This week, the city’s proud history as the “Shirt-Making Capital” of the world was brought back to life in a fresh and exciting way during Sustainable Fashion Week.
The Sustainable Fashion – Reimagined Shirts competition, an innovative challenge for young people aged 11-23, saw participants breathing new life into old, unwanted shirts, turning them into wearable works of art that celebrated sustainability and creativity.
A total of 19 entries flooded in from schools and from our own students within the College, showcasing an impressive array of innovative designs. Each team, made up of no more than four members, had the task of transforming discarded garments into one-of-a-kind creations that honoured both Derry’s textile heritage and the modern-day need for sustainable fashion.
The calibre of the designs was exceptional, with students embracing the challenge not only as an artistic expression but as a chance to educate themselves on the importance of reducing waste and rethinking how we consume fashion. From reimagined shirts turned into avant-garde jackets to intricate designed pieces, the competition was a powerful reminder of the ingenuity and creativity that young people can bring to the issue of sustainability.
The designs were showcased at our inaugural Sustainable Fashion Show on Tuesday 25th February, where the final judging took place. The event was a true celebration of both fashion and environmental responsibility, with experts in the fields of fashion and sustainability coming together to praise the talent on display.
A special thank you to our esteemed panel of judges (Deirdre Williams and Caroline McGuinness-Brooks) whose expertise and commitment to sustainability helped guide the event’s success. Their insights were invaluable in choosing the winning designs, and their feedback will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of fashion innovators.
Congratulations to everyone that participated and well done to our Overall Competition Winner this year, Errigal College Letterkenny. All of our category winners including St Cecilia's College and our own NWRC students.
Francine Moran, Principal Lecturer in Sustainability and Social Responsibility, spoke at the event, reflecting on the competition's impact:
"What was truly inspiring about this competition was seeing how the students embraced sustainability not just as a theme, but as a core value. They understood that fashion can be a powerful tool for positive change, and they used this opportunity to reduce waste, repurpose materials, and rethink consumption patterns. It’s heartening to witness the next generation actively engaging with these issues, and I’m confident that their creativity will drive the future of a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry."
The competition has not only reconnected students and young people to the city’s rich shirt-making history but has also ignited a broader conversation about sustainability in fashion. The spirit of craftsmanship and community that once defined Derry’s textile industry is alive and well, and the young designers who participated are now at the forefront of a new era of sustainable fashion.
As we close another successful Sustainable Fashion Week, the impact of this competition is clear: every stitch, every garment, and every idea has contributed to a greener, more sustainable future. We look forward to seeing how these young minds continue to shape the future of fashion.
