A Global Guide To Upcycling And Recycling Your Closet

Inevitably, there will be pieces in our wardrobe that we no longer wear – whether it’s because they no longer fit, or they’ve become worn down over the years. But fear not. While textile recycling is still quite rare, there are initiatives which are leading the way.

A clever designer like the New York-based Emily Nam can turn your old pants into a dress, where the UK-based company Kimai can recycle the gold and stones from one piece of jewellery into another. Then there are labels like Eileen Fisher and COS, which will accept and resell gently used styles – some will even offer a credit off your next purchase when you donate. Explore these options below. 

Don’t see your favourite? Nominate them here. 

Content

This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.

Your Eileen Fisher clothing never needs to be thrown out. Since 2009, the company has taken back over 1.9 million pieces of their own clothing to resell through their Renew platform. 

Since 2021, Eva Joan has been refreshing old garments with creative, funky embellishments at their downtown New York shop.  Designer Priya Ahluwalia launched an app in partnership with Microsoft in 2021 that enables members of the public to donate their used clothes in exchange for store credits for her brand’s e-commerce site. This retail space specialises in turning one’s waste into futuristic fashion, by breathing new life into pre-loved clothing.

First launched in 2013, H&M’s Garment Collecting programme aims to keep used clothing in circulation for longer. Simply hand in your old clothes, by any brand and in any condition, and receive a thank you voucher to use towards your next purchase. The Swedish retailer works with I:CO to organise your clothes for resale, reuse and recycling.

This personal consultation service for upcycling garments encourages collaboration between its community of customers and designers, who must meet Reture’s criteria, based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, before signing up. The founders of Swedish Stockings, Linn Frisinger and Nadja Forsberg, have launched a recycling club aimed at cleaning up the hosiery industry. Simply send in your old tights and stockings and receive a 10 percent discount on your next purchase from the brand. 

Ship bags of unwanted clothing off to Thrift+ and the online platform will catalogue and sell it for you in exchange for charity donations, Farfetch credit or both.  Launched in 2022, Balenciaga’s Re-Sell program gives its pieces a second life. Currently available in the US, UK, Italy, France and Singapore, you can book a collection or in-store drop-off for your items.

Once sold, you can cash out or receive a store credit worth 20 per cent more.  All jewellery deserves to be worn, says London-based brand Kimai, which redesigns old pieces, by recycling the metal and using existing stones, into new treasures for its clients.  London-based designer Helen Kirkum not only provides a bespoke footwear upcycling service on her website, but she also offers a Sneaker Sculpture Workshop where participants can learn to create their own.

London-based ELV Denim now offers made-to-measure and bespoke services to further advance their waste-free production strategy, while enticing customers to buy less and better. The American intimates brand Knickey’s recycling program will accept used undergarments and turn them into new materials such as insulation. Those who donate get 15 percent off their next purchase. 

Upparel is Australia’s premiere textile collector from individuals and businesses alike. A certified B-Corp, it has diverted over 1 million kilograms of textiles from landfills.  After collecting textiles from schools, residential buildings, offices, and more in the TriState area, WeCycle then either recycles or repurposes them.

Revive your garments with Sydney’s Cullachange, which will dye your clothes a fresh new colour. 

ecco listed on couponmatrix.ukgold-boutique listed on couponmatrix.ukmuziker listed on couponmatrix.uknuman listed on couponmatrix.uksmyths listed on couponmatrix.ukwestern-union listed on couponmatrix.uk
ecco listed on couponmatrix.ukPut your best foot forward with Ecco and give your shoe rack a high quality revamp for a low cost price. With a range for men, women and children alike, Ecco has made its name on practical yet stylish footwear that helps you stay active and look good while you do it. Don’t forget to add an Ecco discount code to your order, and whether you’re looking for razor-sharp footwear to wow at your next event or super-cool sneakers to hit the Great Outdoors, you won’t have to break the bank.
gold-boutique listed on couponmatrix.ukShop stylish, unique jewellery for less at Gold Boutique. We’ve brought together the best ways to save on statement and on-trend pieces for men and women, from free delivery deals to money-off codes! Gold Boutique is your go-to for high-quality gold and silver jewellery that doesn't cost the earth. Make the most of a Gold Boutique discount code to save on a stunning gift for someone special, or to treat yourself to a new look that will elevate any outfit.
muziker listed on couponmatrix.ukMuziker is a trusted online retailer of musical instruments and equipment. They offer a wide range of products from top brands at competitive prices. Muziker also offers a discount code which gives customers a percentage off their purchase. As a leading online retailer of musical instruments and equipment, Muziker is committed to offering their customers the best possible prices on top-quality products. So whether you're looking for a new guitar or some new recording equipment, check out our page and get a Muziker discount code for money off your purchase! At Groupon, we understand that finding the best deals can be a time-consuming process. That's why we have done the work for you and found a Muziker discount code to help you save money on your next purchase. So whether you're looking for a new guitar or some new recording equipment, get the best quality products and make sure to check out our page for the latest Muziker discount codes. Muziker offers a wide range of top-quality products at competitive prices. One of their top-performing products is their electric guitars which come in different models to suit everyone! So whether you're looking for a new guitar or some new recording equipment, they have you covered. And with our Muziker voucher code, you can save even more money on your purchase. So be sure to check out our page for the latest discount codes before you shop!
numan listed on couponmatrix.ukNuman makes men's health easy. Make the most of a Numan discount code from us to help you save on supplements, treatments and prescriptions—the Numan team is made up of licensed UK clinicians and health experts, specialising in men’s health and treatment plans. With free online consultations and free, discreet delivery, it’s easy to get started.
smyths listed on couponmatrix.ukStocking the latest and greatest children’s toys in the UK, Smyths promises fantastic quality, competitive prices and excellent customer service. From dolls and dinosaurs to slime and science kits, there’s something to keep every kid entertained at Smyths. Make every celebration affordable with a Smyths discount code and enjoy gifting your little ones for less. Action figures are always a favourite among kids, that’s why Smyths provides such a hugely diverse range, including the likes of Barbie, Paw Patrol, Lego and hundreds more. Get the whole family active with outdoor games, bikes, scooters and keep everyone feeling happy and healthy.
western-union listed on couponmatrix.ukIt’s never been easier to send and receive funds than with Western Union. With a heritage spanning back over 150 years, Western Union has grown to become one of the most secure and internationally recognised financial transfer companies of the globe. Bring along a Western Union discount code and you’ll get top value currency guaranteed – wherever you’re sending it too. Be it for business, travel or pleasure, rest assured your money is safe with Western Union.