Media Mingle: Fashion Forward!

What happens to our clothes after we discard them? How can we consume fashion more sustainably and extend the life of our garments?

This special edition of Media Mingle is all about sustainable fashion. The evening begins with a talk by Dr. Sabine Weber (Seneca Polytechnic), an expert in textile waste, recycling, and sustainable consumption. She will provide insights into what happens to our discarded clothing and discuss alternatives to fast fashion.

Following the talk, Berlin-based artist Carolin Lindner will lead a hands-on workshop. At three creative stations, participants can upcycle, repair, and personalize their own garments:

1. Upcycling: Cropping, Patching & Painting – Crop T-shirts and pants (without a sewing machine), add iron-on patches, or decorate with fabric paint.
2. Repair & Mending – Sew on buttons, patch holes, and make old clothes wearable again.
3. Embroidery & Creative Repair – Use embroidery techniques to mend holes, add decorative stitching, or create unique accents.

Please bring clothing items you’d like to transform or repair! If you have your own sewing kit (needles, thread, etc.), feel free to bring it – but we will also provide materials.

About the Speakers

Dr. Sabine Weber is a professor at Seneca Polytechnic, teaching courses on fashion business, sustainability, and product development. Her research focuses on textile waste, recycling, and sustainable consumption. She has published widely and curated exhibitions on sustainable fashion. Dr. Weber co-founded the Canadian Circular Textiles Consortium and has received multiple awards for her contributions.

Carolin Lindner is a multidisciplinary artist with roots in Berlin, now based in Toronto. With a background in drama pedagogy and graphic design. She has co-directed international theatre festivals in Germany and led art and theatre workshops worldwide. In addition to her work in the performing arts, she has extensive experience in sewing and creative textile repair.