Transformational Thinking and Practice Field Day

May 25, 2012 by renee

Photograph by Ana Escobar

Thank you to those who participated in the Centre for Sustainable Fashion‘s Transformational Thinking and Practice Field Day. The wonderful contributions from everyone in the room made it a truly innovative and inspiring day. Frances Corner, Head of London College of Fashion, introduced the Field Day before a series of interesting  discussions and workshops took place through out the day.

Photograph by Ana Escobar

Photograph by Ana Escobar

Watch is this space for CSF’s next publication, showcasing all of the exciting outcomes generated at the Field day.

Catalytic Clothing wins Condé Nast Traveller Innovation and Design Award 2012

May 23, 2012 by zbeck

Catalytic Clothing, the ground breaking project which seeks to purify the air we breathe by harnessing the surface of our clothing, was crowned joint winner of the Sustainability category in the Condé Nast Traveller Innovation and Design Awards 2012,  along with Vivienne Westwood for her fundraising campaign Cool Earth – No Fun Being Extinct.

Conceived by London College of Fashion’s Professor Helen Storey MBE and the University of Sheffield’s Professor Tony Ryan OBE, Catalytic Clothing beat off stiff competition from all shortlisted entries to take home the joint award which was voted for by the public.

This is the sixth year that Condé Nast Traveller have held the Innovation & Design Awards which were founded to celebrate excellence in 11 categories – from sustainability to transport. This year’s judges who put the shortlist together included, Sebastian Conran acclaimed industrial designer and head of Sebastian Conran Associates, Sir Nicholas Serota Director of Tate, David Rowan editor of WIRED magazine, Rowan Moore architecture critic of the Observer and Brent Hoberman co-founder of Lastminute.com and chairman of Made.com, the awards were hosted by Editor of Conde Nast Traveller, Sarah Miller.

On accepting their award from Christina Robert, Founder of Bright Green Pictures and freelance journalist, Helen and Tony said “We’d like to thank all of the people that voted for us and helped us to win this fantastic accolade – your vote really counted!”

This is the second time Helen and Tony’s work has been recognised by Condé Nast Traveller;their project Wonderland, which asked its audience to consider waste, plastics and packaging, was nominated in 2010.

Cosmetic Surgery: Self-Esteem, Aesthetics and Ethics

by zbeck

From an exciting series of talks on diverse subjects related to the theme of Better Lives, subjects include ‘ageing and self esteem’, ‘is the fashion industry contributing to the low self-esteem of the nation as well as to mental health problems’ and ‘self-esteem and the modern trend towards surgical/cosmetic procedures’.  These talks are organised in collaboration with Dr Paul Matts of Procter & Gamble, Visiting Professor at London College of Fashion.

Lecture 4: Cosmetic Surgery: Self-Esteem, Aesthetics and Ethics with Ian Mackay and Margaret Ramage

Tuesday 29th May

Time: 6-7pm

Location: London College of Fashion, RHS East Space, 20 John Princes St, London, W1G 0BJ. (Please contact us in advance if you have access requirements)

We live in a Society where, for some, image seems to be everything.  In order to get the right job, the right friends or indeed the right partner, we perceive that we must not only dress the part but also be physically perfect.  This presentation will explore the ethics of cosmetic surgery, the procedures available, finding a doctor, the consultation, follow-up and dealing with the disappointments when patients either didn’t understand the limitations of surgery or things have gone seriously wrong.  The Medical Defence Union has stated that “There are some common reasons for patients bringing claims… patients’ dissatisfaction with the aesthetic result of the procedure, are problems which could be avoided with improved communication between the doctor and patient prior to the operation.”  Improved pre-operative communication may include an assessment by a psychiatrist or trained psychologist to assess the emotional feelings and drives which lead people to request cosmetic surgery.  Case examples will be given to demonstrate some of these emotional factors and the ethical issues which may arise in the context of aesthetic surgery.

Ian Mackay MB BS FRCS 
Harley Street Nose Clinic, Hon. Consultant ENT Surgeon Charing Cross Hospital and King Edward VII Hospital, Visiting Professor Mayo Clinic USA

Margaret Ramage RGN RSCN
Sexual & Relationship Psychotherapist

Please RSVP to csf.events@fashion.ac.uk

Vote for Clerkenwell Vintage Fashion Fair!

May 14, 2012 by renee

The Clerkenwell Vintage Fashion Fair has been nominated in The Vintage Guide to London’s Best of 2012 Awards, in The Best Fair’s category. The Clerkenwell Vintage Fashion Fair began in May 2009 and has continued to grow with the prestigious reputation of having one-of-a-kind vintage fashion. Polls close on May 19 so if you would like to see Clerkenwell Vintage Fashion Fair win then click on the link below.

To cast your vote click here

To read more about the Clerkenwell Vintage Fashion Fair click here

International Summer School

May 11, 2012 by renee

Do you want to gain a deeper understanding of sustainable fashion? Do you want to get a unique opportunity to be inspired by highly qualified lectures and designers from the best design and business schools in Europe?  KEA are hosting Innovating Sustainable Fashion, a 3 week summer school for fashion students from across Europe to work on a collaborative project to innovate sustainable fashion. Successful applicants will have funding to cover course fees, travel to/from Copenhagen, accommodation, breakfast and lunch, social activities and travel around Copenhagen.

Open to all London College of Fashion BA 2nd year students.

If you would like to apply, please send a 400 word statement explaining why you would like to be considered to n.stevenson@fashion.arts.ac.uk by 4pm Thursday 17 May 2012.

Unpick and Remix Workshop

May 6, 2012 by renee

On Tuesday May 8, the last day for the sustainable fashion lab, Centre for Sustainable Fashion’s Jennifer Ballie and her team will be taking your unwanted clothes and transforming them into desirable pieces once more through a re-creation process of customisation.

This is the last opportunity to take part in an interactive workshop at the lab, it is also the last day to view the exhibition which now includes all of the amazing pieces that were made by designers, Noel Stewart, Gary Harvey, Michelle Lowe-Holder and Dr Noki during their time in the lab.

