Funk It Coffee and Thrift in Missoula served as the venue for the third annual Climate Solutions Week Fashion Show, attracting over a hundred attendees on a Thursday night in October. The shop, known for its eclectic decor and thrift items, transformed into a vibrant space where models showcased handmade and upcycled fashions from five local designers.
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Chloe Russell, who co-owns Funk It with her cousin Markie, emceed the event. Throughout the night, she delivered humorous commentary on the fashion being presented while addressing the reality of climate change. "She is wearing a breezy white flutter top inspired by ’70s trends made from a repurposed tablecloth, paired with shorts made from a collection of denim scraps," Russell remarked, highlighting the creative reuse of materials.
Shanti Devins from Climate Smart Missoula, a nonprofit that organizes Climate Solutions Week, spoke to the audience about the importance of community engagement in addressing climate issues. Devins underscored the need for hope and collective action, stating, "We’re this collective hive. We’re humming along, and we are part of the solution."
The fashion show aims to foster community while raising awareness about the significant carbon footprint of the fashion industry, responsible for 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Fast fashion trends, often produced under poor working conditions, contribute to environmental degradation, including the microplastics problem caused by synthetic textiles like polyester.
Research from China in 2024 indicated that denim jeans are typically worn just seven times before being discarded, with their decomposition in landfills producing methane, a potent greenhouse gas. The Missoula event presented an alternative through its focus on sustainable fashion, featuring designs that utilized upcycled materials.
Amy Pearson, one of the participating designers, showed her commitment to sustainability by incorporating heirloom textiles and other repurposed fabrics into her creations. "I try to be as conscious as possible. I like using these fabrics instead of leaving them hanging in a closet or ending up in a landfill," Pearson explained.
Designer Leah Thompson, representing her brand Moonlight Citizen, expressed her pride in contributing to the local fashion scene. "The energy around the fashion show makes me feel like I’m part of something bigger," she said, emphasizing the community aspect of the event.
While Funk It offers a mix of thrifted items, Russell noted that the show was a celebration of "slow fashion," highlighting the artistry and thoughtfulness behind locally made pieces. Markie Russell commented on the event's growth in popularity, stating it has become a cherished aspect of Climate Solutions Week, allowing attendees and designers to connect. "To put on a well-fashioned, pun intended, fashion show takes effort, and we do it for the love of the community," Markie said.