St John Plessington students wow in world final of fashion competition

Three students from St John Plessington Catholic College, part of Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust, recently showcased their creativity at the Junk Kouture World Final in Dublin.

Junk Kouture is a fashion competition where participants design, create and model fashion, made from recycled items. It offers schools and students a creative way to become involved in active climate change initiatives, empowering them to lasting behavioural change. 

Students Hannah, Lydia, and Natalie impressed judges and audiences with their design ‘Dress for the Record’ – a striking creation made entirely from recycled materials.

Their design incorporated old vinyl records, dismantled cassette tapes, and repurposed fabric, symbolising the preservation of creativity and music in a disposable world. The piece also highlighted the power of music as a universal language that unites, evokes memories, and heals.

The trio spent months perfecting their creation and dedicated hours outside of their A-Level studies to bring their vision to life. Their commitment ensured that ‘Dress for the Record’ was runway-ready for the world final, where it was celebrated for its craftsmanship and meaningful message.

Beyond the competition, the students embraced the opportunity to connect with other young designers from around the world, hear from industry leaders, and even collaborate with EuroSpar on a creative advert. Their time in Dublin also allowed them to explore the city’s culture and sustainability initiatives, making the experience truly unforgettable.

Mrs Sarah Davies, head of art at St John Plessington Catholic College, commented: “Taking part in Junk Kouture has been an unforgettable experience from start to finish. We’re so proud of what our students have achieved. We are also eagerly awaiting the results of another entry, which we will find out in April if it has progressed to the next stages of the competition.”

Mr Peadar McLoughlin, headteacher of St John Plessington Catholic College, said: “We are incredibly proud of Hannah, Lydia, and Natalie for reaching the world final of the Junk Kouture competition. Their creativity, hard work, and commitment to sustainability are truly inspiring and have already encouraged the St John Plessington community to think more innovatively about fashion and the environment.”

Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust is committed to championing sustainability and raising environmental awareness through a range of initiatives across its schools.

CEO of the Trust, Andy Moor, added: “At Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust, we encourage students to think critically, creatively, and responsibly about the world around them. Hannah, Lydia, and Natalie have embodied that vision, using their talents to raise awareness of sustainability in such an innovative way. What an incredible achievement – well done!”