Part Project Runway and part recyling, tonight's Trashy Fashion Show, sponsored by a recycling agency, will have you oohing and aahing over the inspired designs.
In the past, the young local designers who create fashion from recyclables have had audiences marveling over their beautiful, fun, and sometimes just quirky creations.
The fact that they've created them out of gum wrappers, or seatbelt straps, or plastic sheeting only adds to the fun--and sense of eco-chic.
EARLIER: Video of Trashy Fashion Show
The runway show, sponsored by the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (SWANCC) runs tonight, Thursday Nov. 15, at 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Chicago, 5300 W. Touhy, Skokie, in recognition of America Recycles Day.
More than 50 designers, as young as age 12, created 40 outfits from materials that were kept out of landfills.
They include repurposed textiles such as chef coats, prom dresses, t-shirts, graduation gowns, dog and pig food bags, pop tabs, tile samples, vhs tapes, a worn out umbrella, and more.
SWANCC representatives said the show celebrates reuse by giving designers an outlet to create a one-of-a-kind outfit and make a statement about the benefits of being resourceful. It also raises awareness to the public about the importance of reducing waste.
Member communities of SWANCC are Glenview, Northbrook, Arlington Heights, Park Ridge, Niles, Morton Grove, Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, Barrington, Lincolnwood, Palatine and Wheeling.
