19-05-2025
Montagu mom crafts award-winning gown from Sixty60 bags
In the Western Cape Winelands, a dazzling display of creativity and sustainability took centre stage at the Meneer en Mejuffrou Boland modelling competition.
Seventeen-year-old Beate van Wyk, a matriculant from Paarl Girls' High School, captivated the audience in a stunning ballgown crafted entirely from repurposed Checkers Sixty60 and Checkers plastic shopping bags.
The mastermind behind this eco-chic ensemble was Hesmari van Deventer, a 42-year-old mother from Montagu, who transformed everyday waste into runway-ready fashion in just four days.
The inspiration sparked when Beate expressed her desire to participate in the competition's "From Trash" themed category. Initially considering overalls made from Sixty60 bags, Hesmari encouraged a more ambitious approach.