Eco Fashion Expo,

About the event

It is estimated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that the U.S. disposes approximately 12.8 million tons of textiles annually. This number has increased largely due to the rise of ‘fast fashion’, in which clothing is essentially so inexpensive that it is practically seen as disposable to the typical consumer. Although many retail companies and nonprofit organizations have been making efforts to collect old clothing, much of it still ends up in the landfills. Since many companies outsource their clothing, much of the most severe impacts are seen abroad. Fueled by these alarming facts, we believe it is incredibly important that the student body is informed of these negative impacts in a visual, yet creative way, which is why we want to organize an eco-fashion show. Our goal is to encourage the attendees to spread the message of sustainable fashion. And we hope to ultimately inspire students to purchase clothing from sustainable fashion companies and become environmentally conscious of their shopping habits.

We also want to promote sustainable fashion choices and values in the Hunter and CUNY community. We want to open students’ eyes to the great possibilities that “trash” can become, encouraging reuse and repurposing. Lastly, to stress the importance of durability, wearability and recyclability in purchasing decisions, and foster creative reuse, we will also have a couple speakers lined up to talk about the importance of sustainable fashion, and give insight into the fashion industry. Throughout the entire event, we will have volunteers standing by the trash cans, making sure that everything is going into the right bin (compost, trash, recycling bins). During the event only vegan food will be served to stress the importance of sustainability in other industries, such as agriculture. Outside the Hunter’s Black Box theatre, we also want to highlight the environmental costs of manufacturing garments, for example having an installation showcasing several gallons of water stacked next to a pair of blue jeans. We will also display the statistic: It takes 1,800 gallons of water to make 1 pair of jeans. Attendees will be encouraged to take picture next to the installation to spread the message.

Why should you sponsor?

Passionate about both fashion and sustainability, the team behind this event wishes to promote green living. As honor students of Hunter College, we all possess an exceptional work ethic as well a passion for educating our community. 

Sophia Newman

As students in the CUNY system, the team behind this event are all whole-hearted New Yorkers. Over the last few years, our eyes have been opened to the fact that low budget living is not sustainable, particularly in the fashion realm. With this event we would like to promote "up-cycling", taking old pieces of clothing and turning them into something new. We want to emphasize that even college students on a budget can live a sustainable life. 

Contact the Organizer Contact the Organizer