Two Perth fashion students have proven that style and sun protection can go hand-in-hand after taking out top honours in Cancer Council WA’s 2025 SunSmart Fashion Project.
Curtin University student Marie Guelden, 23, impressed judges with her zero-waste handkerchief-style skirt. Her design combines sustainability and sun safety, made from 100 percent organic cotton and planned carefully to ensure no fabric was wasted.
“The skirt features two functional pockets created from fabric offcuts, hidden within pleats at the waist,” she said.
“I made sure the shortest points of the skirt fell to the knee and used a medium-weight fabric to give it structure while keeping it breathable for summer.”
Marie said she had never considered sun protection in her designs before entering the competition but has learned how important it is.
“It showed me how necessary it is in fashion for young adults, especially in Australia’s harsh climate,” she said.
“I think there can be a stigma around being SunSmart, particularly among young people, as it isn’t always seen as cool. As a designer, I believe there’s a responsibility to change that.”
She said winning the award has given her confidence to continue creating sustainable and purposeful designs.
“It shows that style and purpose can go hand-in-hand,” she said.
“I hope people feel confident, comfortable and stylish while knowing they are protected from the sun.”
North Metropolitan TAFE student Andrei McRobiene, 20, from Haynes, won for his bold and voluminous cocoon-shaped top, inspired by Balenciaga’s famous silhouette.
“I designed a casual buttoned-up top that’s voluminous, full and symmetrical, with lantern, a collar and a breathable drape,” Andrei said.
“I was inspired by Christobal Balenciaga’s cocoon dresses and wanted to make genderless, SunSmart street-style piece that’s both playful and protective.”
He said the competition encouraged him to think about fashion differently.
“I never really thought about sun protection before, but this pushed me to consider health and sustainability,” he said.
“I grew up with sensitive skin in a tropical country where you either avoided the sun or embraced it with little protection so Cancer Council’s message really resonates with me.
Cancer Council WA SunSmart Manager Sally Blane said the project, now in its 15th year, continues to inspire creativity and awareness.
“Each year, we’ve seen the designs become more sophisticated as students explore innovative ways to combine style, function and sun protection,” she said.
“Fashion is a creative way to start conversations about sun safety, especially when it’s designed by young people for young people.”
She said past participants have gone on top successful fashion careers with some remaining involved in the project and promoting the importance of SunSmart choices.
“These students bring the creativity to make sun protection practical, appealing and fashionable,” she said.
