Reusing old clothes to create new looks, and how thrift stores can give you great looks with minimal environmental impact.
Upcycling is in!
Why pay upwards of 500 dollars for a Nordstrom jean jacket, when you could find an old jacket and make it entirely you? Whether you are a designer whose always had their eyes on the fashion world, or an everyday consumer of Billie Eilish's latest style, upcycling can show the world who you really are!
Upcycling can have amazing effects in your community, ranging from increasing small business sales to empowering individuals. It's a great way to make a change for good!
Where do I start?
Everyone has old clothes that either no longer fits with their current vibe or is simply out of touch. Give those items a chance by selecting a few that you love, but don't think match your current dreams. Don't have any items like that? Thrift stores have tons of old clothes that are looking for new life. Any clothing you take a chance on is one that likely avoids adding to the global waste pool, so take a chance in the name of sustainability!
Simple ways for Astounding Changes
Now that you have your clothing item picked out, how can you make it scream you? There are so many ways to express art on fabric, but here are three easy ways that might speak to you.
1. Cutting, Sewing, and Stitching
If you don't mind a bit of planning, and a lot of fun mistakes, give sewing a go! Consider what pieces of the item you love, or if there are any parts that simply must go. There are so many possibilities with cutting, it really is up to your imagination. It sounds intimidating, especially to those who don't know how to sew. Fret not, basic stitching is not as hard as it seems. If you are considering altering clothes with sewing, watch the following video for some insight!
2. Embroidery
Cutting and splicing clothes together sounds intimidating, and maybe you don't have the equipment to do it. That's okay! Embroidery requires little more than dedication. All you need is a needle, thread, and an embroidery hoop. Embroidery focuses on adding little touches of personality, so start thinking about whatever is important to you. Personally, I would recommend the "Imagine We Could" lightbulb but do what speaks to you!
3. Paint
A final, awesome way to change something old into something amazing is paint! Paint can stand out, especially on plain denim or canvas. Much like embroidery, Painting really involves putting what is important to you onto your clothing. There are many ways to apply paint, but we highly recommend an acrylic paint on a jean jacket as a fun project.
Don't limit Yourself, and Challenge Others!
The three ways we talked about are awesome ways to reuse old clothes, but there are so many opportunities out there! Pinterest has enough ideas to last a lifetime, and your ideas are just as awesome. Take a chance on a new look, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Encourage your friends to try it to, and work together to create a fun culture of expressing your personalities.
Not only does this empower you and your friends, but it is a powerful statement against the fashion industry. Never forget, we are making a positive change and that Imagine We Could has your back!