Open Tuesday May 8 (last day) 10am – 5pm

Dr Noki at the Sustainable Fashion Lab

May 4, 2012 by renee

Dr Noki jumpsuit featured in Vogue

Designer activist, Dr Noki will be running an interactive workshop at the Sustainable Fashion Labthis weekend. Come to Dray Walk Gallery, choose a t-shirt (or bring your own!), cut it up and watch as it gets re-created into something new and amazing.

Last weekend the lab hosted Noel Stewart who along with his assistants taught the visiting public how to make beautiful, stylish head pieces. He said;

“It’s been a really fun weekend. The possibilities are endless when it comes to recycling and reusing unwanted clothes. Fabrics are beautiful and precious – they should be treasured rather than binned. There have been some pretty fabulous creations over the past couple of days. I think people have been really surprised by what they have been able to achieve.”

Don’t miss out on the last weekend for the lab!

Open from 10am – 5pm Saturday and Sunday 5/6th May.

Where Fashion Meets Psychology

May 3, 2012 by renee

The Slow Textiles Group presents An Analysis of Status Anxiety as Manifest in the Fashion System, A public lecture designed to inspire dialogue around the subject of status anxiety that resides within our fashion system.

May 30th 2012 7:15pm

Taking place at The Strategy Lab, HUB Westminster

Noel Stewart Workshop

April 27, 2012 by renee

The Sustainable Fashion Lab at Dray Walk presents an amazing opportunity to see and engage in the work of London based couture milliner, Noel Stewart. Recognised for his innovative, modern and beautiful designs, Noel Stewart will run a two day workshop at the Sustainable Fashion Lab during which he will be creating his pieces from reclaimed textiles and clothing on site. The workshop will be open to the public not only to watch but to participate and learn from one of the most exciting milliners in the world. This will be a fantastic experience for anyone interested in high fashion or sustainable design!

Taking place at Dray Walk Gallery, Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane E1 6QL

Workshop opening times – 10am – 5pm Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 April.

Entrance is FREE but bring along 1 item of unwanted clothing!

Choolips in conversation in São Paulo

April 26, 2012 by anna

Annegret of Choolips and some São Paulo street art

Last week, the sustainable fashion brand – and participant on CSF’s business support programme – Choolips, was in São Paulo, taking part in a conference on Creative Economy, Culture and Business.

In conversation with Magna Coeli, from the Brazilian organisation Refazenda, Annegret of Choolips shared the story of her brand, her business model, her thoughts and ideas about sustainability and the reality of her projects in India and Africa. Touching on issues such as direct trade, supply chain transparency and entrepreneurship, Annegret highlighted the cultural importance of fashion and of  local knowledge in different communities across the world.

Her presentation was enthusiastically received by the audience, who were interested to hear not only how fashion plays an important role in the development of a creative economy in a city or country, but also how to do this in a sustainable way.

Questions at the end of the presentations included one on the importance of education, particularly at university level, in supporting small businesses and designers in their development of sustainable business models. The work of CSF was mentioned as a trail blazer in the fashion industry.

Sustainable Fashion Lab

by renee

The Sustainable Fashion Lab at Dray Walk Gallery (picture above) in Brick Lane opens to the public tomorrow 10am. Over the next two weeks the Lab will host an exciting range of designers, workshops, debates and more. The first event kicks of tomorrow at 3pm when a member of theM&S archive team will talk about the M&S fashion over the years and the value of preserving historic M&S pieces. Dilys Williams, Director of the Centre for Sustainable Fashion will then set the M&S Heirloom Challenge, sending participants off with £25 to find a beautiful vintage M&S piece with hopes of having their piece added to the prestigious M&S archive.

For this rare opportunity, join as at Dray Walk Gallery tomorrow, Friday 27 April, 3pm.

If you want to read more or participate in the M&S Heirloom Challenge click here

M&S Heirloom Challenge

April 25, 2012 by renee

Take part in a challenge set by the Sustainable Fashion Lab at Dray Walk Gallery  3pm this Friday, 27 April!

Image from LCF MA Curation Re:address Fashion Exhibition

We will give you £25 to go out and find a beautiful, vintage M&S item of clothing!

You will have the whole weekend to find this piece at a car boot sale, vintage store, market, friend or wherever else you can think of before bringing it back to Dray Walk Gallery 11am Monday, 30 April. Tell us where you found it, and have your piece with your name attached curated into the exhibition at the Sustainable Fashion Lab. Your piece may also be selected for inclusion in the M&S archive.

To CONFIRM your place in this challenge email your NAME and MOBILE NUMBER to r.cuoco@fashion.arts.ac.uk

Places are limited so respond asap!

Please only confirm if you are available to come to Dray Walk Gallery 3pm Friday 27 April and 11am Monday 30 April.

Vote for Catalytic Clothing in the Innovation and Design Awards

April 20, 2012 by renee

Catalytic Clothing is a project collaboration between Centre for Sustainable Fashion‘s Helen Storey and Professor Tony Ryan on University of Sheffield seeking to transform our clothes into air purifying catalysts. Nominated in the sustainability category of the Condé Nast Innovation and Design Awards 2012, Catalytic Clothing is tackling one of the world’s biggest environmental problems – air pollution.

The winners of these prestigious awards are completely decided through a public vote so PLEASE lend us your support and VOTE HERE!

• Read more about Catalytic Clothing
• Cast your Vote for Catalytic Clothing

Better Fashion Week

by renee

Better Fashion Week is Re-Dress‘ annual event in Ireland to raise public awareness and promote sustainable fashion practices. Between April 23 and April 29 there will be a series of exhibitions, talks, workshops, conferences and more all aiming to bring sustainable and ethical fashion to the forefront of industry. There will be internship and networking opportunities and student discount for all of the events lined up.

To read more about the upcoming events and purchase tickets click here.

Sustainable Fashion Lab 2012!

