This seamstress in Rizal creates gowns out of trash bags, bubble wrap

Want to wear something that can slay the runway but is also eco-friendly?

A seamstress in Cainta, Rizal has been making gowns out of trash bags, bubble wrap, rice sacks, and used newspaper. She also fashions earrings and headdresses out of plastic straws and spoons.

According to Vonne Aquino's report on "24 Oras," Leonora Buenviaje has been producing her creations for seven years. Her pieces have been a hit on weddings, debuts, and fashion competitions.

"Mas OK gumamit ng mga recycled materials kasi ang puhunan niya is halos walang puhunan," she said.

"Ang babayaran lang dito is labor 'yung paggawa namin. Mas matibay siya, mas makulay at makakatulong pa sa environment."

("It's better to use recycled materials because there's almost no capital needed. All you have to pay for is the labor for making the gown. It's more durable, more colorful, and it's helpful for the environment.")

Lalaine Alcalde, one of her clients, agreed.

"Mahalagang gumamit ng used materials at mag-recycle para makatulong tayo sa buong mundo na maging creative at maiwasan din 'yung pag imbak ng basura kahit saan-saan," she said.

("It's important to use used materials and recycle them to help the world become more creative and to avoid dumping trash everywhere.")

Leonora is planning to hold some fashion shows after the pandemic to inspire other fashion designers.

—MGP, GMA News