Thrift Flip: Easy Ways To Upcycle Your Wardrobe (And Help The Environment)

Chi Ilochi
2 minutes ago
3 min read

One of the best places to shop is your own closet! With trends at everyone’s doorsteps, and the temptation to shop and have the latest and greatest, there is grounding that can be found in upcycling and re-curating the wardrobe you already have. Upcycling helps the environment and awakens the creativity within you that may be dormant.

These three fashion enthusiasts, experts and creatives have shared their thoughts on upcycling, and it’s a sight to read. Check it out below!

Imani Batts (CEO Of Catherine Trendz & Sustainable Style Enthusiast)

"My rule of thumb is if I haven’t worn it in over six months, I will attempt to upcycle the garment.

YouTube and Pinterest have easy DIY no sew or sewing upcyles to elevate your closet. My three favorites are, no sew shirt tote bag, t-pillows (old graphic shirts upcycled into a pillow), and adding embellishments to jeans."

Lauryn Parks (CEO Of BadBitchThriftin)

"I think cutting up old t-shirts is a great first start. When it comes to old t-shirts we don’t want to give/throw them away just yet, I suggest cutting them in a few ways, crop top, cut the sleeves off, or cut out the graphic patch that we’re holding onto, and sew/safety pin/glue it onto a hoodie/sweatshirt or onto a better shirt. This way we preserve the thing we’re holding onto while taking up less space.

I don’t know if it would be considered up-cycling but I recommend people try to wear garments in different ways than they were intended to be worn. And by that I mean this: so many shirts can be skirts if you look at them differently.

Dresses can be worn/styled with t-shirts, used as layering pieces over turtlenecks or under t-shirts and made to look like a skirt. When longer/midi skirts aren't serving us anymore, we can cut them shorter to show off a little leg because it’s warmer outside. Instead of buying a whole new mini skirt, we can alter what we have in the closet.

I think about things that aren’t necessarily “clothing” and how we can wear them like scarves. Scarves serve many purposes, from head wraps to keeping us warm in the winter and overall fashion statements. I personally love to wear them as tops, skirts, dresses, however I can turn the item into a whole outfit I will!

When it comes to getting rid of clothing, try donating to nonprofit organizations first, any organization that helps our unhoused neighbors, then giving them to thrift stores."

Cynfanee Monet (Model & Artist)

"Up-cycling your wardrobe is not just a fun way to express your unique style, but it also comes with a bunch of great benefits for our planet! I know it might sound challenging at first, but trust me, upcycling can be super simple and enjoyable. Personally, I attended YouTube University with a degree in Pinterest to pick up some amazing tips and tricks on transforming old or thrifted clothes into something fabulous. The best part is, all of the classes are free!

Another simple option is to connect with your friends and family for help—especially grandmas! They've got a knack for DIY tricks, even if it's just a quick stitch. Not only do these creative projects let you show off your flair, but they also help the environment by cutting down on raw materials like cotton, silk, and wool, plus they can spare animals from harm since some fabrics come from animal skins.

And the cherry on top? Upcycling is super budget-friendly! Overall up-cycling is a really fun and eco-friendly way to revamp your wardrobe to give it a fresh new look!"

As you can see, It’s never too late to re-energize your wardrobe, stylish mind, and personal style. With Spring here and Summer right around the corner, now’s the time to put it into practice.

Style your favorite up-cycled outfit and tag us @nubianimpulse for a chance to be featured!