April 19, 2012 by renee

Images of CSF, Michelle Lowe-Holder and Noel Stewart

The Centre for Sustainable Fashion has teamed up with M&S and Oxfam to create London’s very first Sustainable Fashion Lab, launching April 26. London’s leading designers, stylists and industry leaders will come together to explore and debate a sustainable fashion industry in a series of events, workshops and exhibitions running for two weeks at the Old Truman Brewery in Brick Lane.

April 26 – 9 May 2012

Open between 10am-5pm every day (except Mondays)

Open to the public, for entry bring along one item of unwanted clothing.

The making of FABULAE ROMANAE by Lucy Orta

by zbeck

A video showcasing the making of Lucy Orta’s latest collection Fabulae Romanae; commissioned by Zegna Art. You can view more great photographs and videos on the ZegnaArt website.

Local Wisdom Dublin

April 16, 2012 by renee

Join Kate Fletcher in Dublin, Ireland on Saturday April 28 in the next community photoshoot as part of the Local Wisdom project. Take part in an ongoing fashion research project for theLondon College of Fashion – come and share stories of how you use your garments and have your portrait taken whilst wearing them.

For more information click here

From Awareness to Action

by renee

Field of Jeans and Kilts

April 12, 2012 by renee

A Field of Jeans and Kilts was ‘planted’ in St Andrew’s Square during the Edinburgh International Science Festival, April 4-8 2012. The kilts which were  produced by 21st Century Kilts in Edinburgh were catalysed alongside the jeans. Developed by Helen Storey and Tony Ryan, Catalytic clothing seeks to explore how clothing and textiles can be used as a catalytic surface to purify the air we breathe.

For more information and to view images from other Catalytic Clothing events click here

Better Lives – Series 2

March 30, 2012 by zbeck

We are pleased to announce the next two lectures from an exciting series of talks on diverse subjects related to the theme of Better Lives, subjects will include ‘ageing and self esteem’, ‘is the fashion industry contributing to the low self-esteem of the nation as well as to mental health problems’ and ‘self-esteem and the modern trend towards surgical/cosmetic procedures’.  These talks are organised in collaboration with Dr Paul Matts of Procter & Gamble Visiting Professor at London College of Fashion.

Lecture 3: Self Esteem in a Changing World with Andy Lancaster

Thursday 19th April (please note change of date from previously advertised)

Time: 6-7pm

Location: London College of Fashion, RHS East Space, 20 John Princes St, London, W1G 0BJ. (Please contact us in advance if you have access requirements)

The pace of change is faster than it’s ever been! However, in a society which places immense value on what we do and what we have, what impact can change have on self-esteem? And, what happens if we struggle to adapt? Through working with those experiencing addictions, the homeless, excluded young people and older people Andy explores how our ability to cope with change is inextricably linked to maintaining self-esteem.

Andy Lancaster Bio:

Starting out lecturing in computer-aided design at Brunel University, Andy has subsequently led learning and development in a number of national organisations in the commercial and charitable sectors. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and the Chartered Management Institute and was runner up at the 2011 Training Journal National Training Awards for “Learning and Development Professional of the Year”.

Lecture 4: Cosmetic Surgery: Self-Esteem, Aesthetics and Ethics with Ian Mackay MB BS FRCS and Margaret Ramage RGN RSCN

Thursday  29th May

Time: 6-7pm

Location: London College of Fashion, RHS East Space, 20 John Princes St, London, W1G 0BJ. (Please contact us in advance if you have access requirements)

We live in a Society where, for some, image seems to be everything.  In order to get the right job, the right friends or indeed the right partner, we perceive that we must not only dress the part but also be physically perfect.  This presentation will explore the ethics of cosmetic surgery, the procedures available, finding a doctor, the consultation, follow-up and dealing with the disappointments when patients either didn’t understand the limitations of surgery or things have gone seriously wrong.  The Medical Defence Union has stated that “There are some common reasons for patients bringing claims… patients’ dissatisfaction with the aesthetic result of the procedure, are problems which could be avoided with improved communication between the doctor and patient prior to the operation.”  Improved pre-operative communication may include an assessment by a psychiatrist or trained psychologist to assess the emotional feelings and drives which lead people to request cosmetic surgery.  Case examples will be given to demonstrate some of these emotional factors and the ethical issues which may arise in the context of aesthetic surgery.

Ian Mackay MB BS FRCS 
Harley Street Nose Clinic, Hon. Consultant ENT Surgeon Charing Cross Hospital and King Edward VII Hospital, Visiting Professor Mayo Clinic USA

Margaret Ramage RGN RSCN
Sexual & Relationship Psychotherapist

** Please RSVP to csf.events@fashion.arts.ac.uk **

Product Life Extension Conference

March 22, 2012 by renee

Centre for Sustainable Fashion’s Kate Fletcher will be speaking at the Product Life Extension Conference about Clothing, Durability and Design.

For two decades fashion and textiles has been ‘borrowing’ design for sustainability ideas developed in product design and transposing them onto garment and clothing systems. Now ideas are flowing the other way. The Product Life Extension two-day conference looks at knowledge transfer around durability and obsolescence between clothing and electronic products.

The conference is funded by the Norwegian Research Council and SIFO, and will be held on27^thand 28^th of March 2012. You can download a programme here.

Slow Textiles Group Lecture Series

March 21, 2012 by renee

The Slow Textiles Group invites you three new lectures on the subject of dysfunction in the fashion and textile system, its legacy and affect. The first of this lecture series is entitled An Analysis of Status Anxiety, Why People Buy So Much Stuff and the Positive Implications for Designers as Change-makers. British philosopher, Alain de Botton, suggests a significant contributing factor to the discarding of millions of tonnes of clothing, shoes and accessories across the globe is ‘status anxiety’. In this first lecture he will discuss what he believes are the five cultural contributors to status anxiety. These are lovelessness, snobbery, expectation, meritocracy and dependency.

Saturday 24 March, 2pm: An Analysis of Status Anxiety, Why People Buy So Much Stuff and the Positive Implications for Designers as Change-makers.

Saturday 16 June, 2pm: An Introduction to the Corporation’s Innate Psychological Relationship with Environmental Destruction.

