Orange Coast College’s Fashion Design and Merchandising Department is making waves this Spring with a series of exciting events and green initiatives, led by Michelle Craner, the department’s lead instructor.
“Green Coast Day—RE/GENERATION—is a fantastic opportunity for students to become more aware and take action towards sustainability,” Craner said.
The event offers free entry to all visitors and will include scholarship awards, interactive art exhibits, a second-hand marketplace, and student-made garments. There will also be an award ceremony held on April 23 from 12:30- 1:30 p.m.
“Many clothes are deemed ‘end of life’ due to damage or lack of demand,” Craner said. “We’re testing different partnerships to find solutions for these garments.”
The scholarship program allows students to repurpose these end-of-life clothes into new, fashionable items.
OCC student Carson Carrillo, who is part of OCC’s media events and promotions class, shared their perspective on the event.
Carrillo has participated in other department initiatives, including a film premiere at the planetarium a month ago.
“Definitely join, it’s super hands-on,” Carrillo said. “We get to meet with a ton of different industry people, help with events, and it’s a really good community to be a part of.”
Fashion merchandising major Darious Abdollahi shared their role in preparing visuals for the event, emphasizing the program’s accessibility.
“It’s really easy and very welcoming, so it’s good and easy to get involved,” Abdollahi said. “I would say, just try it.”
Abdollahi also highlighted the event’s impact on students and the community around OCC.
“Green Coast Day is a great opportunity to raise awareness about the impacts of clothing waste and how we can play our part in reducing it,” Abdollahi said. “If you want it to be a networking event, it can be a networking event. It’s versatile and meaningful for everyone attending.”
Carrillo and Abdollahi both conveyed their enthusiasm and drive behind the event and its initiatives.
“It’s an exciting time to be part of this program and contribute to something meaningful,” Abdollahi said.
For more information, contact the Orange Coast College Fashion Design and Merchandising Department at (714) 432-3747 or email Michelle Craner at mcraner@occ.cccd.edu.
