Two Perth fashion students have been announced as the winners of Cancer Council WA's 2025 SunSmart Design Challenge, with Curtin University maintaining its strong involvement in the program and North Metropolitan TAFE students once again showcasing their talent.
Twenty-year-old Haynes local, Andrei McRobiene, from North Metropolitan TAFE, wowed the judges with a voluminous, cocoon-shaped garment featuring lantern sleeves, full-length coverage, breathable cotton fabrics, and playful streetwear styling.
While Curtin University winner, Marie Guelden, was awarded for a zero-waste, handkerchief-style skirt designed with both sustainability and sun safety in mind. The skirt, made from medium-weight cotton with a dense weave for UPF protection, offered breathability, structure, and movement, while its length ensured adequate coverage.
Mr McRobiene said he took inspiration from luxury fashion brand Balenciaga.
"I've always loved Cristobal Balenciaga's cocoon dresses from the past, so I used that influence to make a genderless SunSmart streetstyle piece," Andrei said.
I grew up with sensitive skin in a tropical country where you either avoided the sun or embraced it with little to no protection, so Cancer Council WA's sun protection advocacy really resonates with me.
Ms Guelden said she wanted to create something playful and stylish whilst also meeting SunSmart guidelines.
"Winning this award is an amazing opportunity as a young designer trying to make an impact in the industry," Marie said.
"It shows that style and purpose can go hand in hand, and it has given me the confidence to keep creating thoughtful and impactful designs."
Cancer Council WA SunSmart Manager, Sally Blane, congratulated the winners and said the project is a powerful way to combine creativity with cancer prevention.
"Now in its 15th year, the SunSmart Fashion Project has grown to include both Curtin University and North Metropolitan TAFE, giving a broader pool of emerging designers the chance to create stylish and sun-safe garments," Ms Blane said.
Clothing is one of the simplest and most effective forms of sun protection, and these talented students have shown that SunSmart fashion can be both protective and stylish.
Awarded a limited run, the winning garments will be available for purchase at Ruck Rover General Store, 242 William St, Northbridge, from 21 October 2025.
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