A nonprofit arts organization in Portsmouth is promoting sustainable fashion by encouraging designers to recycle fabric.
For nine years, 3S Artspace has hosted its Upcycle Runway event. This year’s theme, “Red Carpet Reinvented,” challenged artists to design outfits for models to wear on the runway, all within just two and a half days.
Ashley Cushon took home both the first-place award and the audience choice prize for her design, worn by Doug Ridley, a Korean American model. Cushon, who has studied Asian culture and traveled to Korea, emphasized the importance of cultural respect in her work.
“As someone inspired by culture, I try to stay mindful of cultural appropriation. I work closely with the person to ensure I honor their culture without turning it into a gimmick,” said Cushon.
Beth Falconer, Executive Director of 3S Artspace, explained that judges from Boston evaluated the designs based on creativity, the reuse of materials, and design principles.
“They look for looks that showcase creativity and style, with a sense of luxury and craftsmanship fit for a red carpet. They also check the quality of the garment, including seams, hems, and finishes. The design should be innovative, cohesive, and captivating from every angle,” Falconer said.
Cushon’s winning design for Ridley was a traditional Korean Hanbok dress made from heavy satin material. Ridley, who was adopted from Korea and grew up feeling pressured to fit into Western culture, said Cushon’s design helped him reconnect with his roots.
“After hearing my story and the changes I’ve gone through, she asked me, ‘When was the last time you felt confident?’ I couldn’t answer. She wanted to draw from that experience in the design,” Ridley said.
Wearing the traditional Hanbok on the runway, Ridley said he felt confident and proud.
Cushon received $1,500 for her design and is considering mass-producing parts of it, although she emphasized that she would avoid fast fashion.
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