A fashion show created by people being supported by a Barnet homeless charity will take place next month.
The event, named ‘Off the Street’, will see these clients modelling their own designs on 17 May at noon at Homeless Action in Barnet’s day centre in North Finchley.
The show aims to challenge misconceptions about homelessness by highlighting the creativity of those involved as well as raise funds for the charity.
Shelter coordinator Marcin Nocek said: “The event will show the beauty of people we sometimes do not see.
“Never mind their age, size or shape, everyone is involved from users and workers to makeup artists and barbers, you’re not going to know who is homeless who is not.
“The clothing will display the creativity of everyone involved and remind us to not judge a book by the cover.”
The event will also feature live music, a raffle, a clothes sale, and food and craft stalls featuring handmade goods crafted by the charity’s clients.
The clothing used in the show is made using donated items and repurposed materials reflecting a focus on sustainability.
Nocek said: “It’s practical fashion – it’s our version of high couture.”
The idea for the show began when a client modelled donated clothes in the garden at the charity’s day centre.
Francesca, who has been supported by the charity and holds “an acute knowledge about art and fashion”, has created more than 50 pieces for the show.
Steven Rowe, a volunteer at the night shelter and local resident, met Francesca during his time at the centre.
Rowe said: “She was an incredibly well-spoken, beautifully dressed, clearly charismatic lady – you’d think she was running a gallery in the West End.”
Steven described his time at the shelter as a very moving experience and his volunteer work is driven by a belief in treating people with kindness as an active member of the local community in Barnet.
He said: “It’s lovely to give to the local community.
“It’s important to show these people as human beings who are fighting to get back into the system and deserve our help.
“For many involved, this show is about much more than fashion.
“It’s about confidence, creativity, and having the opportunity to be seen in a different way.”
Homeless Action in Barnet supports hundreds of people each week and provides food, clothing and access to essential services for those facing homelessness.
All proceeds raised from the show will go towards maintaining these provisions and meeting demand in Barnet.
Organisers hope the event will encourage more people to engage with local homeless services and support those affected in the community.
Tickets are available now on the Homeless Action in Barnet website on a pay-what-you-can-afford basis with a recommended donation of £10.
Feature image: Marcin Nocek
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