Texas Campaign for the Environment presents the
TRASH MAKEOVER CHALLENGE
WHERE GARBAGE MEETS GLAMOUR!
Since 2011, the Texas Makeover Challenge has inspired designers and artists to rethink waste, transform trash into high fashion, and raise funds to fight for a cleaner, healthier environment.
Our Impact
-
Over 150 original fashion designs created from waste
-
More than $300,000 raised for environmental justice
-
Spotlighted in regional and national media
-
Building a growing community of artists, activists and supporters
TMC HISTORY
​
The Trash Makeover Challenge (TMC) started when TCE planned to celebrate its 20th anniversary with a fun event showcasing recycling. Virginia Fleck, an Austin artist who uses plastic bags to raise awareness about waste and recycling, volunteered to help and suggested a fashion show!
Virginia recruited Tina Sparkles, an innovative fashion designer who had been canvassed by TCE about recycling electronic waste, and was inspired to make a party dress out of computer wires! Their collaboration laid the foundation for our annual celebration, which is still going strong.
About TCE
Texas Campaign for the Environment is a nonprofit organization committed to fighting pollution through grassroots organizing and advocacy. With offices in Austin, greater Houston, and Corpus Christi, we partner with allies in frontline communities and activists around the world to push back on big polluters who prioritize their profits over the health and safety of everyday Texans.