Ireland's emerging fashion design talent proved that the future is sustainable at the first-ever national Relove Fashion Grand Final held on April 30, 2025. The event took place at the Rediscovery Centre, Ireland's National Centre for the Circular Economy. The competition encourages teenage designers to create upcycled outfits entirely from preloved textiles, transforming items like old cushion covers into wearable fashion.
The awards saw 24 winners who impressed the judges and audience. Each winner received an upcycled trophy and a sustainable fashion workshop led by experts. Regional winners also took home €500 for fashion-related tools and equipment for their schools.
Elżbieta Klonowska from St. Louis Community School in Kiltimagh won the Best Evening category in the Connaught/Ulster waste region. The competition expanded to 26 local authority areas this year, including Mayo County Council. Over 400 young people aged 12 to 19 participated, rethinking fast fashion and embracing reuse. A total of 43 outfits reached the final, celebrating circular design and hands-on climate action. Arran Murphy, head judge of Relove Fashion, highlighted the dedication and creativity displayed by the participants.
The competition inspires change and promotes repair skills, crucial for a circular future. The event underscores the vibrant future of Irish fashion, emphasizing sustainability and innovation.