Upcycling is the practice of giving a garment that could go to waste a new lease on life. This could mean deconstructing it entirely and creating something new, or just adding a few embellishments here and there. It is a creative practice that limits waste. And although taking a pair of scissors to an old pair of jeans may feel daunting, it allows us to engage with ways of styling and fashioning that exclude mindless consumption.
To help you get started, here are South African designer and creative director of LaaniRaani, Shamyra Moodley’s three tips on how to give upcycling a go if you’ve never tried it before and are feeling nervous to begin:
1. Allow yourself to experiment
St….art – think of upcycling as art! That way you let go of the need for perfection. Start small. There’s satisfaction in mending, wonder in creating, and an unexpectedly compelling value in investing nothing but your time. Additionally, upcycling opens up a world of possibility at no expense. If you have children, I highly recommend inviting them to Co-Create.
2. Reflect on what you like (and dislike) about the garment
Do you appreciate the fabric, the fit, or perhaps something sentimental about a certain item you no longer wear?
If you enjoy the fit and finish of the garment, investigate its inner workings. It’s a free pattern that will fit you. Trace the garment or start unpicking and using actual garment pieces for a future pattern. Unpicking a garment is a masterclass in garment manufacturing, I assure you! Bonus: save the hardware (buttons, zips, and embellishments) for future masterpieces.
If it’s the fabric you love but the fit not so much, consider having the garment tailored to fit you. Sometimes changing the hemline, and sleeves, or even upgrading buttons can make a world of difference. There are millions of DIY YouTube videos to get you started or find a local tailor to make the alterations. That way you are creating employment and co-creating something bespoke you love and therefore are less likely to discard.
3. See the world as your (upcycling) playground
Don’t stop at upcycling with clothing. Fabric scraps make for beautiful pieces of wall art, tapestries, quilts, book covers, jewellery, and just about anything your mind can conjure. Start small, dream big, and have fun!
About Shamyra Moodley:
Shamyra Moodley is the founder of fashion brand, Laaniraani. Through the unique fusion of art and design, Laaniraani pays homage to classical craftsmanship, while working with a small, highly skilled team of artisans creating one-of-a-kind sustainable pieces. It is accountant-turned-creative Shamyra Moodley’s hope that her collectable pieces give you and future generations much happiness, hope and kindness.
- Cover image: Supplied by Shamyra Moodley
