Sustainable style showcased by young NI designers
Translink and Junk Kouture combine to create eco fashion hub
Belfast Grand Central Station was transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity this week as young designers from across Northern Ireland unveiled spectacular upcycled fashion looks made from recycled and repurposed materials.
The event, hosted by award-winning content creator, presenter and actor, India Sasha, marked the culmination of A Journey to Sustainable Style, a new collaboration between Translink and Junk Kouture, the world’s leading youth sustainable fashion platform. The initiative challenged aspiring designers to explore circular design by creating innovative garments using sustainable, recyclable and end-of-service Translink materials.
Thirty innovative designs were showcased, incorporating items such as salvaged seatbelts, old lanyards, decommissioned staff jackets, ticket stubs and even everyday refuse left behind public transport. Through inventive construction and creative flair, students transformed these everyday materials into high-impact couture pieces.
Jacqui Kennedy, chief people officer at Translink said “A Journey to Sustainable Style reflects our commitment to tackling climate change while celebrating the creativity and talent of young people across Northern Ireland. The students used repurposed materials with real ingenuity, producing beautiful and thoughtful designs. Congratulations to everyone who took part.”
Troy Armour, CEO of Junk Kouture, said: “Junk Kouture empowers young people to express their creativity through sustainable design. This collaboration with Translink has showcased the skill, imagination and environmental awareness of students who have truly brought circular fashion to life.”
In the lead-up to the showcase, the young fashion enthusiasts took part in a design workshop in Belfast Grand Central Station, supported by Junk Kouture mentors. The session introduced students to sustainable design principles and provided hands-on experience working with unusual materials.
A Journey to Sustainable Style aligns with Translink’s wider sustainability ambitions, including its Climate Positive Strategy and commitments to reducing emissions, promoting greener travel and supporting communities across Northern Ireland. The collaboration also highlights the yLink card, which offers young people aged 16-23 a 50% discount on bus and rail travel, providing an affordable and sustainable way to travel.
For more information, please visit translink.co.uk and junkkouture.com.
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Notes to editors:
Climate Positive Strategy
Translink is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and operating a zero emission fleet across Northern Ireland by 2040. Find out more here.
yLink
People aged 16-23 can apply for a yLink smartcard by visiting translink.co.uk/ylink.
Junk Kouture
Junk Kouture is a global competition that challenges young people to design and create high-end couture from everyday recycled materials.
For inspiration on how the Junk Kouture events unfold, you can view the highlights of the Junk Kouture World Final 2024, here.
TL JK 1- Young designers and participants of A Journey to Sustainable Style, a dynamic fashion showcase by Translink and Junk Kouture at Belfast Grand Central. Participants pictured with director of global events and production at Junk Kouture Megan Kelly, chief people officer at Translink Jacqui Kennedy, and host India Sasha.
TL JK 2- Young designers and participants of A Journey to Sustainable Style, a dynamic fashion showcase by Translink and Junk Kouture at Belfast Grand Central.
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