planet. The event is organized by Sustainable Fashion Week (SFW) and will include a variety of activities such as a makers market, live poetry readings, music performances, and a community driven catwalk.
“We want attendees to walk away with a feeling that goes beyond information,” explained SFW founder Amelia Twine. “The evidence is growing that fashion practices are having a severe impact on the planet, and we’re inviting everyone to rethink their relationship with clothing and nature."
Unlike SFW’s regular events that focus on practical skills, clothing swaps, and educational talks, Fashion on Earth combines art, performance, and interactive displays to create a memorable experience. Lauren Reed, stylist and director of the event's community catwalk, shared the creative vision: "The theme for our runway draws from the state of our Earth’s soil and the regenerative practices needed to restore it. We’re showing that community action can drive significant change.”
Sustainable Design and Local Craftsmanship in Focus
The designers selected for the event prioritize eco-friendly practices by utilizing reclaimed textiles, certified organic cotton, and locally sourced wool from regenerative farming. Emma Hague of South West England Fibreshed highlighted the significance of hosting this event at Bristol Cathedral: "The gravitas of the cathedral amplifies our message, adding weight to the conversation around sustainable fashion while also serving as a space to celebrate progress."
Twine noted that while major fast fashion brands continue to expand, interest in sustainable fashion is growing rapidly, with a surge in second hand and recycled clothing. According to research by ThredUp, a leader in online thrifting, pre owned clothing sales are expected to surpass fast fashion sales by 2030.
A Community-Driven Runway for Change
In alignment with the event’s inclusive spirit, models on the runway will represent diverse community members, including those from Able Model Management, an agency dedicated to those who feel underrepresented in fashion. Makeup and styling will be provided by students from South Gloucestershire and Stroud College, offering a collaborative experience for emerging talent.
Fashion on Earth is set to take place at Bristol Cathedral on November 6, from 18:30 GMT, and promises to be an evening dedicated to reimagining fashion as a force for environmental good.
