The Hive, a local arts collective, has taken a bold step in promoting sustainable fashion by hosting its very first Handmade and Vintage Fashion Show on April 6. This event, held indoors at the Red Chevron Club on Elizabeth St., showcased eco-friendly designs and celebrated the beauty of sustainable fashion, while supporting local artists and creators.

The Hive is quickly becoming a go-to destination in Guelph, supporting makers through its weekly themed markets and its storefront located at 349 Elizabeth St., founded by Tri-City Bee Rescue. The Handmade and Vintage Fashion Show was a milestone for the collective, drawing attention to sustainable and upcycled clothing and accessories—reworked pieces that promote reuse and reduce waste.

Bobby Raffin, designer behind Three Pieces, emphasized one of the unique aspects of the show: all the items on the runway were available for purchase, allowing attendees to take home a piece of the sustainable fashion showcased. “We are a city that celebrates sustainable fashion and eco looks,” said Raffin. “This event really shows what Guelph is all about.”

The event also fostered collaboration among local designers, models, and vendors. Nicole Lalonde, the designer behind Holistic Goddess, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the collective effort that made the event successful. “This is a wonderful way to support local makers and Canadian goods,” she said.

Here are eight local fashion designers who were featured at the show:

1. Connie Brocklebank of Creations by Brocks – Handcrafted leather goods and reworked hats.

The event showcased the talent and creativity of local designers and marked the beginning of a new chapter in Guelph’s sustainable fashion movement. The Hive continues to be a hub for creativity, and this event proved that eco-friendly fashion is alive and thriving in the city.