The Loop participants had the opportunity to collaborate with local sustainable fashion brand, Melaleuca Rise, led by fashion designer and all-round creative, Leuca Jane Ziemons, on creating a collection for Eco Fashion Week 2024.
Following Leuca’s direction, the participants were able to use the sewing skills they had learnt from the Loop training program to create fashion garments for the runway. Leuca said, “the participants – including refugees, new migrants, and survivors of domestic and family abuse – brought their unique talents and experiences to this unique project. We transformed discarded textiles, digitally printed natural fibres, and screen-printed fabrics into heirloom-quality garments that tell stories of strength and renewal. Witnessing their pride and joy throughout the creative process was truly inspiring.”
Leuca went onto say, the collection, ‘Whispers of Dùthchas,’ “goes beyond sustainable fashion; it’s a movement toward a brighter, more inclusive, and interconnected future.” A future which Loop is also working towards. “In response to climate change and habitat loss, the collection highlights the deeply felt need for connection with one another and the environment we call home.”
A series of events were held throughout November for Eco Fashion Week, including a record-breaking, ‘world’s longest sustainable catwalk on water,’ along Busselton Jetty in the south-west. One look from each designer travelled 3.6km along the catwalk, showcasing over 50 sustainably created outfits. The event was a true celebration of collaboration and sustainable fashion. Watch the full video of the runway covered by ABC News here.
On November 16th, Whispers of Dùthchas hit the runway at Midland Junction Arts Centre showcasing the full collection created by Leuca and Loop’s participants. Some of the participants were able to attend the event to witness the garments they had made, come to life. Leuca commented, “watching their faces light up as their collaborative efforts graced the stage at the Midland Junction Arts Centre was a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration to foster meaningful impact for everyone involved.” It was, “a moment I’ll never forget.”
“This experience reaffirmed my belief that fashion can be a force for good—a platform for connection, creativity, and change. My heartfelt thanks go out to the participants and Loop Foundation for joining me on this journey toward a brighter, more connected, and caring future.” (Leuca Jane Ziemons, Melaleuca Rise 2024).
Congratulations to Leuca and the Loop Eco Fashion Week team. We are so proud and grateful to have been able to partner with Melaleuca Rise for this opportunity and give our participants the chance to play their part in a small piece of fashion history.
Madelyn Sumner, November 2024
Image credit: ABC South West: Andrew Williams, 2024