Fashion and textile students took to the catwalk with clothes made entirely from recycled plastic shopping bags. The Chelmsford College level three BTec learners showed off their garments at the intu Lakeside shopping centre, in Essex, alongside fashion displays from the centre’s shops, which donated the shopping bags for the students’ creations. Julie Leahy, curriculum leader for the art and design faculty, said: “The students were extremely excited about being involved in such a high-profile show. “They have worked extremely hard, with a professional approach.” Students used bonding, stitching, knitting and weaving to create wearable upcycled outfits. Audience member Jeni Bayliss said: “The outfits were fabulous and when I realised what they were made from I was completely amazed.” Featured image caption: First year textile student Ella Chandler Lewis, aged 18, modelling a dress made as a collaboration between all first and second year students. Photography Daniel Jones