A Japanese-inspired dress created through the recycling and repurposing of different denim garments. The piece is constructed by layering and joining small fragments of fabric sourced from various pairs of jeans, creating an irregular composition of different shades, textures, and levels of wear. The design draws inspiration from the Japanese aesthetic of Boro, a traditional practice based on repairing, patching, and extending the life of textiles. Visible seams, frayed edges, and the asymmetric arrangement of the fabric pieces are intentionally exposed, turning the construction process itself into an essential part of the dress’s aesthetic. The combination of light and dark denim creates depth and emphasizes the handcrafted character of the garment, while the fitted silhouette, collar, and upper button detailing add structure to the design. The result is a unique piece that brings together Japanese tradition, textile experimentation, and upcycling, transforming existing materials.

MI@miandbo

Vanmade only works with clothes that are thrown away. Like these jeans trousers. I picked them from the street just before the garbageman took them. There were huge holes at the knees and a stain a little way down the leg. I decided to make two chickenpatches from denim and free styled machine stitched them including all the tiny details. Then I covered the stain with a broken egg and the two chickens are discussing this issue together. There are many ways to prevent garments from going to the landfill and I try to do my best to do my part and with that I use a bit of humor!

VA@vanmade

This bag was made from handwoven cotton scraps dyed with natural indigo, which I collected from a rural weaving community in Northeastern Thailand (Isan). The artisans harvest raw cotton plants for fiber and use natural indigo to create the deep blue color. Seeing the incredible care that goes into every stage of production made me deeply appreciate even the smallest leftover scraps. I took these pieces, patched them together, and hand-stitched them using the Sashiko technique to turn the fabric remnants into a unique, meaningful bag.

DA@darawan

This set was created from a thrifted sweater and fabric I had stashed away for years. I used the fabric to add puffed sleeves and matching shorts, then finished the front bodice with leftover trims. Even the original sweater sleeves were saved for another project.

GI@giacarrascoso

Thriftflip: I turn rejected ukay-ukay bags into high-fashion masterpieces. Faced with unsellable, wrinkled, and hole-ridden vintage bags, I chose to create art. This streetwear piece is purely hand-sewn, featuring a vibrant, custom-embroidered cat on the back. I endured hours forcing a needle through heavy canvas, leather, and rubber glue just to bring this to life. Even better? The hood and backpack are fully detachable. It’s unique, sustainable, and proof that thrift can become luxury."

AB@abykilo

An old denim jacket got a fresh start with leftover denim remnants, hand-painted details, and a whole new story to tell Photo Jeff Abate

GI@giacarrascoso

The Soul of the Stitch: Double-Upcycled ​Witness the evolution of sustainable craft. This large backpack is a third-life evolution, born from an already upcycled jacket. ​I transformed it through the art of hand-stitching for superior durability. Unlike mass-produced bags, the inner lining is rugged denim, integrated and hand-sewn directly into the outer layers to create a rock-solid core. It’s "industrial-grade" handmade armor—proving that circular fashion is a story of resilience built to last

AB@abykilo

Six months of patience, one needle, and a tribute to a legend. This 2Pac piece is entirely hand-stitched—no machines, just raw focus. I upcycled yellow-brown denim using a mix of reclaimed materials, layering different textures to capture Shakur’s spirit. Every patch was hand-cut and sewn to create this wearable mosaic. From the bandana to the "Keep Ya Head Up" lettering, it’s a labor of love and a commitment to sustainable art.

AB@abykilo

This XL Carhartt is 90 days of survival sewn into "broken" luxury. Created during a financial crisis in the Philippines, I spent three months of labor—resting only for Church—to provide for my family.​Using "mahiwagang tiyaga," I hand-stitched salvaged Gucci materials into heavy denim. No machines; just three needles and an evolved running stitch. Every panel reflects calloused fingers and the hope that art sustains life. I didn’t just upcycle fabric; I transformed a struggle into a masterpiece

AB@abykilo

Cute on Purpose = preloved fits + fabric paint play + artsy brush strokes + remnants + low waste win! #upcycler @tearsbytanye Model Halina Manalo Hair Michelle Alameda Photo Treasure Behind Jay's Len

UP@upcyclers