I strive to implement sustainable methods into all areas of my design process. I always try to be mindful of what I buy and believe the most sustainable garment is the one you already have. With this in mind, I like to revamp, redesign and transform old clothes rather than buying new. Consumerism is something we all need to work on, as the desire for new clothes give traction to the fast fashion industry.
This crushed velvet kimono was bought from a charity shop for £4. After 2 years instead of redonating it I decided to transform it into a backless crop top.
These old jeans were going to be put in the bin. To get a few more years out them, I redesigned them into a distressed demin skirt.
I bought this shirt from a charity shop to crop it, so with the leftover fabric I made a spaghetti strap crop top. I got 2 for 1 for only £3.
After my uni collaboration project with Halley Stevensons, I had about 1.5m leftover fabric. Instead of getting rid of the material there was just enough to make myself a pair of shorts.
After I finish a semester at uni I will usually have leftover fabric. I always keep it for some home projects but sometimes I only have about half a metre's worth. Bucket hat's are a great way to use up small amounts of material when there is not enough for larger garments. And you can never have to many hat's!
Instead of throwing out my old work shirt, I decided to upcycle it. I cut off the collar and reshaped the neckline and length, adding darts in the back and front to the bust point. I elasticated the shoulders so the shirt would hold a better shape.
The little red dress revamped! My old red dress had some gorgeous chiffon fabric that I didn't want to waste so I cut it off and transformed it into the sleeves for this top. The red velvet fabric was gifted and to use it up I combined it with the chiffon sleeves to create this square-necked crop top.
Two jumpers I didn't really wear anymore, combined into one. I added the decorative embroidery stitching to create a more streetwear/e-girl style.
An old shapeless, oversized dress I had in the wardrobe for years, turned into a fitted slip dress with an added slit. I really love how this one turned out and how flattering it was on.
A Christmas jumper-turned 90s fitted cardigan. I loved the bell sleeves and fluffy cuffs of this green jumper, but I wasn't a fan of the fit. I decided to bring in the sides and open the front by adding buttons.