Saturday 11 August, 2pm: An Analysis of the Fast Living Capitalist Machine and Its Impact on Human, Animal and Ecological Balance.

If you book all three, they cost just £65 each. If you’re a Slow Textiles Group member, the fee is just £40 per lecture. To book your place, please click here.

Job Opportunity at People Tree

by renee

People Tree, the Fair Trade Fashion pioneer, is looking for an experienced, practical and proactive Merchandiser to head up merchandising and logistics for our company. You will have 5 years’ experience in mid-Market womenswear and managing people, and be keenly attuned to commerciality. This is a dynamic role working alongside the senior management of People Tree, that will further develop your commitment and passion for Fair Trade and sustainable fashion.

If you are interested click here

Send your CV and application to James Minney at hr@peopletree.co.uk by 6th April 2012

SEED Fund

March 16, 2012 by renee

The SEED fund offers all UAL students, graduates (within 3 years of graduating) and staff the opportunity to develop a creative idea into a viable business or practice. A series of grants of up to £5,000 are available for the creation of innovative projects and businesses. If you’re successful in your application, you’ll also get access to a special business and intellectual property support programme. Submissions should provide an innovative idea or concept, demonstrate market understanding and show the potential to survive and grow

To read more detail and make an application click here

Sustainability Stories Competition

March 15, 2012 by renee

Logica has launched Sustainable Stories, an exciting competition aimed at showcasing local sustainability projects.  Entrants will be able to showcase their work, connect with like-minded individuals and interact with Logica experts.

The competition is open to people in the UK, Netherlands, Finland, France, Germany and Sweden. One deserving winner will receive €20,000 worth of consultancy from Logica’s team of sustainability experts, to help strategise and implement their project.  Projects will be judged on their level of creativity and innovation by a panel of sustainability experts including:  Prof. Dr. Dr. Ervin Laszlo, founder and President of the Club of Budapest, Professor Mark Maslin, climatologist at University College London and Tom Raftery, Principal Analyst for GreenMonk.

The competition closes on 24 April 2012 with results announced on 29th May

To upload your project or to discover other sustainability projects happening click here

Internship Opportunity in Kenya

by renee

Anna Trzebinski is offering an exciting fashion internship opportunity in one of the most inspiring countries in the world! The internship will include involvement in the design process, studio management, sourcing, brand marketing and more. It is the perfect opportunity for someone who wants to start their own design company or work within the industry.

Anna Trzebinski creates unique collections of individually handmade garments and a range of accessories inspired by indigenous designs and raw materials of native Africa.

For more information email sales@annatrzebinski.com

Fabulae Romanae – Lucy Orta

by zbeck

MAXXI – National Museum of XXI Century Arts, Rome – 22 March – 23 September 2012

Part of  Tridimensionale a new exhibition from MAXXI’s permanent Art collection

Curated by Maria Luisa Frisa

Fabulae Romanae curated by Maria Luisa Frisa, is an ambitious sculpture and video installation specifically created by Lucy + Jorge Orta for MAXXI National Museum of XXI Century Arts and that will form part the Museum’s new display Tridimensionale.

Fabulae Romanae is symbolic excursus that traces the artists’ key themes: starting with Refuge Wear, “a nomadic form of shelter, a small portable habitat, which combines in a single conceptual solution the physical, social, and symbolic functions of architecture and clothing”, as described by Maria Luisa Frisa. The new Dome Dwelling sculptures in the exhibition are framed by Fabulae Romanae – Spirits, an immense large screen video performance that was recently filmed in Rome. The mysterious Spirits, who interact with the city’s architecture, embody the ethereal sentinels entrusted with the task of restoring the vital breath of the city. The scenarios these metaphorical characters enact are beautifully articulated through a series of spoken verses composed for the film by the poet Mario Petrucci.

Fabulae Romanae is commissioned by Ermenegildo Zegna and is the first Special Project of the initiative ZegnArt, a multi-faceted and multi-year project dedicated to the field of contemporary visual arts. To close the exhibition Zegna will donate a sculpture to the MAXXI’s permanent collection.

Fabulae Romanae has the support of the Centre for Sustainable Fashion at London College of Fashion and has been made possible with the assistance of alumni from the College: Chloé Gayet, Mio Jin, Lara Torres, Oliver Ruuger and Sum Yu Li.

Video still photography by Paul Bevan

Textile Exchange Webinars

March 14, 2012 by renee

Textile Exchange are providing Recycled Content webinars on Wednesday March 28, 2012. ThisFREE webinar will provide information on: Why recycled fibers are relevant in today’s market; Key terminology for recycled fibers; Recycled Natural Fibers: input, process, environmental impacts, end use; Recycled Synthetic Fibers:  input, process, environmental impacts, end use and more.

Textile Exchange will offer the webinar at two different times convenience across the globe.  The times are as follows.

Webinar for the Americas:
2:00pm US Eastern time
1:00pm US Central time
11:00am US Pacific time

Webinar for Europe:
1:00pm UK
2:00pm Amsterdam / Spain

Click here to register now

Wind Knitting Factory

March 9, 2012 by renee

Here Today Here Tomorrow invites you to the exhibition and film screening of Merel Karhof’sWind Knitting Factory, as part of climate week.

Part sustainable research and part craftsmanship, this ingenious process of knitting uses a wind powered machine that Merel Karhof has developed. The device is designed to hang outside a building, where the wind powers the knitting machine to knit from the outside towards the inside of a building. From time to time it is ‘harvested’ and transformed into scarves which will be on view and for sale at the event. Here Today Here Tomorrow is a collaborative and experimental shop/studio that is used to make, showcase and sell sustainable fashion and accessories.

