On 12 April, Newcastle’s Crown Street will transform into a vibrant, fashion-forward hub with the launch of the inaugural Conscious Couture Festival by Façon Magazine, a community-driven celebration of sustainable style and second-hand fashion.
Billed as the city’s biggest runway event since Façon’s 2019 landmark show at Newcastle Baths, this extravaganza takes a bold step forward, reimagining fashion in the era of climate consciousness.
It’s not just about fashion
Unlike the exclusive fashion events we’re used to, this event champions ethical values, community collaboration, and a commitment to local business.
“This is completely different to anything we’ve done before,” said Sophie Burley, Deputy Editor Façon Magazine.
“It’s not just about fashion, it’s about community, sustainability, and giving back and everyone is welcome.”
The concept was inspired by Jason Fox, senior manager and long-time advocate for second-hand fashion, with decades of experience working in various not-for-profits and vintage stores.
“Jason has been working with preloved fashion for more than 30 years, and this event is really a passion project for him,” Sophie shared.
“We’ve always sourced vintage looks from Newcastle’s second-hand shops for photoshoots over the years, this is our way of shining a spotlight back on them.”
Crown Street will be closed off and turned into a festival precinct for the day, with local retailers hosting pop-ups, workshops, and activations.
Highlights include upcycling workshops, denim bunting created from recycled jeans, and a complete absence of fast fashion.
Supporting Newcastle Food Month
The festival will also support Newcastle Food Month, with local favourites such as The Lucky Hotel, Susuru, and Arno Deli offering special deals to festivalgoers.
“We made the choice not to bring in external food vendors,” Sophie explained.
“Instead, we’re encouraging people to explore and support the cafes, bars, and restaurants already part of our neighbourhood.”
One of the festival’s biggest coups is the revival of the iconic Tower Cinemas, which will be partially reopened for the event.
Tower Cinemas activation
The foyer will serve as hair and makeup HQ for the models, visible from the street and activating the space for the first time since the venue’s closure.
“Our models will be getting ready in the lit-up Tower foyer,” said Sophie.
“It’s a beautiful and iconic space with its chandeliers and vintage vibes – it’s going to be such a spectacle!
“We know people will love seeing this space reactivated and we hope it will be the first of many events held in the venue.”
There will be three runway shows throughout the day at about 11am, 1pm, and 3pm, each with a distinct theme:
• 11.05am: Parisian Chic – Think denim, black and white, and minimalist styling.
• 1pm: Avant-Garde – Inspired by Alexander McQueen, featuring couture looks crafted by TAFE NSW students using recycled and repurposed materials.
• 3.10pm: NYC Punk – A gritty, street-style showcase channelling the bold, rebellious spirit of New York’s fashion underground.
Each runway features 15 models, handpicked from the newly launched Façon Models modelling agency, a diverse and emerging group of fresh talent, many walking a professional runway for the very first time.
Style doesn’t need to be expensive
“We wanted to give these young local models, aged mostly between 18 and 25, the real experience; from fittings to styling to the spotlight,” Sophie said.
The styling team, led by Façon’s founder Lara Lupish, has curated every look from second-hand stores across Newcastle, with zero new clothing used proving that style does not need to be expensive.
More than just a fashion show, the event is an open invitation to the entire Newcastle community.
“This isn’t just for the fashion crowd,” Sophie stressed.
“Whether you’re a student, a sustainability advocate, or someone just looking for a great day out, there’s something here for everyone.”
Supported by the City of Newcastle, the Conscious Couture Festival is another event delivered under the Special Business Rate Program.
Live music and entertainment will round out the experience, making it a true day-long celebration of creativity and conscious living.
At a time when fast fashion dominates and landfill waste is growing, this event is a stylish reminder that the future of fashion can be local, ethical, and beautifully sustainable.
Event Details:
Facon Conscious Couture Festival
Date: Saturday, April 12 10am-4pm
Location: Crown Street, Newcastle
Runway shows: 11.05am (Parisian Chic), 1pm (Avant-Garde), 3.10pm (NYC Punk)
Entry: Free and open to all
Find out more about the Conscious Couture Festival on the Façon Australia website.
For more lifestyle stories:
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- Comedian Tim Ross brings his MOTEL tour to Newcastle
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