If you were to check right now what is one of the biggest trends in fashion SUSTAINABILITY would most probably have a place in the answers you’ll find.
And honestly, it makes sense. We’ve been living in a consumerism driven world for too long and now we’re reaping the “rewards” of that behaviour. With the fashion industry being one of the biggest polluters closely following big oil companies, being deemed responsible for around 10% of the global greenhouse gas emissions – slow fashion, sustainable fashion practices and purchasing consciously are more important than ever.
Slow fashion is at the heart of Ikigai Labels and the entire platform Helene built, trying to push out companies that are just as cool, even better, more unique than the fast fashion out there. All while making sure that the curated items and brands are chic, innovative and always fashionable. While we are all too familiar already with recycled clothes, ethical fashion, eco-conscious materials and vintage items, a new trend has emerged and gained attention in 2021 – upcycling.
So, what is upcycling exactly? Repurposing, reworking old clothes or items into new fashionable items, from bags to jewellery and coats. This method allows old clothes to prolong their life, instead of going to waste. And if you ask me, the best part of it all is that the end product is unique, with a story behind and a strong attitude! Upcycled brands and items come in all shapes and forms, so let me give you some hints on some uber-cool brands you’ll find on Ikigai Labels.
This slow fashion women’s brand has upcycling at its heart. Farewell Frances takes vintage items and used antique textile of all sorts and turned them into some unique fashion pieces, where no 2 items are ever the same. Truly special I’d say! Below find one of my personal favourites from the Ikigai Labels selection.
Ketevanna defines themselves through their responsible fashion brand status. The design process for their consciously made items starts in London, and comes to life, using ethical and low impact materials. The brand is run by the mother-daughter duo Ketevan and Anna, where the mother brings in the expertise and the daughter the creative direction. The final result is a unique brand created with passion and a strong message – empowering women and creating fashion that’s good for both the consumer and the environment.
Local Amsterdam born Masha Maria has upcycling at its heart, part of its brand identity. The fellow Amsterdam brand is focused on coats, made from vintage Dutch wool or locally sourced wool blankets handcrafted into individual unique garments. You will truly be one of a kind wearing a Masha Maria creation.
Duo Julia and Thebe, founded JUBE JWLS with the wish to create something beautiful without creating more plastic waste. Instead, they found the perfect alternative, creating their rings from all sorts of recycled plastic items such as old DVDs or broken Tupperware and the result is just…well I’ll let you see for yourself!
Bold, bright and fun - that’s how BO DOIR, defines their brand. This Amsterdam based company takes 100% vintage silk scarfs and gives them a new life, integrating them in sweatshirt – how cool is that? Need I mention that the final result is truly unique and quite impressive? Take a look for yourself and find their uber-cool and sustainable sweatshirt on Ikigai Labels.
