Designers promote upcycled materials in sustainable fashion

Today is Global Recycling Day, and it highlights the growing trend of upcycled fashion. As the fashion industry faces environmental issues, many designers are shifting towards sustainable practices. They are using recycled materials to create stylish and luxury garments. Designer Mannat Sethi, co-founder of Graine, focuses on using discarded rubber tubes in her designs. She says this material started as an experiment but became a key part of their brand. Sethi emphasizes the idea of “consciously eclectic” clothing, which can be worn in various settings, from casual to evening wear. Ateev Anand, founder of Re-Ceremonial, also emphasizes recycling. He began working with textile waste eight to nine years ago. He creates garments using plant-based dyes from items like used temple flowers and pomegranate. Most of his fabrics are made from recycled yarn. Pratyush Kumar, founder of Pieux, takes a modern approach to upcycling. His designs incorporate a variety of recycled materials. These include recycled plastic and donated items like damaged parachutes and curtains. Kumar sources materials from various vendors and markets, ensuring a wide range of recycled textiles. The advantages of upcycling go beyond reducing waste. It helps conserve natural resources and cuts down on pollution caused by traditional fabric production. Recycled materials often have a smaller carbon footprint, making them a greener option for consumers.