The New Collection: Sustainable Fashion is a Cabaret
Hello to all my wonderful supporters,
It has been quite a week! Currently writing this mid-flight on my way to Japan (tell you later), but I couldn't wait to tell you all about my exciting news! On Monday, September 9th, Zero Waste Daniel made its return to NYFW with an event that was both deeply personal and truly unique—something I’ve envisioned for years. My vision came to life with the debut of our new collection: Sustainable Fashion is a Cabaret!
Reflecting on the evening, I’m filled with immense joy and gratitude for the incredible event we presented at the Mastercard Midnight Theatre. This was not just a fashion showcase but a vibrant event where art, performance, and sustainability seamlessly came together in a natural and beautiful blend.
Where Fashion Meets Performance
I was and still am deeply impressed and humbled by the extraordinary talent we had at the show. Each performer captivated me with their generosity and mastery, sharing their craft in a truly remarkable way. Hosted by Julie J, NYC’s reigning Entertainer of the Year, the cast included:
- Alexandra Socha – currently starring as Glinda in Broadway’s Wicked, opened the show
- Daphne Rubin-Vega – the original Mimi from Broadway’s Rent
- Mx Justin Vivian Bond – renowned cabaret performer
- Yvie Oddly – winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 11
- Joshua Holden – Broadway puppeteer and performer
- The Maine Attraction – leading burlesque performer
Each performer wore our upcycled designs, bringing to life the creativity and sustainability that Zero Waste Daniel is all about.
Walking into the theatre was like stepping into a world where every detail, from the ushers to the performers, was a testament to our dedication to transforming pre-consumer fabric scraps into high-fashion masterpieces. It was an evening of sheer joy and creativity, demonstrating that style and sustainability can harmoniously coexist.
Highlights of the Evening
One of the most memorable moments was seeing Mx Justin Vivian Bond in a reimagined version of Alexandra Socha’s wedding veil. Originally designed by me for Alexandra’s 2022 wedding, the veil was transformed into a stunning new piece; an example of my commitment to circularity and transforming cherished materials into something fresh and meaningful. A vision of white in billowing tulle, Mx Viv represented the dove, a reference to the notions of peace, love, and hope.
Another highlight was Daphne Rubin-Vega’s look, titled “The Lovebirds.” Made from her iconic Broadway costumes from Rent and The Rocky Horror Show, this piece was a beautiful blend of personal history and sustainable design. The bird appliqués, inspired by Daphne’s mother’s silk robe, perfectly illustrated how upcycled materials can take a garment past the point that traditionally sourced materials could.
Gratitude and Thanks
A huge thank you to our wonderful sponsors—Element[al] Wines, Flashfood, Manhattan Mini Storage, Meow Meow Tweet, and Sune. Your support was vital in bringing this vision to life and making this event such a success. I’m deeply grateful for your enthusiasm and shared commitment to sustainability.
Looking Forward
Sustainable Fashion Is a Cabaret was more than an event; it was a peek at the future of fashion, where sustainable fashion is just fashion. This show is proof that sustainability and high fashion can come together to create something truly extraordinary. As I look back on this fantastic experience, my heart is warmed and I’m excited about the future.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and supported this journey. Your presence made it all the more special and inspiring. Here’s to a future where every stitch contributes to a brighter, more sustainable world!
With heartfelt thanks,
Daniel
Photo credits: Luis Suarez