On Saturday, models will strut down a catwalk dressed in outfits made from trash at Kootenai Environmental Alliance’s 14th annual Junk2Funk fashion show. 

This year’s fashion show will feature at least 25 unique designs made from 80% recycled materials. As always, Junk2Funk designers are instructed to collect materials that would otherwise be thrown away rather than purchasing new materials.

“The designs are mindblowing, they are so unique and creative,” said event coordinator Brandi Mayes. “Fantastical, really well done, and bright and bold.”

Junk2Funk is Kootenai Environmental Alliance’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and Mayes said she hopes to raise at least $10,000. The funds raised directly support KEA’s environmental conservation efforts, including the annual Green Summit in March and K-12 educational programs. 

Mayes said Junk2Funk is still making a comeback after a three-year break during the pandemic, and finding sponsors was more difficult this year. However, a loyal fanbase returns year after year to support the event.

“People just have a great time there,” said Mayes. “It really raises our spirits to come together, and builds community.”

Besides raising funds to support KEA’s programs, Mayes hopes the fashion show will inspire people to rethink how they use limited resources, and to consider how individual choices impact the environment.

“It helps people think outside of the box,” said Mayes. 

Junk2Funk will take place at the Eagles Club, 209 Sherman Ave., on Saturday at 7 p.m. General admission tickets are $45. VIP front-row seats and VIP high-top tables are already sold out. Tickets are available online at https://events.kealliance.org/j2f-tickets-tables.