The workshop dedicated to recycling and upcycling fashion was held on two occasions, on March 26 and April 9, at Dr. Ivan Merz Elementary School in Zagreb.

During the first session, designer Nataša Mihaljčišin spoke with seventh-grade students about the significance of fashion, its impact on society and the environment, and the difference between fashion and clothing. The students were given the task of designing their own garment—not from scratch, but by using an old T-shirt or another piece of clothing, which they were encouraged to transform and give new life.

The second session was practically oriented: the Nataša prepared various fabrics and fashion accessories for the students, which they used to create their own outfits. Working together, the students developed new fashion pieces by recycling older garments, and they presented their creations in a fashion show that concluded the workshop.

Throughout the workshop, students had the opportunity to become more aware of the importance of practices such as recycling and upcycling, as well as ways in which they can independently redesign worn-out clothing and creatively transform it into new and interesting garments. With this workshop, we aimed to highlight the importance of an ecological approach to fashion, based on sustainable ways of dressing and the development of creative strategies that can help reduce the negative impacts of fast fashion.

The workshop is part of the Neighborhood in Practice program, funded through the City of Zagreb’s public call “Culture and Art in the Community,” and implemented by WHW.

Supported by:

City of Zagreb Office for Culture and Civil Society