The term upcycling is frequently being used in the world of ethical fashion. So what exactly does it mean? Upcycling is re-using materials and items to re-create something that improves the value of the original item. Upcycling retains elements of the original item. For example, transforming an old shirt into a fabulous dress is upcycling. Upcycling itself is not new. Designers including Reet Aus (shown below) have been doing this for years. Perhaps, now that it has been given a label it will create more awareness for consumers.
Reet Aus via flickr.com
My Green Lipstick, the online ethical fashion store, have been busy upcycling to create limited -edition items for their own-label range. Vintage fabrics, buttons and buckles, vintage silk scarves and repurposed garments have been 'Lip-sticked' (received My Green Lipstick's unique re-style) to give them a new lease of life. The range also incorporates organic cotton and silk to create a collection of exclusive "ecologically sensitive" pieces.
The first items from the range will go on-line this week. I am sure all ethical fashionistas out there will be on-line before they can say Upcycle.
