UP-CYCLING CLOTHES: Models Laura and Bianca from Oxley High School strut their stuff on the the catwalk in designer and vintage classics showing the crowd what ‘up-cycling’ is all about.
LOVERS of vintage and preloved clothes came away from a fashion show with a difference in Tamworth last weekend.
With 300 ladies and the odd fashion-conscious gent on the lookout for spring season inspiration, the Lifeline One Of a Kind Spring Fashion Parade transformed the back room of the Longyard Hotel into catwalk central on Saturday night.
Guests piled in early in their best dresses and heels to sit in the sought- after front row seats and seek out goodie bags before the show began, fashionably late at 7.10pm.
Organiser Emily Honess said the show had built on the success of last year’s parade and the making of a few future catwalk stars.
“Everyone just smash-ed it on the night and judging by the audience reaction, I think some of our models may have uncovered some hidden talents,” she said.
Specially selected to reflect all shapes and sizes, the 14 everyday models showed the audience that price doesn’t have to be a factor in your wardrobe for those who love to shop.
Up-cycling is all the rage for the budget-conscious, which sees a garment transformed into something “new” with a little embellishment or re-styling.
Labels Lynda Ann, GAB and Villi Villette showed collections on the night, along with a special selection of the best off-the-racks styles of Tamworth charity store Lifeline.
Thousands of pre-loved garments are donated each year to the charity, with the parade proving that one person’s trash is someone else’s eclectic treasure.
Ms Honess said the show’s purpose was also to engage people about environmental issues surrounding the clothing industry and prove that secondhand doesn’t need to be second class.
Markets from Lifeline and Tamworth designer Lynda Ann gave bargain hunters the opportunity to take their inspiration straight from the catwalk, with guests taking advantage of the show interval to stock up on “new” bargains.
Looks ranged from summer floral dresses to sailor inspired jackets and lace layered skirts to bright block print men’s shirts.
A cream bridal inspired layered dress by Tamworth designer Lynda Ann was the show standout, drawing the most appreciation from the front row fashion mavens.
Special guest and National Retail Manager for Lifeline Joe Magro said he was in awe of Life-line Tamworth’s Emily Honess’s talent.
