Austin, TX — What happens when trash gets a runway makeover? You get Cosmic Couture.
The Texas Campaign for the Environment is hosting its 16th Annual Trash Makeover Challenge on Saturday, September 26, bringing together designers and artists to transform discarded materials into red-carpet-worthy fashion.
This year’s theme, “Cosmic Couture,” gives the sustainable fashion competition an intergalactic twist.
The event will take place at 5:30 p.m. at the TDS Event Pavilion & Wildlife Ranch in Southeast Travis County.
There’s one big rule for the designers: at least 90 percent of each outfit must be made from repurposed materials.
The Trash Makeover Challenge has been encouraging Austinites to rethink waste since 2011. Organizers say the event has resulted in more than 150 original fashion designs made from waste and raised more than $1 million for environmental justice.
This year’s event will be hosted by Jala Washington, an Emmy Award-winning journalist with NBC and Telemundo in Dallas.
The proceeds benefit the Texas Campaign for the Environment, which advocates for issues including recycling and composting, electronic waste, single-use plastics and environmental protections.
Event details
What: 16th Annual Trash Makeover Challenge — “Cosmic Couture”
When: Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: TDS Event Pavilion & Wildlife Ranch, Southeast Travis County
More information: www.trashmakeover.com