RTR 2026 Designer Information

• First Place: $750
• Second Place: $300
• Third Place: $150

In addition to cash prizes, each designer/team will be featured in email and social media promotions with links to their business page, have the opportunity for an audience meet & greet at the event, and be invited to walk the runway with their model at the end of the show.

Judging Criteria

• Craftsmanship/quality of the design
• Creativity/originality
• Overall, head-to-toe look including hair, makeup and accessories (professional makeup and/or hair styling services are available)
• Ability to incorporate challenges into final design
• Stage presence – models do not need to be professionals, but should be confident and comfortable on the runway

Competition Details

• Entry fee is $50. This includes the bag of materials provided and entrance to the show for a team of up to 2 designers and 1 model.
• Deposit is due, along with a headshot and bio, prior to or at bag pickup. Deposit can be made via PayPal, Venmo, cash or check.
• Designers are responsible for securing a model, but assistance is available upon request.
• Design teams and model will receive a complimentary ticket  and additional tickets can be purchased for 50% off.
• Each design team must construct one woman’s outfit using items from the bag. Designers may supplement with their own materials, but at least 65% of the final outfit should come from the bag.
• Designers are asked to submit at least 25 photos documenting the making of the design, due August 1st.
• Final designs must be kept hidden until the night of the event – however – designers are encouraged to share sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes updates on social media prior to. Tag @dressforsuccessqc on FB & IG
• The top 3 designs will showcased at next year’s event, and must be left with Dress for Success Quad Cities after the show unless prior arrangements have been made.
• Designers who do not place in the top 3 are not required to donate their designs but it is much appreciated.
• Designers are highly encouraged to promote the event to their followers and other social media outlets.

Recycle the Runway: Reel Reality Show Overview

RTR Reel Reality  is a dynamic six-week fashion reality show leading up to Dress for Success Quad Cities’ Recycle the Runway on August 27, 2025. The show celebrates creativity, innovation, and sustainability, challenging local designers to craft stunning runway-ready ensembles from recycled materials. Throughout the competition, designers will tackle surprise challenges, showcase their design processes, and compete for the People’s Choice Award and cash prizes.

Concept and Theme:
Inspired by the elements of fire, earth, water, and air, the show reflects the designers’ passion for fashion, commitment to sustainability, spirit of renewal, and innovative energy. Each episode reveals how discarded garments can be transformed into breathtaking wearable art, demonstrating the potential of sustainable fashion.

Show Format:

The series consists of six episodes, with each week featuring a new challenge:

• Week 1: Designer introductions and personal style reveal.
• Week 2: Mystery Fashion Element selection to inspire runway ensembles.
• Week 3: Bag Draw Challenge, where designers receive random bags of recycled materials.
• Weeks 4–6: A series of Mystery Box Challenges focusing on accessory creation (jewelry, scarf, belt).

Designer Journey:

Designers will document their progress with video updates, showcasing their reactions, creative processes, and completed designs. The competition format highlights their problem-solving skills and artistic transformations while giving viewers an inside look at their vision and determination.

Audience Engagement:

Each week, fans will follow the designers’ journeys and participate by voting for their favorite designer to determine the People’s Choice Award. Social media campaigns, behind-the-scenes footage, and interactive polls will build excitement, ensuring a highly engaged audience leading up to the main event.

Grand Finale:

The journey culminates at the Recycle the Runway event, where designers will present their final runway ensembles before a live audience and a panel of celebrity judges. The top three 

designers will be awarded cash prizes, along with social media and promotional spotlights to elevate their careers. The People’s Choice winner will also be announced, reflecting the community’s support for sustainable fashion innovation.

Recycle the Runway is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of creativity, empowerment, and eco-conscious design, all in support of Dress for Success Quad Cities’ mission to help women achieve economic independence.