Joyous fashion showcase lights up Eastbourne

By Rebecca Maer 

Designers and models in vibrant costumes sashayed down an Eastbourne catwalk this weekend as creativity took the town by storm. 

Tickets for Bourne for the Runway, organised by Creative Eastbourne members, sold out within 24 hours. 

The packed show at the Towner gallery was on the theme of ‘coastal chic’ and designers embraced it with flair: ice cream hats, draped fishing nets, undulating waves, cheeky seagulls and sparkling fish featured in the joyous outfits.

Of the 45 creatives who applied to be in the show, just 21 were selected by the seven organisers of Saturday’s show. 

Ellie Robinson, one of the organisers, who works in marketing and events, and makes headdresses, told the Eastbourne Reporter: “It looked incredible. I am really proud of the quality of the work and the diversity.  

“I sometimes think people see fashion as slightly separate to art but we want to show that it’s a wearable art form. 

“The show has been a total community effort. We are really showcasing all the incredible creativity in our seaside town. 

“Creative Eastbourne makes it feel there is so much possibility.” 

Seamstress Naida Evans, one of the seven show organisers, who was wearing a bright pink vintage jumpsuit from Vinted, said: “It’s gone really well and the feedback has been great – there is a real mix of designs.” 

The Creative Eastbourne group, only launched in July last year by graphic artist Maja Jones, has more than 4,200 followers on Instagram and has organised several events, including a postcard art show in February this year and regular gatherings. 

Among the designs on show was a showstopping hat of a seagull swooping onto a plate of chips, all against the background of a sparkling sun.

It was created by textile designer Claire Murray, who started making headwear a few years ago. 

She reckons she spent about 40 hours creating the eye-catching hat. Everything is hand-made, using upcycled fabrics and is hand-sewn, never glued. 

Many of her creations are commissions for events such as hen parties and days at the races. 

“It’s the best of all worlds: a bit of art and a bit of sculpture. You are always working against gravity!” she told the Eastbourne Reporter. 

Showgoers also had the chance to buy from craft stalls at the event, displaying the work of Creative Eastbourne members. 

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