October 16, 2022
Eco-Warriors and Fashionistas Unite!
Sustainable Fashion Week Returns to Atlanta October 19-22
Sustainable Fashion Week (ATLSFW) is back in Atlanta for its second year, beginning October 19. This recent addition to the Atlanta fashion scene bridges the gap between sustainable brands and consumers through its events that include runway shows, panels, and fashion-industry mixers.
In addition to bringing attention to sustainability and accessibility, ATLSFW connects consumers to emerging designers and established industry heavyweights. According to the ATLSFW The goals of the event is for every show and panel to educate consumers and showcase that sustainability is accessible to the masses by providing eco-friendly brands through mainstream channels.
“ATLSFW allows a smaller brand to reach new clients and to showcase that sustainable fashion doesn’t have to look deconstructed and silly” said Aysegul Ikna, a returning designer from last year. “Sustainable fashion is just as complete, original, and chic as its non-eco-friendly counterparts, and the event allows that to shine through which is why I love being a part of it.”
A kick-off reception at Ponce City Market on October 19 includes a cocktail hour, student presentations, runway shows, and a tribute to Andre Leon Talley. Lee +White, an event space in West Atlanta, will host the rest of the week.
The event schedule also features a “How Sustainability Shapes Culture” panel, ready-wear runway shows, and live demonstrations on how to repurpose everyday closet items.
The event’s student competition invites designs that are practical for the “everyday person.” Winners will receive a mentorship with a sustainable fashion expert and a $500 cash prize. The competition highlights emerging faces in sustainable fashion and showcases ATLSFW’s emphasis on education.
“The event is something I’m truly honored to be included in again,” said returning model Annalee Nelson. “When I saw the casting call last year, I signed up immediately because of how exciting it was for the community. The energy and education are unmatched. It feels like an event that would take place in Brooklyn or Los Angeles and is an extremely welcomed and important event for the city of Atlanta.”
Ikna noted the freedom and flexibility at ATLSFW that make it different than other fashion events. “Unlike traditional fashion weeks, there are no trends with ATLSFW. Designers are free to create pieces and stories that will withstand the test of the season and be practical and exciting for the buyers,” she said.
Event partners include local Atlanta businesses like Lee + White, MODA, FACE , Porsche, Amazon, and Jezebel magazine. Tickets range from $30 to $325, with the highest-priced options being all-access. To learn more about the event, go to https://sustainablefw.com/.
ATLSFW 2022 Aakofii show