Film Screening March 14, 6:30pm-9pm

Exhibition of Wind Powered Knitted Work: 12 – 26 March

Address:  30A Balls Pond Road, Dalston, London N1 4AU

For more information on the Wind Knitting Factory Exhibition,
email hello@heretoday-heretomorrow.com, telephone 02072410103 or visit Here Today Here Tomorrow

Sustainable Fashion: An Industry R-Evolution

March 6, 2012 by renee

The British Consulate-General in Milan and the National Chamber for Italian Fashion are hosting a seminar to study aspects that are driving change in the environmental and social sustainability fields. The afternoon will include discussions on environmental and social aspects of sustainability that are changing the fashion industry and affecting the entire production chain. Amongst the British and Italian experts and professionals presenting are Centre for Sustainable Fashion’s Dilys Williams and Alex McIntosh along with Becky Earley and Monica Hundal from the Textile Futures Research Centre who will together communicate the University of the Arts views on sustainable fashion through what they consider to be major themes and relevant case studies.

The “Sustainable Fashion: an Industry R-Evolution” event will take place on Wednesday 14th March 2012, at 2pm, at Palazzo Giureconsulti, Milan.

For more information and to view speakers profiles click here

Blue Alchemy: Stories of Indigo SCREENING

March 1, 2012 by renee

Blue Alchemy: Stories of Indigo is a feature-length documentary about indigo, a blue dye that has captured the human imagination for millennia. It is also about remarkable people around the globe who are reviving indigo in projects that are intended to improve life in their communities, preserve cultural integrity, improve the environment, and bring beauty to the world.

Professor Sandy Black will make an introduction and the screening will be followed by Q&A with the award-winning director Mary Lance, and Jenny Balfour-Paul author of ‘Indigo: Egyptian Mummies to Blue Jeans’ (British Museum Press). Signed copies of Jenny’s book will be available to purchase.

The Screening will take place:

12 March 2012
5.00pm for 5.30pm start.
Running time 79mins

RHS East
London College of Fashion, 20 John Princes Street, London W1G 0BJ

Open to all staff and students across University of the Arts London
Booking essential through:  csf.events@fashion.arts.ac.uk

STIGLITZ WOW TALKS // FASHION

February 29, 2012 by renee

Tonight, Stiglitz WOW Talks will be showcasing speakers who are inspiring leaders in the world of fashion in a range of different ways from a variety of perspectives. what is the role of fashion today? What ‘should’ we the consumers and the industry consider in a world experiencing global environmental crisis? Who is responsible? Do we even want to be responsible? These are all questions which will be addressed. Tonight’s speakers include Alex McIntosh from the Centre for Sustainable Fashion, Amisha Ghadiali, Aret Kapetanovic, Clare Farrell, Mathilda Tham and Elena Corchero.

For more information about WOW click here.

TONIGHT 7:30pm February 29, 2012

The Hospital Club 24 Endell Street, Array, London, United Kingdom, WC2H 9HQ

To purchase your ticket click here

The Great Fashion Cycle

February 17, 2012 by renee

The Environmental Justice Foundation are hosting the Great Fashion Cycle, a charity bike ride from London to Paris, for the fourth year in a row. The aim of the bike ride, aside from the great experience of passing through all the incredible sites between London and Paris, is to raise awareness and essential funds for the EJF’s environmental and human rights work with a focus on the Pick Your Cotton Carefully campaign.

LCF Access Fashion Business student, Amanda Schoppe has embarked on the London to Paris challenge to help raise funds.  The ride will take place this coming July 2012 and Amanda is hoping to raise £1400.

To make a donation and to keep track of Amanda’s training progress click here

If you’re interested in taking on this challenge too click here

New Maps for an Island Planet Event

February 15, 2012 by renee

To celebrate the publication of ATLAS, a book bringing together geographers, architects, writers, artists and designers to test ways of understanding and responding to global change, there will be an event – New Maps for an Island Planet, taking place at the Southbank Centre as part of the Literature and Spoken Word programme.

There will be a discussion chaired by broadcaster Quentin Cooper where geographer Doreen Massey, architect Carolyn Steel and campaigner/writer Andrew Simms will draw on their contributions to ATLAS. Poet and playwright Lemn Sissay will also provide a reading of his poetry. After the discussion and reading, Open Book offers the chance to engage with a wider group of contributors to ATLAS in an informal gathering at cafe tables in the Queen Elizabeth Hall foyer.

Southbank Centre, Tuesday 13 March, 6.30pm in the Purcell Room, Queen Elizabeth Hall.

To book tickets click here.

Be a part of a Sustainability Documentary!

February 13, 2012 by renee

Refl-act are hosting a focus group with young persons in the afternoon of the Saturday, the 3rd of March in Brixton. They are looking for students to get involved and discuss their views on sustainability and for your time you will be provided with delicious organic food and beverages. You don’t need to have a degree in sustainability or be an expert in any way, Refl-act are interested in what you think as a young person. It is promised to be a relaxed and fun afternoon and you will help shape the documentary in invaluable ways.

If you are interested please get in contact through emailing reflact4youth@gmail.com or by phone by calling Christina 07580101831 or Claudia 07596503278.

12 Rules To Dress By

by renee

Amisha Ghadiali, sustainable fashion expert has launched her 12 Rules to Dress by in a call for 2012 to be the year of the sustainable wardrobe. Amisha’s rules evolved out of the idea that most people are aware of the global issues impacted by the fashion industry but were confused about what practical actions they could take to make their own wardrobe sustainable. As a result, Amisha collaborated with visual communication designer, Joana Casaca Lemos to produce a poster and checklist of the 12 Rules to inspire you to think about what you buy and wear.

To read more and download the rules and checklist please click here

Sustainability Internship in Bolivia

by renee

AHA Bolivia is a fair trade, ethical manufacturing house in Bolivia and members of the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO), working with over 300 artisans, designers, retailers and wholesalers to create their couture pieces in natural fibers and recyclable materials.  AHA are offering a sustainability/social responsibility internship in Bolivia which is an opportunity for students to learn about socially responsible practices and contribute to specific projects whilst undertaking an incredible cultural experience.

The program runs for 4 weeks (June 16 – July 15) and includes the practical internship, learning modules and activities (6-8 hours per week), accommodation in shared housing, artisan site visits, Spanish classes (6 hours per week) and airport pick-up. The cost is $2700 and does not include flights, meals or travel insurance.

