The Circular Fashion Exposition is hosting its semesterly showcase on Saturday at 5 p.m., where they will present a sustainability-centered fashion show designed and produced entirely by students.
CFE started as a small program to promote creativity and circularity in an industry currently dominated by fast fashion.
Since its start, the program has flourished into an ecosystem of its own, including workshops, house shows, thrifting events, vending opportunities and its runway show that marks the end of each semester.
This year’s theme, “Feast of Fools,” sets the tone for a theatrical night where sustainability will meet storytelling.
Behind the scenes, students have spent months preparing every detail from the set, entertainment and wardrobe.
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“Going with the idea of ‘Feast of Fools,’ I wanted this big feast to be extravagant,” said Anusha Ratnakar, senior in LAS. “This year we also rented everything to make sure that it aligns with our goal of being sustainable.”
Organizers emphasize that the show has expanded well beyond the structure of a traditional runway.
Through enhanced set design, coordinated lighting and student-built installations, the production has grown into a multidimensional presentation.
In addition to the visual elements, attendees can expect musical performances from both bands and DJs, further broadening the program.
“There’s something for everyone, it’s really almost like a production,” said Annie Trompete, junior in LAS.
Sustainability remains at the heart of CFE, including for those walking the runway, and pushes all involved to embrace their creativity.
Members of CFE have been working hard all semester to source and thrift clothing for their unique pieces.
“You’re encouraged to make your clothes yourself instead of just going out and buying them,” said Chloe Simpson, senior in LAS.
Those involved in CFE emphasize the way the organization has pushed them out of their comfort zones, shaped their experience at the University and given them a space to explore fashion without pressure.
Members describe the group as a setting where they can take creative risks, develop new skills, and work alongside peers with different artistic perspectives. For many, this sense of community and structured independence has become a defining part of their college experience.
“Joining allowed me to be more involved with my creative side and it’s been really nice,” said Mierra Freeman, senior model in LAS.
Both Freeman and Simpson encourage other students to join, and emphasize that the process and learning curve are far less intimidating than people would expect.
“Everyone here is so friendly, and they just want everyone to have fun and show off their talent,” Simpson said.
For many students, the sense of community and encouragement makes the experience far less intimidating than they expect.
“Just put yourself out there,” Freeman said. “University is the time to do it.”
Looking ahead to the weekend, organizers say Saturday’s show will feature exclusive looks, a student design competition and several pattern runways, each offering a distinct interpretation of the theme.
These elements are designed to highlight the range of student talent and the diverse ways participants chose to approach the concept.
“Get ready for the shenanigans — there’s a lot, but it’s also a story,” Freeman said.
Members of CFE have been working hard all semester to source and thrift clothing for their unique pieces.
Above all, organizers and members hope the show inspires people to rethink how clothing is made and reused.
“Participating in circular fashion isn’t as hard or daunting as it seems,” said Brooke Gansho, junior in Media.
She added that the show itself serves as proof ,and that each outfit demonstrates, how accessible sustainability can be when creativity leads the way. They are also hopeful that attendees can recognize the collective effort behind the scenes.
“Everybody is useful in the creative process, and anybody is welcome,” Ratnakar said.
The event is free and open to the public and free for Illinois students. Saturday will begin with a vending event at the University YMCA from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. There will be an open house in the Illini Union Ballroom at 4 p.m., followed by the runway show at 5 p.m. The event will conclude with an after-party at the War Room at 8 p.m.
