February is going to be all about flair and fancy as the Melbourne Fashion Festival arrives in Wyndham.
The Melbourne Fashion Festival runs from 14-28 February and is celebrating its 30th anniversary with the theme, ‘Fashion as a Spectator Sport’.
Three free sustainable fashion workshops will be hosted as part of Wyndham council’s Tapestry of Culture Program.
Each workshop will be held at the Wyndham Civic Centre in Werribee and will be something a little bit different for those keen to learn about art you can wear.
Opening the festival in Wyndham will be the Create Your Own Wearable Art workshop led by Indigenous artist Josh Deane, running 1.30-4.30pm on 14 February.
This workshop invites participants to step into the world of sustainable style and wearable art.
You will have the opportunity to learn the painting techniques Deane uses to breathe new life into textiles and transform old clothes into a statement piece.
Participants are asked to bring one clean item of clothing made from organic materials only, such as cotton T-shirts, denim jackets or jeans, or genuine leather.
Local technical creative and expert Sam Gehrich will host a practical, hands-on introduction to pattern making with This Is My T-Shirt: A Beginner Pattern-Making Class.
Between 1.30-4.30pm on 21 February, Gehrich will cover the foundations of creating your own patterns through a clear, step-by-step approach to measuring, drafting, and completing a basic pattern from scratch.
Participants will take their own measurements and draft a front, back, and sleeve pattern for a simple T-shirt, gaining skills to create clothing that truly fits the way they want it to.
This workshop focuses on pattern drafting only; no cutting or sewing will take place.
Participants will take home a personalised paper pattern to bring to life in their own time.
Last but not least, Hand Embroidery to Upcycle and Customise a Garment will be hosted by Melbourne-based textile artist and designer Phong Chi Lai on 28 February.
You’ll learn essential embroidery stitches, experiment with colour and texture, and explore design ideas that reflect your personal style.
Participants will leave with a one-of-a-kind piece that tells their story.
Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/arts-culture/public-art-programs-projects/tapestry-culture
