9 Upcyclers Embracing Trash
In a world of endless textile waste, upcyclers are the thrifty angels we didn’t know we needed. Transforming fabric scraps into wearable art, upcycle designers are proving there’s no need to start from scratch. By taking what already exists, upcyclers exemplify the true beauty of sustainable fashion. Inherently unique, upcycled pieces carry a somewhat intangible value, similar to that of a luxury vintage piece. One of a kind, never to be made again — enjoy the thrill of discovering it and cherish it for years to come.
Helen Kirkum
Launched in 2019, Helen Kirkum set out to transform the sneaker industry. Notorious for waste, sneakers were in desperate need of a sustainability re-brand — and Helen did just that. Innovation at its finest, Helen Kirkum Studio is one of our all time favorite sustainable streetwear brands.
It’s By Willa
Giving Sporty Spice a whole new meaning, It’s By Willa is a UK-based brand transforming the sportswear industry. Best known for her use of discarded sports equipment, Willa has proven that one man’s trash truly is another man’s treasure. From bags to planters, It’s By Willa creates sport-inspired accessories for you and your home.
Keely
Hand-painted in LA, each Keely piece is a true work of art. Embracing the endless supply of vintage LA has to offer, Keely sources one of a kind items that she treats as canvases. Her iconic tulip designs bring just the right amount of whimsy to any outfit.
Wildrootz
The mecca of all things upcycled denim, Wildrootz reminds us that upcycled pieces are worth investing in. Meticulously crafted with the utmost care for style and fit, Wildrootz creates denim you literally won’t find anywhere else.
High Dive
When we heard, “made by reimagining overlooked textile treasures” we were sold. Based in NYC, High Dive checks all the boxes: upcycled, women-owned, and incredibly cute. Always ahead of the trend, High Dive creates pieces you never would have thought you needed — and now realize you can’t live without.
Derecycler
De Recycler, aka Noah Johnson, is one of the OG upcyclers. From jackets to jeans, Noah sees beauty in unlikely textile combinations, pairing denim with cotton to make the patchwork pieces of our dreams.
The Consistency Project
The Consistency Project, which now focuses on perfectly tailored vintage and deadstock denim, was one of our early upcycle-inspirations. Their playful patchwork served as a reminder that, while limited in nature, upcycling still allows for patterns and consistency.
Primecut
Primecut was one of the first to do it. The Portland-based brand saw the potential in unwanted textiles far before it was a trend worth paying attention to. Their textured bags, wallets and accessories highlight the playful nature of upcycling — each piece is always a bit of a surprise (and always worth waiting for).
The Series
From embroidered denim to crochet accessories, The Series is on a mission to create accessible, one a kind pieces rooted in sustainability. Based in NYC, designer Ella Wiznia is committed to creating radically inclusive pieces from discarded and sustainable materials. While her pieces range across various mediums, her vision is clear: creating wearable art that all can enjoy.