'Project Prom' scheme sees ex-pupils donate dresses to Ayr school in bid to fight fast fashion

A unique way to shop for prom dresses is not only helping to fight fast fashion but also ensure all pupils can feel a million dollars at the biggest social event on the school calendar.

'Project Prom by Kyle Academy' was set up by geography teacher Olivia McIlveen and modern studies teacher Holly Goldie in a bid to provide pupils from across South Ayrshire with a sustainable way to sell and shop for prom dresses.

The duo, who have already received a huge since announcing Project Prom last week, are determined to source prom wear for all pupils on different budgets, as they understand the glittery bash can be costly.

Dresses - some new with tags and some pre-loved - which are being sold will be posted on the ‘Project Prom by Kyle Academy’ Facebook page for potential buyers to browse, before a pop up shop event at the school on Thursday, March 9.

Students will get exclusive access to the shop from 4-6pm, before opening to the public at 6pm.

Former pupils have been helping Mrs McIlveen and Miss Goldie with the initiative by donating their old prom dresses (Alasdair MacLeod/Ayrshire Post)

Changing facilities will be available so buyers can browse and try on dresses before they say yes to the dress.

Olivia said: “One of our colleagues within the school, Mrs Raleigh, heard about a similar idea that was happening at a school up in Glasgow.

“We thought it was a really good idea and we decided we would run with it.

“We thought making a Facebook page would allow people to browse and then with our event they can still get the experience of trying on a dress.

Olivia and Holly want to see every pupil enjoy their prom event, no matter their budget (Alasdair MacLeod/Ayrshire Post)

“When people sell on Facebook you don’t get the same experience, so we wanted people to still get the nice prom experience of trying on and buying a dress - and doing it in a sustainable way.

“Also because everyone was talking about the cost of the day, it was important to us that everybody was able to get hold of a dress, because they are so expensive.

Olivia added: “Some dresses have been kindly donated, some are £50 and some go up to about £500.

“There’s a big range of prices and sizes, so it’s very inclusive for all pupils.”

Suits are also welcome as part of donations.

Former pupils or anyone looking to either donate or sell prom wear is encouraged to message ‘Project Prom by Kyle Academy’ on Facebook.

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