The University of Westminster recently hosted the Eco-Ensembles Fashion exhibition, which brought together students and researchers to create experimental garments made from waste-based materials to challenge traditional ideas of fashion and luxury by turning waste into wearable design.
The exhibition was held in Ambika P3 on Westminster's Marylebone Campus on 24 March and was organised by students alongside Fashion Business Management Lecturer Denise Francis-Brown, who was supported by International Student Engagement officer Edgar Lee, in collaboration with undergraduate and PhD researchers from the University’s Cavendish Living Lab (CLL).
To curate the exhibition, first and second-year Fashion Business Management BA Honours students were tasked to create designs using experimental waste-based materials produced by students working with the CLL, including buttons made from coffee grounds, leather derived from kombucha cultures and bio-based string for accessories.
To accompany the exhibition Cassie Quinn, Founder of CQ Studio, a luxury design studio based in London which focuses on sustainable design, material experimentation and community engagement, shared insights into working within sustainable fashion and discussed how experimental materials and circular design can move from laboratory innovation to industry impact.
About the exhibition, Denise Francis-Brown said: “Seeing students design garments from discarded materials and sustainable textiles to create a collection for a diverse audience reflects a commitment to circular thinking and reimagines what fashion can become in an era shaped by overconsumption.”
Tonilee Bowen said: “The Eco-Ensembles exhibition has been one of the most defining experiences in our academic journey thus far, demonstrating the power of collaboration, adaptability and creative problem-solving within a live project setting. As a team, we navigated the complexities of producing a sustainable capsule range and creating a whole event to showcase our work. Engaging with industry professionals, including securing an inspiring guest speaker, further enriched our understanding of contemporary sustainable practice.”
Kayla McDonald added: “Ultimately, seeing the event come to life was both rewarding and affirming. It stands as one of our most significant achievements within Fashion Business Management this year, reflecting our collective dedication, resilience and commitment to innovation in sustainable fashion.”
The exhibition directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education and 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about Fashion courses at the University of Westminster.
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