In an age dominated by fast fashion, sustainability is becoming a powerful movement — and this year’s Macon Fashion Week put that ethos at center stage. Presented by Goodwill in partnership with Wesleyan College, the event titled “Responsible Runway” took place on Wednesday night at a downtown Macon gallery, spotlighting eco-conscious design and ethical creativity.
The evening showcased garments made from reclaimed materials, celebrating the art of repurposing and the personal stories woven into every piece.
Isaiah Miller’s Vision for Responsible Design
Among the featured artists was Isaiah Miller, a self-taught designer whose approach to fashion is rooted in transformation. Working out of his studio at The Creative Alternative, Miller creates statement pieces from unlikely sources — often materials donated to Goodwill.
“I went straight to the curtains,” he said, recalling how he turned drapes into a coordinated skirt and top. With precision and imagination, Miller spent just two and a half hours cutting, sewing, and fitting his creation, turning something once meant to block sunlight into a look ready to shine on the runway.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Miller, who recently returned to Macon from Charlotte, is now sharing his expertise with Wesleyan College students. His work has appeared in museums and magazines, and on this occasion, he inspired young designers to think beyond trends and embrace sustainability.
Students also presented their own creations on the runway, reinforcing the idea that fashion can be both expressive and environmentally conscious.
Expanding the Conversation
The celebration of mindful style continues Thursday with two interactive events designed to explore how clothing connects to identity and emotion.
- “Elevate Your Style” will feature a lively discussion on color theory, fashion psychology, and personal expression led by Andrea Cooke, Lakesia Toomer, Brandon Harris, Jeremy Grissom, Yurie Hayashi, Maiesha Clark, and Dr. Gloria Cissé. The event, hosted at Emerson at Plum from 6–7 p.m., will include live styling sessions by local retailers.
- Later in the evening, “Armor and Adornment” will explore the cultural symbolism of Indigenous and Drag attire. Speakers Tracie Revis and Christina León will discuss fashion as storytelling, protection, and celebration at Fall Line Brewing Co., starting at 7:30 p.m.
Both events invite attendees to express themselves boldly — because in Macon, fashion is not just what you wear, but who you are.
