Bradford Fashion Show Highlights Sustainability and Heritage

Community event showcases sustainable fashion and raises funds

A fashion show held at Valley Parade, Bradford, brought together elements of sustainability, cultural heritage, and community engagement. The event, titled ‘Threads Together’, was organised by Bradford City FC Community Foundation in partnership with the Yorkshire Women’s Forum.

Event details and purpose

The ‘Threads Together’ fashion show featured a range of clothing items that reflected Bradford’s rich textile history and cultural diversity. The showcase included upcycled and ethically inspired designs, blending traditional influences with contemporary styles. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the environmental and social impacts of fast fashion.

The event attracted hundreds of people from across the Bradford district and involved over 90 models aged between 14 and 86. The models displayed garments made by the Yorkshire Women’s Forum, based at Lister Mills in Manningham, a historic textile mill once known as the largest silk factory in the world. Additional clothing was provided by Bradford College as part of the Bradford Re-Made project, which challenged students to transform Bradford City AFC training kits into experimental fashion pieces.

Community involvement and support

• The event was supported by local organisations including Stachiw Bashir Solicitors and Another Way Women’s Foundation.
• Proceeds from ticket sales and a bazaar featuring clothes, jewellery, and accessories raised over £5,000.
• Funds will support the Yorkshire Women’s Forum’s ‘Period Poverty Project’, which provides essential products and assistance to women and girls in the Bradford area.

Statements from organisers

Lizzie Saunderson-Trowell, CEO of Bradford City FC Community Foundation, highlighted the event’s focus on sustainability, community, and cultural identity. She noted the collaboration with the Yorkshire Women’s Forum as key to the event’s success and expressed optimism about future partnerships.

Tanu Patel, Managing Director of the Yorkshire Women’s Forum, described the show as an opportunity to promote community cohesion and sustainability. She emphasised that many attendees experienced a fashion show for the first time and valued the connection to the local football club and the wider community.

About the Yorkshire Women’s Forum

The Yorkshire Women’s Forum CIC is a community organisation dedicated to supporting women through creative workshops and projects centred on sustainability. Their work aims to promote mental health and wellbeing through creative engagement.