All at the same time, as is so often the case.
Martina is cutting fabrics, and Rula is removing buckles and loops—they’re working on a large upcycling order. A bright red-orange color dominates the atelier as bags are now being created from the old uniforms of ERZ (Entsorgung und Recycling Zürich). The reflective stripes flash; anyone carrying a tote bag like this will surely attract attention. On the other side of the room, Justine lays out fabrics because today, the guests can choose something to take home with them. Ruth adds two sewing machines—they are the main prizes of the event. Janine is back from the shop and has brought cheese, bread, and fruit. The arriving visitors immediately get to work, assisting Janine in cutting the food and arranging it for the apéro.
Everyone has brought something: falafel, root vegetables, rice pudding, marble cake, pide, börek, chocolate cookies…
It smells international, and you start to worry that you won’t be able to try all the delicacies. More and more visitors arrive. They’ve dressed up for the day, wearing something special, with a little more make-up. They’re laughing a lot, chatting animatedly. There’s a bit of stage fright in the air.
Today is the fashion show, and everyone is taking part.
While the team goes through the program again, puts together the music, completes the list of participants, and decides on the presenter, Tamara offers everyone “Romashka,” sweets made from chamomile chocolate that she has brought with her from Ukraine. Rula has chosen a fabric from the gift table: “For my nephew, who will be born soon.” She is excited about the fabric, her new sewing project, and the baby. Fatemeh says she only came for the overlock machine. Who wins it in the end, however, will be decided by a lottery.
Maybe she'll be lucky.
Suddenly, it is quiet in the atelier. All the women are waiting in the corridor for their performance, preparing themselves. Mari has the camera ready, and the tension is rising. The music starts, and the first woman dances in. One after the other, fifteen women show their creations—items they’ve sewn for themselves in the atelier. They take a turn around a large table, walking, dancing, smiling at the audience or simply to themselves. They blow kisses, do half-turns, or keep a cool composure. Ruth moderates and asks professional questions about the clothes on display. From multi-part ensembles to a simple bag, everything is shown, appreciated, admired, and applauded.
Everything is handmade, self-created, and unique.
Ideas have been realized, taken shape, and found their unique expression. That’s fantastic and worth celebrating.
The requirements for professional models: At least 1.75 meters tall and a clothing size of 34/36; for fashion models, the age range is between 14 and 25 years old. Social Fabric celebrates pure diversity with its fashion show. Our community is very diverse: all colors, all shapes, and many languages, cultures, and stories.
A super mini skirt is displayed next to a high-necked, floor-length dress. A short, bright, oversized blouse sits next to a simple work apron. A folkloric shirt with traditional embroidery is shown next to a fashionable bag with cheeky appliqués such as hand-crocheted nipples.
This happens not by chance; this is Social Fabric!
Now the lucky fairy draws the lot. It's very quiet in the room. Which name will be drawn? Who will take home one of the two sewing machines?
You wish you could give it to everyone!
Finally, the names are read out, and everyone applauds. The two winners are congratulated, and the others are consoled. Fatemeh—your luck is still waiting for you; hopefully, it will work out next time!
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