To read more and apply for the AHA Bolivia internship click here

Future Fashion

February 6, 2012 by renee

Welcome to the launch of Future Fashion: a yearlong series of events dedicated to the politics of dressing in an increasingly throw away world. Hosted by Amisha Ghadali (Think.Act.Vote, Elegance Rebellion) this series aims to open up space for discussion around the future of ‘How we Dress’ from Consumer Behaviour to Intelligent Design. Don’t miss this conversation with Observer journalist Lucy Siegle, who will be discussing her recent publication ‘To Die for: Is Fashion wearing out the world?’

7pm – 9pm Wednesday, February 8

Shoreditch House

10 places have been offered to LCF students.

Please rsvp with your name and contact details to jade@sohohouse.com

Beauty is in the I

February 2, 2012 by renee

What makes us think, see, touch, feel, or smell unique? How do personal journeys, circumstances, backgrounds or the physical body influence the way in which ‘I’ live my world or react to the world? Sustainability is not just about ‘being green’ but about understanding your own values and your position in the world.

This series of talking points will break down notions of identity and offer personal reflections on how greater understanding of ‘I’ can have a positive impact on you, your work and your world.

Featuring:

• Rob Phillips on the power of I
• Celebrated London design duo Boudicca on Unique
• Walter Hugo, fashion photographer
• Lara Torres, winner of Fashioning the Future Design Award 2011
• Kerry Dean, fashion photographer discusses with Alex McIntosh the creative process behind the i-Sustain series for i-D Magazine

Wednesday 8 February, 4pm – 7pm
RHS Centre
London College of Fashion, 20 John Princes Street, London W1G 0BJ
Open to all students on a first come first served basis.

This event is part of Green Week 6-11 February 2012

Volunteer Day – Help Build LCF Dye Garden

by renee

Volunteer part of your Sunday at London College of Fashion, Mare Street site to help build a Dye Garden in conjunction with the nearby Cordwainers Community Garden.

On Sunday, 26 February between 11am-3pm the unused lot next to LCF’s Mare Street site will be transformed into a dye garden which will be used for vegetable dying fabric to be featured in the final MA Fashion collections. The garden will also serve as an alternative place for students and gardeners to visit and relax, it will be a wonderful legacy for future UAL students to use and enjoy.

CSF Screening – Blue Alchemy: Stories of Indigo

February 1, 2012 by renee

Blue Alchemy: Stories of Indigo is a feature-length documentary about indigo, a blue dye that has captured the human imagination for millennia. It is also about remarkable people around the globe who are reviving indigo in projects that are intended to improve life in their communities, preserve cultural integrity, improve the environment, and bring beauty to the world.

Professor Sandy Black will make an introduction and the screening will be followed by Q&A with the award-winning director Mary Lance, and Jenny Balfour-Paul author of ‘Indigo: Egyptian Mummies to Blue Jeans’ (British Museum Press). Signed copies of Jenny’s book will be available to purchase.

The Screening will take place:

12 March 2012
5.00pm for 5.30pm start.
Running time 79mins

RHS East
London College of Fashion, 20 John Princes Street, London W1G 0BJ

Open to all staff and students across University of the Arts London
Booking essential through  events@fashion.arts.ac.uk

The Mayor’s Low Carbon Prize

January 27, 2012 by renee

The Mayor of London has announced that students in further and higher education have the opportunity to apply for cash awards for their ideas to reduce the use of electricity and fossil fuels in London’s homes and workplaces. A total of £20,000 is available to help turn the best ideas into reality. The prize is open to all students in further and higher education institutions in Greater London.

Students should complete the application form provided, outlining their project idea, budget and providing a strong case for funding. Proposals will be evaluated by a judging panel of experts from industry and academia who will be looking for commercially viable options with the potential for significant carbon reductions and return on investment over a reasonable period of time.

The closing date for submissions is 29th February 2012.

For Full details click here

To download an application form click here

Six Yards Guaranteed Dutch Design

January 26, 2012 by zbeck

As early as 1846, the Vlisco company, based in Helmond, served the West African market with Dutch Wax textiles. From 29 January through 6 May, 2012, the Museum voor ModerneKunst Arnhem will present Six Yards Guaranteed Dutch Design, an exhibition about how Vlisco’s Dutch textiles became a part of various West African cultures and found their way into international fashion, the visual arts, and photography.

The exhibition Six Yards is a tribute to Vlisco textiles: over a hundred years old, born in Indonesia, designed in the Netherlands, loved in Africa, and desired in the West. These colourful fabrics make their way to fashion shows in Paris, the markets in Ghana, and galleries in London and New York.

The exhibition, curated by the Suze May Sho artists’ collective, explores the history of the textiles and their stories, touches on Dutch (post-)colonial history, takes a look at the differences and similarities between Western and non-Western cultures, and sheds light on how visual artists as well as top designers around the world have been inspired by Vlisco’s textiles.

Artists, photographers, and fashion designers include Yinka Shonibare, Kara Walker, Ellen Gallagher, Wangechi Mutu, Fatimah Tuggar, Viviane Sassen, Lucy Orta, Hans Eijkelboom, Seydou Keïta, Andrea Spotorno, Meschac Gaba, Bodys Isek Kingelez, Collectie Arnhem, Harvey Bouterse, Acne, Marga Weimans, Dries van Noten, PetrouMan, Querijn Maurits Ver Huell en Vlisco designers.

• Dates: 29 January 2012, 6 May 2012
• Venue: MMKA museum voor moderne kunst arnhem
• Country: Netherlands

See more of Lucy’s Artwork for the exhibition here

i-Sustain VIII

January 24, 2012 by alex

The latest i-Sustain looks at how we can encourage and promote a culture of sharing in fashion, giving garments multiple lives and spreading the enjoyment and usability of good design, see the full photo shoot and read the latest feature here

Everything Must Go – Events

January 17, 2012 by renee

The Everything Must Go exhibition will open this coming Friday at Bargehouse, Oxo Tower Wharf. The exhibition will display the journeys of worn clothing as it is sold for reuse and recycling across the world. There is also a series of talks available to the public on Saturday 21 January, see the following programme:

11:15-13:00 Alternative Prospects on the Used Clothing Trade (Chaired by Professor Nicky Gregson, Durham University); 14:00-16:00 New Models: Recycling, Upcycling and Closing the Loop (Chaired by Lucy Siegle, Journalist and Broadcaster).

