The 2026 Business Challenge showcased 9 incredible pieces created by talented trash fashion designers and material manipulators all dedicated to sustainable practices. BBT Architects – Sherry Jako; Fashion Workshop – Qristy Kurtz; Gear Fix – Nico Brilmyer, Kate Weatherholtz; Lonza – Thyia Scott, Nahi Ortiz, Alden Dupras and Kari D’Angona; Mountain Burger – Kelly Powell; QuiltSmart – Mattie Rhoades; ReGroup Thrift/ReCoHere – Tanner Stonerock; Restore – DeeDee Johnson; and Subaru of Bend – Brenda Jackson, gave it their all and showed us how thinking outside of the box with materials can uplift sustainability through creativity and fun. It was the closest audience vote ever!

And the winner is…. ReStore, with Circuit Couture, taking home the 2026 Rubbish Renewed Coveted Trash Trophy! Congratulations ReStore!

ReStore – Circuit Couture – Auction Item! Designer: DeeDee Johnson Model: Lynoa Blakely. This vest-skirt ensemble is made from discarded computer motherboards, broken keyboards, tattered banners, flags, t-shirt rags, and salvaged strapping, textured with wire, beads, buttons and broken chandelier parts.