Reviving Fashion: The Power of Upcycling and Repurposing

Abstract

The fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to global waste, with millions of tons of garments discarded each year, placing significant pressure on the environment. As sustainability becomes an increasing priority for both consumers and brands, upcycling and repurposing have emerged as powerful, practical solutions to reduce waste and extend the life cycle of fashion products. Upcycling involves creatively transforming old garments or materials into new, higher-value items, while repurposing focuses on reusing materials or garments in their original form for new purposes. This review explores the concepts of upcycling and repurposing within the fashion industry, examining how these practices contribute to environmental sustainability by minimizing waste and reducing resource consumption. It also investigates their role in fostering economic growth by creating new business opportunities, jobs, and enhancing local economies through small-scale production and artisanal collaborations. Additionally, upcycling and repurposing fuel creative innovation by encouraging designers to think outside traditional design processes and embrace unconventional materials, all while offering unique, one-of-a-kind products. The article outlines key trends, challenges, and opportunities in scaling these practices, such as supply chain issues, consumer perceptions, and production costs. By emphasizing the importance of upcycling and repurposing as integral components of a sustainable fashion future, the article envisions a transformative shift toward circular fashion, where waste is minimized, creativity is celebrated, and sustainability is at the heart of the industry’s evolution.