Sustainable Style Charity Gala

Courtney Duncan
Tuesday 28 February 2023

Innovative ideas and events that speak to our community desires and the University’s sustainability strategy are a wonderful way to initiate behaviour change. Sustainable Style have risen to the challenge and are facilitating an ambitious Charity Gala, featuring local artists and promoting a circular economy. We have contacted Maisie Spofford, Head of Designer Outreach, to learn more.

Crochet tops and earrings by Alicia Barne

Please describe the Gala, and when and where is it taking place? 

“The Charity Gala is a unique, new event showcasing student-made, sustainable fashion, art, and accessories. We have recruited twenty-seven designers who have contributed over seventy pieces to be exhibited, with many of them also available to bid on in auction. The first part of the event will be a chance for guests to explore the exhibit and place auction bids, then the floor will be opened for the after party! The Gala will be on March 9th, 2023 at Falside Mill. Standard tickets are available now!”

Why have you decided to host this event? What is your aim? 

“This event truly represents the core of Sustainable Style: showing off how creative sustainability can be in practice, creating a circular economy in St Andrews, giving back to our community, and helping to reform the fashion industry as a whole. Our aim is to give sustainable designers an opportunity to show off their work, as well as support our long time charity, Fashion Revolution. Their vision of “a global fashion industry that conserves and restores the environment and values people over growth and profit” completely aligns with the mission of Sustainable Style and our motivation behind the Charity Gala.”

Upcycled crop tops by Yasmine Morgan

How are you engaging the local community, and how does this relate to sustainability and the circular economy? 

“Many fashion-related events in St Andrews showcase fashion from around the whole nation and beyond. The Gala focuses primarily on the local community by exhibiting work made by students at this University. Helping facilitate the circular economy here in St Andrews is important to us, and this event offers students a chance to discover student brands and makers who they may support in the future, rather than always resorting to online shopping.”

What are you looking forward to most about this event? 

“As the Head of Designer Outreach, I’ve really enjoyed getting to work hands on with the designers who are participating. Seeing their high quality, handmade work in person has already been such a joy to me, and I’m really excited to see the whole exhibit come together at Falside Mill. I’m looking forward to some bidding wars, so come prepared to be competitive! There are going to be some amazing deals on one-of-a-kind items.”

Crochet tops and earrings by Alicia Barne

We are excited to see this event come together, and urge everyone to re-wear or upcycle their gala outfit to limit fast fashion waste. You are welcome to rummage through St AndReuse for a stunning gown or tux!

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