Rags to riches

Rutherglen model Gillian showcases stunning designs made from'waste'clothing as part of fashion challenge

- STAFF REPORTER

A Rutherglen model has helped show how creativity and community can reframe what we consider “waste”.

Gillian Cheung brought upcycled designs created from Shelter Scotland rag stock to life in a fashion challenge spotlighting textile waste and social impact.

As households across Scotland continue their New Year clear-outs, the project arrives at a critical moment — challenging assumptions about “waste” and encouraging more thoughtful ways to revalue unwanted clothing.

A groundbreaking collection of six upcycled outfits — created entirely from rag stock donated to Shelter Scotland — was unveiled as part of the Fashion for Social Change design challenge. The project, hosted at Glasgow’s historic Trades Hall, spotlighted the urgent issue of textile waste while celebrating Scotland's extraordinary creative talent.