Art and fashion have had a longstanding annual appointment at the much anticipated College Wearable Arts competition. Kicking off in Term 1, students eagerly gather to form small groups and begin to weave the threads of their imaginative garment designs. 

Under expert guidance of teachers Ms Charlotte Pienaar and Ms Jinny Seo, individuals and groups of up to three members started to work on their garments, conceptualising and meticulously crafting their wearable art for one of five categories – Science Fiction, Kiwiana/Pasifika, Much to Sew, Sustainability, or Illumination.

What set this year's competition apart was its heightened emphasis on sustainability. Students rose to the challenge, not only creating stunning pieces of wearable art but also demonstrating a commitment to environmental consciousness. They expertly repurposed old materials, ensuring their creations were as eco-friendly as they were eye-catching.

Term 3 saw the competition heat up as judges arrived one afternoon to deliberate over the 32 remarkable entries. The discerning eyes of judges Mr Rod Statton, Head of Creative Arts, and renowned New Zealand Fashion designer, Kathryn Wilson, swept over the incredible display of wearable art and they made their decisions. The anticipation in the air was palpable, and Principal Damon Emtage had the honour of announcing the winners to an eager and excited audience of students.

Senior School Supreme Winner went to Morgan Alley with Ready to Wear. Her entirely sustainable garment contained just under 1000 individually dyed and folded book pages. The final product – reminiscent of mid-19^th century dresses – impressed the judges and elevated her above the competition.

The winning designs were granted a well-deserved moment in the spotlight during Arts Week, gracing a packed gymnasium with their fabulous creations, as their peers and teachers looked on. The assembly presentation was a product of the students unwavering dedication, passion, and creativity that fuelled the making of each piece. With each passing year, the bar is set higher, and it's a thrill to witness fresh concepts breathe life into the same categories. We eagerly await the arrival of next year's instalment, hoping to see some new designers to challenge the veterans.

Congratulations to the winners below:

Senior School Supreme Winner: Ready to Wear

Designed by Morgan Alley

Middle School Supreme Winner: Mother Nature

Designed by Milly Russell

2nd: Melting like Ice

Designed by Evalyn Penny and Chloe Van Schalkwyk

3rd: Remembrance

Designed by Sophie Ziegler

Sustainability Winner: Mermaid in Protest

Designed by Jacob Johnston, Mackenzie Alley, Oliver Evans

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