Revamping Waste: Desert Wind’s ‘Trashion Show’ Unveils Budget-Friendly Style

Desert Wind Middle School’s gymnasium was transformed into an eco-friendly runway this afternoon during the annual “Trashion Show,” showcasing creative designs made from recycled materials. The event featured sixth graders flaunting outfits crafted from items such as soda tabs, plastic water bottles, and chip bags.

Students aimed to raise awareness about recycling by representing various countries. Parents and classmates filled the bleachers, cheering as participants presented their unique ensembles. Elijah Shivers, one of the students, shared that his outfit drew inspiration from a Fortnite character, incorporating a water bottle belt and Coca-Cola can pockets.

The event’s purpose extended beyond fashion; it promoted sustainability. Yricka Ursal, a lead educator, explained that students sourced trash from home to create their outfits, learning about creativity and environmental responsibility in the process. “This is about confidence, creativity, and caring for the Earth,” Ursal stated.

In addition to design skills, the Trashion Show integrated various subjects, including English, math, and science. Students wrote persuasive texts about sustainability and managed fake budgets while tying cultural research into their outfits. “It’s STEAM in action,” Ursal emphasized.

Judges critiqued each outfit based on originality and adherence to the recycling theme. Before each model took to the runway, a video detailed the thought behind their outfits, including material choices and the countries they represented.

Randy Acosta-Madrid, representing the United Kingdom, expressed excitement about calculating measurements for his cardboard watch and suit. The creative potential of waste material inspired many participants. Napoleon White, who wore a shirt made from chip bags, described how a teacher’s idea helped him design his winning outfit for Mr. Trashion Show 2025.

For participants like Anessia Gray, challenges included constructing outfits from tricky materials. “Plastic melts in water, so we had to be careful,” she noted, highlighting the learning experience that extended beyond crafting skills. “I learned about teamwork and creativity,” she added.

Lialah Vasquez, who represented Brazil, shared that the experience taught her to highlight the beauty in repurposed items. Ursal hopes the students will take these lessons to heart, emphasizing proper disposal and recycling practices.

The Trashion Show left a lasting impression on both students and parents. “It will be added to their core memory,” Ursal remarked, underlining the event’s ability to foster pride and confidence among the participants. One standout design included a flowing skirt made from white trash bags, representing the Philippines, which Ursal admired for its creativity.

Ursal concluded with a message for parents, encouraging them to witness a different side of their children, filled with confidence and creativity. “I hope it makes them super proud,” she said.