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. 

Tags:

bad-rhino listed on couponmatrix.ukchoice-furniture-superstore listed on couponmatrix.ukcoggles listed on couponmatrix.ukjackpotcom listed on couponmatrix.uksimply-be listed on couponmatrix.ukthe-telegraph listed on couponmatrix.uk
bad-rhino listed on couponmatrix.ukYour favourite Big and Tall menswear brand, BadRhino, makes dressing for your unique figure and height easy as pie. With a BadRhino discount code from us, you’ll be able to upgrade your wardrobe for less! From sharp suits to comfy casual wear, you'll find slick looks to suit your personal style - at a size that works for you.
choice-furniture-superstore listed on couponmatrix.ukChoice Furniture have an encyclopaedic range of furniture for every room in your house, with an A to Z of top brands on offer at prices that include two man delivery right to your front door. You may think brands like Annaghmore, Baumhaus, Bentley Designs and Mark Harris are out of reach for your budget, but Our Choice Furniture Superstore discount code will dramatically lower the price you pay and help you achieve your dream home without waiting for years before you can afford the very best.
coggles listed on couponmatrix.ukMulti award-winning Coggles has always taken pleasure in maintaining a likeable rebellious streak: Founder Sarah Bage named the chain after her ex-husband’s secretary, after discovering he was having an affair with her. Your Coggles discount code won’t get you out of any marital infidelities you may be guilty of - but will save you large quantities of cash. Their stunning range of formal and casual designs will keep you looking fabulous at all times - but do be careful with all the extra attention you’re bound to attract…
jackpotcom listed on couponmatrix.ukTired of trying your hand with your favourite jackpot solo? Say hello to Jackpot.com, a collection of syndicates for some of the UK's biggest prize draws. Put more shares in your preferred syndicate with a Jackpot.com promo code and snag a bigger share of the winnings without having to commit any extra cash. With the chance to try your hand with others on the likes of Euromillions, the UK Lotto and Thunderball.
simply-be listed on couponmatrix.ukCalling all girls with curves! Find your fashion fix with high street favourite Simply Be. Flaunt your signature style with zero limits thanks to a Simply Be discount code from us. We’ll make your spending a rewarding experience and your debit card will thank you later! Whether you’re hitting the treadmill or bundling up for a work do, Simply Be has got you covered – and we'll help you save on your shop.
the-telegraph listed on couponmatrix.ukDedicated to delivering truth for over 150 years, The Telegraph has rightfully earned its place amongst the great British newspapers. With first-hand accounts of world, political, sports, business and travel news at your fingertips, Telegraph discount codes are all that’s required to sweeten the deal and cut the cost of an annual subscription. Bolstered by a fun array of puzzles and wine recommendations, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy at The Telegraph.