Exploring Fashion’s Future: designMT Tackles Fast Fashion And Sustainability
As Malta gears up for its first-ever design expo, designMT, one of the key thematic discussions is centred around Fast Fashion: So Fast, It’s Already Out of Style?
In an industry increasingly focused on sustainability, Malta’s fashion leaders will come together to discuss the ethical and legal responsibilities of designers. This event, moderated by TV hostess, radio presenter, and President of the Chamber of Fashion Malta Foundation Dorianne Mamo, will take place on 4th October at 7pm.
The debate will explore how the global shift towards ethical practices is reshaping the fashion world. As fast fashion faces criticism for its environmental impact, the conversation will address what the future holds for designers balancing creativity with sustainability.
Here are a some of the exhibitors exploring this crucial theme at designMT:
Becky Grech – Bx Design Malta
Step by Step by Bx Design Malta focuses on sustainability, with shoes crafted from 99% everyday waste. Targeted at Gen Z, the collection reflects a generation committed to environmental change. Each pair is a unique statement against the chaos of mass production, transforming waste into value.
Becky Grech shared her take on the exhibition and the opportunity given through this exhibition: “It promises to be a pivotal event in Malta’s design scene, attracting some of the most respected names in the field. It has already sparked conversations in academic and design circles, and I didn’t want to miss the chance to be part of something with such potential.”
“What stood out to me was its focus on promoting quality and driving meaningful change, rather than just following trends or fashion. It’s clear that DesignMT is geared towards those with a pragmatic approach to design, which resonates with my own values. As a product design graduate, I’ve been waiting for something like this for years—a platform where I can engage with other masters of design and contribute to a shared vision of elevating our craft.”
Charles & Ron
Charles & Ron is a renowned Maltese lifestyle brand known for its Mediterranean-inspired designs. Founded by Charles Borg and Ron van Maarschalkerweerd Borg, the duo has shaped Malta’s fashion scene for over 30 years, infusing their collections with vibrant colours, Mediterranean motifs, and a timeless appeal. Their work frequently appears in international magazines, Hollywood music videos, and on red carpets, and in 2018, they showcased their designs at Buckingham Palace for the Commonwealth Fashion Exchange.
The Fall/Winter 24/25 Collection by Charles & Ron is a tribute to the fragile tradition of glassblowing. The duo collaborated with Valletta Glass artisans to incorporate hand-blown glass into their designs, including unique glass handbags. The collection is a beautiful example of blending tradition with modern fashion, showcasing sustainability and artistry.
Keith John Caruana – Captain’s Cut
Known for handcrafted leather accessories, Captain’s Cut presents a collection that symbolises resilience and conflict through dark red and black leather. Made using no electrical machinery, this collection represents high-end craftsmanship rooted in historical research and modern fashion trends.
Reflecting on the exhibition Keith John shared, ”As a Maltese leather craftsman and Fashion Designer I am thrilled to be part of such an initiative that brings up discussion and appreciation of the arts particularly fashion and sustainability. These subjects are central to the core values of Captain’s Cut Leather.”
MCAST Institute for the Creative Arts
MCAST second-year fashion students will present their final major project, featuring four collections: Opulent Allure, Precarious, Remnant, and Velata Anima.
Each collection represents unique narratives of luxury, balance, nostalgia, and mystery, created collaboratively by 19 students as they explore the intersection of fashion and sustainability.
As designMT unfolds across iconic venues in Valletta from 30th September to 5th October, don’t miss the chance to engage with these cutting-edge exhibitions and the discussions shaping the future of fashion.
Exhibitions are free, with venues including Auberge D’Aragon, Fortress Builders, St John’s Cavalier, and Valletta Design Cluster.
For more details about the expo, visit designMT’s website for additional information.
Don’t miss out on the future of fashion through these exhibitions!
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