‘It’s utterly ridiculous’: Hawt Couture comes to Darwin Fringe and promises a fashion show like no other

A fashion show is coming to Darwin as a part of Fringe Festival, and its creator says what’s going to be modelled will be “different and ridiculous”.

Hawt Couture is coming to Darwin Fringe on July 14, 2024. Picture: Tao Ho photography

A fashion show which has been described as “utterly ridiculous” by its creator is coming to Darwin Fringe Festival for the first time this year.

Hawt Couture is the brainchild of Anna Thomson and is a show which seeks to “give fast fashion the flick” – instead opting for attendees to upcycle donated clothes into an unforgettable fashion show.

The show culminates in a runway show where fashion created out old clothes – which has been sewn together by attendees at a series of workshops – will be modelled in Winnellie on July 14.

Born out of a residency in New York City, Ms Thomson said the show combined her passion for re-using and anti fashion consuming.

“The Salvos and Red Cross op shops have passed on clothes and items that they can’t sell, and we are making some weird and wonderful things from this, which will be modelled down a very tongue-in-cheek catwalk that really takes the mickey,” she said.

The show is an Australian first, according to Ms Thomson, who said a youth program called ‘Lit Larvae’ also provided some inspiration.

“As we were advertising the workshops, we had many adults mention that they would love some sessions for 18-plus,” she said.

“Hawt Couture was born from this interest, a passion for reusing and anti-fast fashion consuming, and also the large pile of odds, ends and materials I have been accumulating for the past few years.”

“The workshops are supported by an Arts NT Creative Communities grant and the show is made possible by the NT Regional Arts Fund.”

Tickets are $25 while concession prices are $20.

Hawt Couture will start at 5.30pm with an address to be provided on the day.