On 1st December, our travelling Carbon Cost of Fashion exhibit was showcased at the Magdalen College School ‘Slow Fashion‘ event. The evening celebrated alternatives to fast fashion, such as borrowing, buying second-hand, and mending, while raising funds for Mustardseed Junior School and Oxford Samaritans. Around 150 students, teachers, and parents attended.

Sharing Insight and Inspiration

The night began with talks from two former students. One shared his journey from finance into jewellery design at Alice Made This, while the other discussed his studies at Central Saint Martins and his inclusion in Vogue’s “9 Names To Know From CSM’s Class Of 2024.”

A clothing repair artist from TOAST showcased garments repaired with darning and sashiko techniques, all reinforcing the message to buy less, but better.

Students modeled outfits made entirely from pre-loved clothing donated by the school community, and even staff members joined the catwalk. Perhaps we’ll see Magdalen students and teachers in our Sustainable Fashion Show at Blenheim Palace 2026!

The event ended with a sustainability-themed quiz. It helped the students consider the impact of fast fashion while voting on their favourite outfits. A thrift shop at the back of the hall raised additional funds for selected charities, and surplus clothes were donated to Tyndale Community School in support of Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa.

Our Travelling Exhibit

At the back of the hall, alongside the school’s thrift shop, stood our traveling Carbon Cost of Fashion exhibit. We included some pieces from this year’s sustainable fashion show, such as the Coke can dress and plastic bag wedding dress. Our exhibit explored the realities of fast fashion and highlighted more sustainable alternatives. It also showcased our denim collection, fabrics of the future, and “Wear, Repair, and Repeat” exhibits.

People said the displays were thought-provoking and added interest to the show.

My role involved coordinating the entire process for the exhibit: arranging its transport to the school, setting up the display before the event, and organising its collection and return afterwards. I was supported by two volunteers, whose help ensured a smooth and efficient setup and takedown.

Being part of Magdalen College School’s Slow Fashion event was a rewarding experience and a valuable opportunity to bring sustainability discussions to a wider audience. The positive feedback and enthusiasm of the school community made the evening very exciting. We were proud to contribute our exhibit to an event that celebrated creativity, encouraged conscious choices, and supported two impactful charities.