Lite Foot Environmental Foundation will host its third annual Upcycling Design Competition and Showcase on Thursday, October 16 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at The Clyde Venue, located at 223 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd in Savannah, GA. This highly anticipated annual event brings together artists, designers and changemakers for an evening of creativity, showcasing how waste can be transformed into wonder through each designer’s innovation and vision. The event also serves as the organization’s signature annual fundraiser, supporting its core mission to expand sustainable and eco-friendly practices in the greater Savannah area. 

“This isn’t your average fashion show,” said Katie Rodgers-Hubbard, Lite Foot Environmental Foundation founder. “We want attendees to rethink what waste really is and what it can look like, then envision it as a medium for creating beauty through fashion and fine art. By placing upcycled fashion in the spotlight, we aim to highlight creative reuse in a way that can reshape our city’s waste story.”

This year’s competition theme challenges designers to transform waste from Savannah’s material stream of discarded items, including upholstery, curtains, sails and old uniforms, into wearable fashion pieces. The goal is to find creative solutions to Savannah’s waste issues by utilizing upcycled fashion. One winner will receive a $500 cash prize. All competitors will have the opportunity to sell their creations the night of the event. Designs will be judged by a panel of creative professionals and local leaders, with audience members also having the option to vote on their favorite look. Individuals who wish to compete can apply here.

For those who wish to showcase their sustainable art and goods without entering the competition, this year’s event is expanding to include a new Showcase. This Showcase is open to creatives of all mediums including sculptors, visual artists and fiber artists, providing an opportunity to display and sell their upcycled pieces. These individual works should aim to solve real world problems or creatively respond to an issue related to waste or sustainability. Selected artists will display their works during the show and may be featured in prominent local businesses following the event. Creators can apply for a spot in the Showcase here.

Tickets for the event are $25 for students, $40 for general admission and $70 for VIP admission, which includes front-row seating and a drink ticket. The event will feature light bites and a cash bar. 

Funds raised by this year’s event will directly support Lite Foot Environmental Foundation’s mission and impactful projects such as its Closed Loop Water Bottle Initiative, Upcycling Program and Reuse Program. Event underwriter and sponsorship opportunities are also available, giving like-minded organizations an opportunity to support local designers and help combat waste and pollution. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit litefootef.org.