James Dimech: Fashion Artist with a Passion for Sustainable Couture
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Top Event Magazine about my journey as a fashion artist. We discussed my passion for creating wearable art from recycled and sustainable materials.
For those unfamiliar with my work, I began my career as an interior designer. I’ve always been artistically inclined, and my family’s construction business fostered a love for design. While I trained in interiors, fashion has always held a special place in my heart. I even dabbled in modelling and fashion styling as a teenager!
My foray into fashion design began with a challenge: to create a dress for Miss Eco International 2017 using only recyclable materials. The resulting origami creation, crafted entirely from recycled magazine paper, was a resounding success! It even helped Miss Eco Malta secure third place! This experience ignited my passion for sustainable couture, leading me to present collections at prestigious events like AltaRoma Fashion Week and Miss World.
My design ethos is deeply rooted in sustainability. We live in a fast-paced, often self-centred world that demands instant gratification. While awareness of environmental issues is growing, I believe we need to do more. I strive to create beauty from what others consider waste, transforming discarded paper, metal, and plastic into stunning garments. One of my earliest collections, crafted entirely from recycled paper, garnered international acclaim, with a dress made from metal can tabs winning competitions in Egypt.
My latest Haute Couture collection, "Elizabeth," premiered at AltaRoma Fashion Week. This collection is a testament to my commitment to ethical elegance, with each piece telling a story of revolutionary women throughout history. Inspired by the timeless elegance of Queen Elizabeth I and Elizabeth Taylor, the collection features monochromatic silhouettes brought to life through intricate origami folds. I used a polyester fibre derived from recycled plastic bottles and upcycled waste materials to create a three-dimensional, eye-catching aesthetic.
The response to "Elizabeth" was incredible! Italian journalists and bloggers named me among the top five emerging designers at the event. I also had the fantastic opportunity to collaborate with stylist Linda Boranga and her team on a stunning editorial photoshoot. The experience of connecting with other passionate individuals in Rome was truly invaluable.
Looking ahead, I'm excited to unveil my next collection in Summer 2022! This time, I'm exploring the beauty of nature through vibrant colours, reflecting the joy of life. Before that, I'll be revisiting my roots with a musical performance featuring paper garments.
I encourage everyone to embrace their individuality and create their own unique style. While it's good to stay informed about trends, avoid blindly following them. I believe that true style comes from within.
The fashion industry is increasingly embracing sustainability, and that's something to celebrate! More brands are using eco-friendly packaging and materials, and I urge consumers to support their efforts. Remember to look beyond the clothes and pay attention to the labels! Let’s work together to make sustainable fashion the norm.