Spotlight on sustainable fashion

Calling all upcyclers and stylists, a mystery bag awaits you.

Enable Ireland, which has shops on 32 North Main Street and 25a Parnell Place, has launched a new competition called The Final Find.

The charity is inviting upcyclers and stylists from Cork to prove the unlimited potential of pre-loved clothing by creating an iconic outfit. There is a catch - the outfit must be created from a mystery bag of second-hand clothing. Whether you’re a design student, charity shop fanatic, or once transformed your mam’s dress from the ‘80s into a two-piece concert outfit, this is your time to shine.

The ultimate winners in two categories, Upcycler and Stylist, will be decided by a panel of Ireland’s most recognisable figures within sustainable styling and upcycling. Their styles will be promoted on Enable Ireland’s social media platforms, and prizes will include a €500 voucher, a professional photoshoot and media exposure.

Oonagh O’Connor, Head of Commercial at Enable Ireland, said: “We’ve all got that friend who can turn a pair of curtains into a red-carpet look, or who always finds the best bits in a charity shop.

“That’s who The Final Find is for. This competition is about celebrating the kind of creativity that doesn’t need a big budget - just imagination, a few pre-loved pieces, and the confidence to try something different. We can’t wait to see what people come up with.”

Now open for entrants until 18 July, participants must first demonstrate their flair for sustainable fashion by introducing themselves and their unique style via Instagram or TikTok. All entrants must also complete a short submission form at enableireland.ie/thefinalfind.

Finalists in each category will then be welcomed to the runway to showcase their looks at a glamorous in person fashion show event in October.

A winner will be crowned in each category as well as an ultimate overall champion.