Entrance to the talks will be first come, first served so please arrive promptly to reserve your place. If you would like any more information regarding the programme please contact Lucy Norris at lucy.norris@ucl.ac.uk

Everything Must Go is open to the public from Friday 20 January – Sunday 22 January, 11-6pm at Bargehouse, Oxo Tower Wharf. Admission is FREE

Work with Annie Morris for WWF Pandamonium

January 13, 2012 by renee

This is an amazing opportunity any student with sewing or embroidery skills to assist contemporary artist, Annie Morris with her sculptural dress creation for WWF Pandamonium 2, 2012.

Clothepins Dress by Annie Morris for Burberry

Following the success of Pandamonium 1 in 2009, Artwise is once again working with the World Wildlife Fund to host an event, exhibition and book to raise funds and awareness for the charity’s 50th Anniversary. The event held on March 31, will consist of a unique catwalk show of wearable sculpture designed by 25 leading artists, architects and fashion designers including Grayson Perry, Zaha Hadid, Richard Wilson, Idris Khan, Hussein Chalayan and Annie Morris. Following the event, the works will be on public display.

If you would like more information about getting involved in this exciting project please email Dea Vanegan deana@artwisecurators.com

Beautiful Soul Fabric Archive

by Cath

Beautiful Soul have set up a ‘Fabric Archive’, providing the opportunity for young brands, designers and students to purchase leftover fabrics from past seasons with the hopes of reducing waste that comes along with large minimum orders.

Beautiful Soul maintains an environmentally conscious approach to fabric sourcing, so you can see a great range of sustainable fabrics in the ‘Fabric Archive’.

To view and order from the archive click here. Or for more information please email info@beautiful-soul.co.uk

Traid – Sew Good

January 6, 2012 by Cath

Do you Sew Bad? Or need to fine tune your skills?

You can learn to Sew Good with the fashion recycling charity TRAID at monthly workshops held at their Camden store throughout 2012. Just bring along a garment you no longer wear, andTRAID will give you the skills you need to fix, alter and revive your wardrobe. With these simple techniques you can make any vintage find fit perfectly.

The workshops take place the second Thursday of every month between 6pm and 9pm at TRAID Camden, 154 Camden High Road, London NW1 0NE and they are FREE!

Upcoming 2012 workshop dates: 12 January / 9 February / 8 March / 12 April / 10 May / 14 June / 12 July / 9 August / 13 September / 11 October / 8 November / 13 December

Due to Sew Good’s popularity, booking is essential. Please email sewgood@traid.org.uk to book your place.

Everything Must Go

January 4, 2012 by Cath

Everything Must Go is an innovative exhibition that follows the journeys of worn clothing as it is sold for reuse and recycling. Produced by Holy Mountain and curated by Clare Patey and Dr Lucy Norris, Everything Must Go is the culmination of the academic research project, Waste of the World. The exhibition challenges comfortable narratives that our waste can be contained, cleaned and endlessly recycled and reclaims waste as a filthy, powerful and potentially dangerous material flow that has to be reckoned with.

Holy Mountain are looking for volunteers to join the installation team (from Tuesday, 17 January – Thursday, 19 January) and the exhibition team while the show is open to the public (from Friday, 20 January – Sunday, 22 January. This event will take place at The Bargehouse, at Oxo Tower Wharf on London’s South Bank. Shifts are flexible, travel expenses will be paid and food provided. This placement would be ideal for those with an interest in textiles, the environment, event production, participatory artwork, artwork installation or design. Volunteers would work closely with established professionals in these fields.

If you are interested in volunteering please contact Tiphaine Tailleux for more information attiphaine@holymountain.co.uk

i-Sustain: Issue VII

December 22, 2011 by Cath

This month, the seventh in a twelve part series for i-D, i-Sustain features womenswear labelWhite Tent, a design collective started by Evgenia Tabokova a Russian Central Saint Martin’s graduate and Pedro Noronha-Feio, a Portuguese graduate of London College of Fashion.

Photography by Kerry Dean, top by White Tent

Working in collaboration with a like-minded garment manufacturer in Portugal, White Tent have been able to take the time to fully explore their minimal and yet experimental approach to design. The collections are clean, contemporary and offer beautifully made, understated pieces with surprising and unique details. As well as having the support they need to develop their design and brand identity, White Tent have been able to work with their manufacturer to create employment and training opportunities in a deprived area of Portugal……..to read the full article and interview with White Tent click here

The Good Fashion Show

December 19, 2011 by Cath

You have the opportunity to showcase your sustainable fashion with The Good Fashion Show in 2012. On February 18 at London House, The Good Fashion Show will exhibit 25-30 British and international labels working in ethical and sustainable fashion.

This not-for-profit event coincides with London Fashion Week and will be open to the public, press and trade. Go to The Good Fashion Show website to watch the official video and find out more

To exhibit your work, participate in the runway show or both click here to see further details and download an application pack.

‘The World Around Us’ – Print Design Competition

December 16, 2011 by Cath

Front Row Society and Christian Aid are looking for creative and innovative designers, to illustrate how climate change is affecting the environment. They are looking for print designs inspired by ‘The World Around Us’, in a way that will show others the environmental impact of fashion consumption.

To enter the competition each designer must submit print designs representing ‘The World Around Us’. The top designs will be voted for online by participants and short-listed prints will be displayed in an ethical fashion show during London Fashion Week and the winning design will be made into an ethical bag and sold on FRS. €5 of each sale will be donated to Christian Aidprojects which are helping to eradicate poverty across the globe.

For more details about this competition and to download a submission pack click here.

