Upcycling Fashion: Why This Intriguing Practice Will Become Mainstream
Ever wondered why your Granny would tell you not to dispose of your clothes? That they were “precious” no matter how battered they appeared? Well, girl, I'm here to tell you that she was indeed right. Upcycling is slowly becoming the new form of sustainability in fashion. This notable ritual refuses to be ignored, as it appears, it's here to stay! Want to know the deets? Here's the gist of it.
The Specifics
Upcycling Fashion has always been present, dating back to the past. This isn't new, it's a timeless practice that has prevailed behind-the-scenes… and perhaps gone under the radar for way too long. It's now being driven to the spotlight with recent trends pushing for a touch of character and originality in their wake. Using the 6 R's, Upcycling Fashion is rethinking what we've learned about fashion and consumption, refusing to adhere to what society has dictated over time by engaging in the repair and reuse of worn garments to reduce our carbon footprint. In cases where upcycling isn't feasible, proper recycling of the clothing items is always the better option.
Photo: Pinterest
The Process
How it's done? Well, with a touch of creativity and individuality, anything works! In other words, there are really no “rules & regulations” on how to upcycle. As long as you are repurposing your pre-existing garments to improve quality and extend lifespan (whether it be through patchwork or embellishment), that is considered upcycling and a contribution to sustainable fashion. In the process, a consumer starts developing a more conscious approach to fashion, taking into consideration the footprint they leave based on the choices they make over time. But all that simply begs the question, “How does one upcycle, and are there easy ways to do so?” Well, duh! Here are some examples of how to upgrade garments currently in your wardrobe:
p.s. you're welcome!
Patchwork
Patchwork is adding pieces or fabrics from old items to create a new garment.
Decorating & Embellishing
Embellishment is adding new trinkets to a clothing item, such as old buttons or rings, to improve the quality and overall visual appeal of a garment.
Repurposing(!!!)
This is basically using any old clothing item for something worthwhile but distinct from its original purpose. Like using an old shirt as a cleaning cloth in the kitchen or jeans pockets to create a keepsake in your room.
Other simple alternatives
Other easy ways to upcycle include crocheting into used garments to add some flair, cutting off fabric to create an entirely new look, and painting as well! This can work in any way one chooses to; after all, upcycling fashion isn't just about the end result, but the process involved in obtaining the final product.
Potential Global Impact
Over the years, the fashion industry has increased its carbon footprint, with emissions and water usage skyrocketing in the past 5 years. The industry accounts for about 10% and 20% of global carbon emissions and industrial wastewater, respectively. These may seem small in comparison to the energy and manufacturing industries; however, the manufacturing process alone, in the fashion industry, is responsible for about 25% of greenhouse gas emissions. And the numbers keep rising! At this rate, we'll soon be trapped in a contaminated environment, with water shortages and breathing masks over our heads. No trees, just congested roads and Artificial Intelligence's dominion over humanity… Okay, maybe that's a bit extreme. My point is, the negative consequences are bound to catch up to us eventually. And it'll be in this generation, not the next! Not at the rate at which the climate keeps changing every year. Thus, I'm glad (and very grateful) that this practice is gradually being normalised. Upcycling Fashion is an integral part of the slow fashion movement; it paves the way for resource conservation, lower pollution trends, and a better standard of living in the long run. It's the “lifesaver” we need at this time. It may not unravel the core issue, but it's most definitely a step in the right direction!
What I absolutely love about this practice is the way it blends creativity with sustainability, allowing one to express themselves wholly, whilst making the choice to consume consciously - it's a breath of fresh air for those who love to express their art through fashion. As I like to say, “fashion is such an alluring aspect of art, truly!”
Fun, innovative, and with the capacity to be incorporated into diy projects - this is what a true “wardrobe upgrade” is all about. Personally, upcycling (and my granny) has taught me that a garment's lifespan doesn't have to end when it's torn or seemingly worn out; it's simply just begun! Sounds cliché, but it's true - the primary purpose of upcycling is, in fact, repurposing items!
Photo: Pinterest
Still don't know where to begin? I recommend reading Wear, Repair, Repurpose by Lily Fulop. This book guide provides in-depth instructions on how to upcycle and combine it with your unique style. And don't worry about the practical knowledge, girl - it's beginner-friendly ;)
Until next time ♡
XOXO, The Fashion Stock Market
Cover Photo: Pinterest
Editor: Felicity Field
