Innovative robotic butterfly accessories crafted from discarded electronic components are prepared to make their first appearance at a sustainable fashion showcase in Oxfordshire.
The mechanical accessories, termed bot-terflies, represent a collaboration between Tilde.Industries, a technology enterprise based in Oxfordshire, and the Cherwell Collective community organisation.
The initiative aims to demonstrate how electronic waste can be transformed into wearable fashion items, promoting circular design principles within the industry.
The showcase is scheduled to take place at Blenheim Palace on September 29, marking the debut of the Cherwell Collective’s inaugural fashion collection following the opening of their dedicated Fashionhouse facility.
Naomi Bridges and Karen Simson headed the design team responsible for creating the robotic butterfly pieces.
This enterprise forms part of a wider countywide climate initiative called Waste Innovation Station Hubs, which receives backing from The National Lottery Climate Action Fund.
The accessories are manufactured using materials sourced from everyday items that typically present recycling challenges, illustrating how problematic waste streams can be repurposed into fashion-forward products.
Oxford University Development provided support for the partnership between the two organisations.
The runway presentation will feature work from more than ten designers, each required to utilise sustainable materials including upcycled fabrics, pre-owned garments or pioneering eco-friendly alternatives.
Now in its third year, the Sustainable Fashion Show aligns with the national Sustainable Fashion Week movement that emerged following London Fashion Week.
The initiative seeks to unite communities through grassroots action aimed at environmental improvement.
Supporting activities throughout the week encompass a complimentary clothing exchange at TAP Social Oxford on September 26, alongside an exhibition examining fashion’s environmental impact at the Vale and Downlands Museum.
The event has engaged over 360 local residents and holds official recognition as a cultural initiative within Oxfordshire.
The Cherwell Collective received the Cherwell Business Awards Sustainable Business of the Year prize in 2025, together with the Oxford Climate Award Sustainable Medium Business accolade, for their contributions to sustainable fashion and carbon reduction.
More recently, the organisation was honoured with a 2026 International Green Apple Award for Environmental Best Practice.
Several dignitaries are expected to attend the occasion, among them Anna Strongman, chief executive of Oxford University Development, alongside Calum Miller MP, who participated in the official opening ceremony for the Fashionhouse in June.
Deputy Lieutenant Robert Buckeldee, recognised for his longstanding support of climate innovation leadership, will also be present.
Ticket availability remains restricted for the event, with remaining places accessible through TicketTailor.