Fashion Futures

December 14, 2011 by Cath

The Centre for Sustainable Fashion has collaborated with Forum for the Future to develop theFashion Futures project, which is currently being run with LCF second year BA Product Development students. Fashion Futures is a call for a sustainable fashion industry. It is designed to help organisations in all sectors take action which will safeguard their future, protect our environment and improve the lives of their customers, workers and suppliers around the world. You can read more about Fashion Futures on the CSF website under the new Resourcessection.

For the fashion industry to be sustainable economically, it must be sustainable socially and environmentally too. These provocative scenarios challenge all of us to look beyond the short term and use our collective power to work to create the kind of positive world we’d like to see in 2025.

John Anderson, president and chief executive officer of Levi Strauss & Co.

Get involved in Fashion Futures, watch the video and share your thoughts on the Forum for the Future blog and facebook page.

Red Carpet Green Dress

December 9, 2011 by Cath

The 2012 Red Carpet Green Dress Competition is now open to all aspiring designers. Red Carpet Green Dress is an international dress design contest started by Suzy Amis Cameron, environmental advocate and wife of Director James Cameron. The challenge is to create an Oscar worthy “green” design, made entirely out of sustainable materials. The winner will have his or her design worn on the Academy Awards red carpet by a surprise Hollywood actress, whose name will be revealed later this year.

Red Carpet Green Dress 2011 Winner Samata Angel

The contest opened on December 1, 2011 and will close 16 January, 2012. The winner will be announced on January 20 and the winning dress will be worn at the 84th Academy Awards taking place February 26, 2011. Click here for more information and to apply.

Project Fashion Ethiquette Insider

December 7, 2011 by Cath

Audrey Vincent, Central Saint Martins MA Applied Imagination student, has found a new and creative way to highlight ethics and sustainability in Fashion through Project Fashion Etiquette Insider. F.E.I uses an online game experiment to reach out to young audiences and generate interest in ethics and sustainability in the fashion industry.

Click here to join F.E.I and play the game yourself.

You can see Project Fashion Ethiquette Insider at the Central Saint Martins’ Experiments in New Thinking exhibition along with 59 other projects from the 7th-8th December, click here for further details.

STITCH Auction and Exhibition

November 30, 2011 by Cath

Stitch, a new non-for-profit organisation that is utilising art to engage people with contemporary environmental issues will be hosting their first major event tonight, Wednesday 30 November 2011.

This art auction will feature contemporary emerging to established artists who have communicated a range of environmental issues (including sustainability) through their work. The pieces start at £20 up to £15, 000 so there is something for everyone, to see the catalogue of artists works clickhere. Keep an eye out for upcoming Stitch events and exhibitions.

British Fashion Awards 2011

November 29, 2011 by Cath

The Centre for Sustainable Fashion would like to congratulate Christopher Raeburn for receiving the award for ‘Emerging Talent in Menswear’ at this years British Fashion Awards. Last night, amongst London’s fashion elite at the Savoy Hotel, Christopher became the first designer to be honoured in this brand new category for 2011. Recognised for his innovative, ethical designs Christopher joined fellow winners, Sarah Burton, Stella McCartney and Christopher Kane.

Christopher Raeburn Spring/Summer 2012

Christopher, who was a part of CSF’s business support programme, ‘London Style’, has pioneered the way for ethical design since the launch of his business in 2008 and for Spring/Summer 2012 he continues to evolve, reconstructing old parachutes, tents and sailor smocks into technologically forward outerwear.

i-D winter warm up issue – i-Sustain

November 15, 2011 by alex

i-Sustain the CSF’s year long collaboration with i-D online  is  featured this month in the Winter Warm Up Issue. We’ll say no more just get down the shops and buy it, it’s a great issue and we’re really proud of the project

Vogue’s Design a Dress Competition

November 11, 2011 by Cath

The Design a Dress Competition is calling all emerging fashion designers to construct a dress out of used paper. What kind of used paper is up to you, newspaper, wrapping paper, note paper, any kind or paper as long as its recycled! Simply post a picture of your creation on the British Vogue Facebook page and ask everyone you know to vote as much as they can for your dress between December 1-7. The 10 most-voted-for dresses will be published on VOGUE.COM during online fashion week and the Winner’s dress will be manufactured (from a sustainable fabric of course) and sold along Matches’ own label, Freda, during Spring/Summer 12. The contest is open from November 9 – 30.

ENTER THE COMPETITION HERE

Fashioning the Future Awards 2011

by Cath

Winners of Fashioning the Future Awards 2011 Announced at Futuristic Ceremony at Canary Wharf

Caryn Franklin with Winners Christian Frank Muller, Ashley Brock and Sara Emilie Terp Hansen

Last night (10 November 2011) in the beautiful surroundings of the East Wintergarden at Canary Wharf guests from the world of fashion, business and sustainable living including Olivia Inge, Baroness Lola Young and Caryn Franklin gathered for the annual Centre for Sustainable Fashion’s, Fashioning the Future Awards 2011.  Now in its third year and supported by the United Nations, The Body Shop and Canary Wharf, Fashioning the Future has rapidly become the leading international student competition for design and innovation in sustainable fashion and attracts entries from all over the world.

Winner of the Unique Balance Award was Central Saint Martins student, Sara Emilie Terp Hansen; Winner of the Unique Materials and Processes Award was Evelyn Lebis from Sweden; Winner of the Unique Communications Award was Christian Frank Muller from Germany; Winner of the Unique Enterprise Award was Alice Payne from Australia and Winner for the Unique Design Award was LCF MA graduate from Portugal, Lara Torres. The final Award of the evening was the Body Shop One to Watch and was awarded to Ashley Brock from the USA.

Fashioning the Future Models wearing some the of the finalists designs

The accompanying exhibition will be open FREE to the public from Friday 11^th – Sunday 13^thNovember 2011 in the East Wintergarden at Canary Wharf. It will be a beautiful representation of how solutions to some of the world’s toughest environmental imperatives will come from the next generation of designers and will showcase the winners and finalists. Opening times: Friday – Saturday 10 am – 6 pm and Sunday 12 – 4 pm.