BLOOMINGTON - A fashion show is getting ready for the runway in Bloomington-Normal, but it's not featuring high-price designs.  

 

The Renewable Fashion Challenge is an annual event put on by the Ecology Action Center, said Assistant Director Kris Hall.

 

"What we're asking people to do is to find a picture - perhaps from a magazine or a celebrity event - of a designer 'look,'" Hall said.  "By shopping creatively and patiently at area thrift stores, we want them to create that look from clothing already in existence."

 

The event is co-sponsored by the Home Sweet Home Mission Mart Thrift Store and will take place this year on April 13 at the Illinois Sustainable Living and Wellness Expo at the Shirk Center.  Hall said the partnership is new for the EAC.

 

"They're very excited about this opportunity to make people more aware of the vast array of clothing available right here in the community," Hall said.  "We're really encouraging people to shop there."

 

 Hall said the new partnership is just the start of expansion.  The Center is looking to develop more partnerships with area stores for future events. You must pre-register to participate.

 

"We're going to be having an event on Thursday evening (Feb. 28) at 6:30 p.m. at The Mission Mart," Hall said.  "We'll tell you information about the contest and how it works along with the best way to find what you need." 

 

Zach Dietmeier can be reached at zach.dietmeier@cumulus.com.