By: Key Michel
Upcycling also known as thrift flipping; was a resale fashion trend that grew a tremendous amount of popularity in 2021.
The trend has been around since the 70s, but due to social media platforms such as Tik Tok and Instagram; thrift flipping has become extremely popular amongst Millennials and Gen-Z.
Upcycling is the creative act of transforming clothes from the thrift store, or clothing you already own in a unique way. You can achieve these transformations by sewing, using fabrics scissors; or glue. There are also other innovative ways to up-cycle that don’t necessarily require those items.
This resale fashion trend really allows you to use your imagination in a out of the box way. Thrift flipping allows you to see inside a persons creative mindset; by seeing how they can transform a skirt into a two piece set; or a shirt into a dress.
Upcycling also has a tremendous support your individuality; because there is usually only product made of it’s kind.
You can also upcycle items that aren’t clothing such as furniture, or accessories such as handbags.
In 2022, we will also start to see more resale fashion brands implement upcycled clothing. There will also be more brands that solely cater to upcycled fashion start to emerge.
Style Tip: If you have old clothing in your wardrobe that you don’t wear, but you don’t wear them; upcycle them. Give this creative outlet a try, and see what you can come up with!
