Fashion enthusiasts and eco-conscious individuals have reason to celebrate as a new fashion exhibition is set to grace the royal residence Sandringham House in Norfolk. Titled “Royal Garden Waste To Fashion’s Future,” this unique display features a collection crafted from plant waste harvested from King Charles III’s gardens. This groundbreaking exhibition is the result of a collaboration between the King himself and the talented fashion designer duo Vin + Omi. Their shared passion for sustainability sparked a creative partnership that led to the creation of a truly innovative fashion line.
The journey of bringing this eco-friendly collection to life began with a visit to Highgrove in Gloucestershire, where Vin + Omi had the opportunity to sift through the garden waste from the royal gardens. From this organic material, they managed to create a versatile textile, including fabrics made from nettles, cow parsley, willow, hydrangea, and bog cotton. These materials form the basis of 24 stunning garments and accessories that combine eco-consciousness with cutting-edge design. Notably, the collection features the world’s first maxi dress crafted from butterbur, a plant found beside the lakes at Sandringham.
In addition to the plant-based materials, the garments in the exhibition are dyed with waste plant dyes, further enhancing their sustainability credentials. To add a unique flair to the collection, “hard to recycle” plant pots have been repurposed to create exquisite jewellery pieces. One standout piece from the exhibition is a coil dress made from nettles and dyed with fallen rose petals, showcasing the creativity and ingenuity behind the designs.
While this collaboration marks a new chapter in King Charles III’s foray into fashion design, it is not his first venture in this realm. In 2020, he partnered with online fashion retailer YOOX Net-A-Porter and his charity The Prince’s Foundation to launch a clothing collaboration, with proceeds benefiting charity. This latest exhibition at Sandringham House and Gardens serves as a testament to the King’s commitment to sustainability and his ongoing support for innovative fashion initiatives.
The “Royal Garden Waste To Fashion’s Future” exhibition is a testament to the power of creativity, sustainability, and royal collaboration. Visitors to Sandringham House can witness firsthand the beauty and innovation that arise when fashion and environmental consciousness intersect. From plant-based textiles to recycled plant pots turned into jewellery, this exhibition showcases a new frontier in sustainable fashion. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this one-of-a-kind display, open from March 23 to October 11.