For the second year in a row, Ramsgrange Community School Junk Kouture students will perform in The Helix, Dublin at the National Finals in the hope of gaining one of the 10 conveted places up for grabs in the World Junk Kouture Final 2027. TY team "Spotless Scraps" have worked tirelessly, with the support of SNA Sharon McGee, on their striking cat walk ready design, which will be modelled by Leila on behalf of team mates Mary and Caitlyn.
Junk Kouture is an internationally recognised sustainable fashion competition that challenges secondary school students to design, create, and model high-fashion outfits made entirely from recycled and everyday waste materials. What began in Ireland has grown into a global movement, inspiring young people to rethink waste and express their creativity through innovative design.
What’s involved in the competition?
Students work in teams (usually of three) to conceptualise and produce a unique couture outfit using items that would otherwise be thrown away—everything from plastic bottles and bin bags to old newspapers, scrap metal, and even electronic parts. The process goes far beyond simple crafting: participants must research sustainable practices, sketch and plan their designs, and bring their ideas to life with attention to detail, structure, and wearability. From this years TY group, Ramsgrange Community School had 6 teams that entered their customes hopeful of a coveted place in the regional finals, also held in The Helix, Dublin.
Once their design is complete, teams submit a short video showcasing their outfit, explaining their inspiration, and demonstrating how the piece was constructed. Successful entries are then selected to progress to live regional and national showcases, where garments are brought to the runway in a fully choreographed performance combining fashion, music, and storytelling. Three of our original entries had a chance to wow judges and an audience of screaming students in the hope of getting to the National Final. While our models Victoria and Keela gave the performance of a life time back in March, it was Leila and team "Spotless Scraps" that caught the imagination of the judges on the night. As a result Leila now gets to perform again in the Helix, this time at the National Final, and repeat her stage worthy performance and wow all present this Wednesday 6th May. We are all rooting for team "Spotless Scraps" and especially for model Leila as we know that this experience is one that is incredibly special to her and her family. You've got this Leila and team!!!!
What is required from students?
Taking part in Junk Kouture demands a mix of creativity, teamwork, and commitment. Students are expected to:
- Design with purpose: Create an original outfit made predominantly from recycled materials.
- Demonstrate sustainability: Show clear thought around environmental impact and reuse of waste.
- Collaborate effectively: Work as a team, often dividing roles such as designer, maker, and model.
- Document their journey: Produce a video submission that captures the concept, process, and final look.
- Perform on stage: If selected, present their design in a live show, bringing energy and personality to the runway.
Beyond the competition itself, participants gain valuable skills in design thinking, problem-solving, communication, and environmental awareness. Junk Kouture isn’t just about fashion—it’s about empowering the next generation to turn waste into wonder.