A promising Mount Pleasant fashion designer has been named Cancer Council WA's 2024 SunSmart Fashion Project winner for her unique garment which comes complete with UV protection.
19-year-old Curtin University fashion student, Yanzi Zhou, said as well as focusing on sun protection, she also prioritised comfort and practicality in her design.
"For my final 'Garment and Body' assignment, we were tasked with designing a SunSmart garment for outside activities," Ms Zhou said.
"I designed a casual, loose fit, versatile and comfortable top for everyday wear.
"The loose silhouette enhances freedom of movement, ensuring the garment is non-restrictive. A key design element is the curved flap on the front, creating an interesting seam line that adds character to the piece.
I selected a sustainable black EcoVero viscose and spandex blend for the fabric, as it is breathable, lightweight, and durable-perfect for long days outdoors. The fabric has high UPF rating to protect from the sun.
"it also has timeless appeal and versatility, making it easy to pair with other garments."
Curtin University Fashion Major Coordinator, Emily Wills, said that the chance for students to be involved in a health promotion project as significant as Cancer Council WA's SunSmart Fashion Project was an excellent opportunity to challenge themselves while adhering to a real industry brief.
"This is the 10th year we've been involved with the SunSmart Fashion Project," Ms Wills said.
"Over that time we've seen our second-year fashion students really benefit from applying a human-centred design lens to creative project, with the winner having direct engagement with local manufacturers and retailers to prepare their design for production.
"Industry partnerships such as this are providing our students with invaluable real world learning experiences."
SunSmart Manager, Sally Blane, said the judging panel was impressed by Ms Zhou's design.
"Because melanoma is the most common cancer in young West Australians between the ages of 15 and 39, one of SunSmart's aims is to create greater awareness amongst young people about the damage that prolonged exposure to UV can cause, and the competition is a great way to do this," Ms Blane said.
"Thoughtful, creative designs such as Yanzi's prove that being SunSmart can also be stylish and fun."
Awarded with a limited run, Yanzi Zhou's winning garment was manufactured by Sofia Clothing Balcatta, and will be available for purchase at Ruck Rover General Store at 242 William St, Northbridge, from October 16, 2024.
Visit www.myuv.com.au
