We live in a world that produces a lot of waste — like, a lot. And with the ever-changing world of fashion, it seems like we toss more clothing than we even wear.
Luckily, there are many people who are seeking to cut down on production and waste by reusing and repurposing the clothing that would otherwise be thrown away.
Things that are torn, stretched out, stained, or outgrown aren't trash to these crafty folks. They're inspiration for something new that can be created with a little cleverness, like this tailored tee we made from a much larger one.
Today, we're looking at a lot of clever crafters online who design and create their own fashions using existing clothing. This process is known as "upcycling," and it sees not-so-nice old clothes elevated to new fashion heights.
Take a look. Some of them might even inspire you to create a new piece of your own!
What do you do with old clothes? Let us know in the comments below!
The cool thing about upcycling is that you can do it yourself, if you're feeling crafty, and you can go as nuts (or not) as you want. The flowing, ethereal sleeves on this dress will make you feel like a fairy queen, but they actually started out as plain
Get the tutorial on how to do this. It's super-easy — and super-stress-relieving!
Kids' clothing is perfect for upcycling, because they grow so quickly! It's also good to practice on, since they will eventually outgrow the whole thing.
These hemmed jeans are easy to make and extend the life of the pants when you have a fast-growing little one.
Upcycling doesn't have to be all ruffles and patterns, either. This shirt was an upcycled job, but it looks sleek and modern. You could wear this to work!
A big, dumpy shirt became instantly stylish with the addition of a chiffon panel at the bottom. This crafter took her inspiration from a shirt in an online store, which are great places to get DIY ideas.
T-shirts are the easiest to work with, and there are so many options. This lace insert adds a splash of prettiness to an otherwise plain top.
You can use lace like in this upcycling project, or you can use a complementing fabric if you'd prefer not to have any see-through sections. This is also a clever way to add extra room to a too-tight shirt.
Sometimes, though, clothing can't be made wearable again. But that's okay! There are so many other things you can do, like turn them into aprons.
These cute, bright aprons were made using old shirts, and they can be made extra-cute with a ruffle or extra-useful with pockets.
And upcycling doesn't have to be hyper-girly, either. There are plenty of projects that have a more masculine feel to them, like this messenger bag.
This business-like bag was created using a jacket, which is sturdy enough to keep your belongings safe.
An upcycle doesn't have to be a huge to-do, either. A simple addition can make a huge difference.
Adding some lace or embellishment can take a boring shirt to stylish new heights.
If you know how to sew, though, you can take on larger projects.
This sack-shaped dress got a cute makeover by simply being turned around. Changing your perspective on a piece of clothing can open up all sorts of new possibilities.
And upcycling doesn't just mean you have to use old clothing. Anything can be wearable with a little imagination!
These lacy scarves were made by repurposing old table runners and pieces of lace.
Sometimes, an upcycle can be as simple as sticking something on.
A panel of pretty patterned fabric can instantly give a pair of denim shorts a facelift. It also has the added bonus of hiding wear and stains, so you can wear the shorts longer!
It can also be as simple as doodling!
Using a stencil and some fabric paint, you can add your own pattern to anything — and it's totally customizable!
If something has an imperfection, just go with it.
Rips and tears happen, but they don't have to mean the end of your favorite jeans. Instead of hiding it, celebrate the imperfections by patching them with lace or pretty fabric.
So now that you're inspired, you can finally tackle that pile of old clothes you've been meaning to toss, and breathe some new life into them!
And if you're less than crafty, there are many artists who sell upcycled clothing online.
No matter what you choose, there are countless possibilities that can also cut down on the number of new items produced in sometimes less-than-ideal circumstances around the world.
If you feel like your wardrobe could use some sprucing up, be sure to check these out, and be sure to SHARE with your friends to inspire them, too!
