WHEELING – Artists across West Virginia are being asked to use their imaginations to create fashion from recycled and reused materials.
The West Virginia Re-Fashion Show, organized by the WV Recycling Coalition, is scheduled for November 19 at the Huntington Mall in Barboursville, WV. It’s of particular interest to many in the Northern Panhandle, as Brooke County artists have had particular success in the competition in recent years, explained Rebecca Friend, director of the Ohio County Solid Waste Authority.
“I know that Linsly did her own fashion show this year, and some of those students may go to the state competition,” she said. “This is a really fun way to get the word out about recycling and a great way for kids to do fun and creative things.”
Registration for the event begins at 11 am, and the show begins at 1 pm Tickets may be individual or group.
The participants will be divided into two age groups: those under 13 years old and those over 14 years old. Three prizes will be awarded in each age category, with first place receiving $250; second place, $100; and third place, $50.
Entrants can also register to compete in three themed categories:
– Comic-Con Cosplay Challenge: The garments are made with reused or recyclable elements in
a design inspired by characters from animated movies, comics, live action
movies, TV shows, or video games. Accessories and functional weapons are not allowed.
– Shopping Challenge: Garments and/or costumes are created with recycled elements
found in a retail environment, including cups, bags, clothing labels, hangers, garments
handbags, store promotional materials and broken jewelry.
– Newspaper Challenge: Most of the garment must be made from newspapers.
– General Topic: Anything goes, in this category. Any other non-specific thematic item will be
go into the “General” category.
Friend recalls that in the past, Dollar Store bags have been refashioned to recreate the dress Elle wore in Beauty and the Beast. Another project used Taco Bell sauce packets to create a Mexican-themed dress.
Winners in each themed category get a $50 gift card.
Those with questions should call 304-414-1122 or email ReFashion@wvrecycles.org.