McLaren Vale came together to celebrate creativity, sustainability, and local talent at the Recycled Runway event held at Wirra Wirra Wines on Saturday 25 May.

The pioneering event was brought together by She Sews, McLaren Vale Business and Tourism Association and the City of Onkaparinga. 

It featured innovative fashion designs made from preloved clothing and was a sold success, highlighting the region's commitment to environmental consciousness and artistic expression.

Recycled Runway brought together local designers, businesses, the community and fashion enthusiasts in a stunning display of sustainable fashion, according to organisers. 

"Bringing Recycled Runway to the McLaren Vale Business and Tourism Association was an inspiration for me. As the owner of She Sews, I saw the potential to encourage more repurposing and upcycling within our community," says Megan Caldersmith, creator of Recycled Runway McLaren Vale. 

"There is so much waste in the fashion industry yet so much creativity within our community so I decided to find a way to marry them together. 

“I'm delighted to be able to create, as well as sponsor, Recycled Runway McLaren Vale and look forward to it growing each year." 

Participants were challenged to create unique outfits from five pre-loved and donated clothes. 

The event featured several awards, including two $200 cash prizes for outstanding designs, a People's Choice Award with a $100 voucher, and three $100 cash prizes for notable entries. 

The judging panel, which included local fashion icons and sustainability advocates, had the challenging task of selecting the winners from a pool of talented participants.

There was a draw in the student category, with joint winners Su Merget and Adelle Parkinson-Nee.

The open category winner was Laura Day and the People’s Choice was Renee Haskett.

Megan Caldersmith, She Sews. Image by Deb Saunders Photography.