Stacey J Lee

We have come across many varieties of upcycled clothing and garments, but I have never seen such amazing pieces as the ones by Stacey J Lee's. The staple clothing we oh so love, our jeans and t-shirts have been given a true breath of new life from the designers latest collection name 'Re(-)creation'. 

" Re(-)creation comprises one-of-a-kind hand-knit accessories, sweaters and dresses made entirely of discarded, damaged, or sample garments. But the eye-popping, versatile pieces, which literally transform in some cases, are far from ordinary."

The one-of-a-kind garments are reconstructed from merchandise that has been donated by local designers and fashion companies, all materials that are used in the line are unworn leftovers, samples and/or damaged garments. 'Working outside the traditional methods of sewing and patternmaking, the garments undergo various processes of deconstruction in order to be restored as new, and often unexpected creations because of the nature of this system...'

'The first collection for this line begins with one of the most basic staples of the American culture t-shirt and jeans.'

2009

 

'Lee didn’t encounter any resistance when she asked local designers and apparel companies for clothing donations, although her requests did raise eyebrows. “They were curious and a bit suspicious as to why I would need all of these clothes,” she tells Ecouterre. “But once they saw my work in progress, they were more than happy to donate their discarded clothes.” In fact, some of the clothing had been sitting in storage for more than 10 years, Lee adds.

Along with a yen for sustainability, Lee also has an eye for fit and design—all of her pieces drape perfectly on the body. Several "transformer" pieces fulfill multiple functions, including a jumpsuit that morphs into a sweater and a dress that you can throw on as a shirt.

Upcycling may not be the only way to green the industry but eliminating waste from our landfills is a fine start.'

Amazing and truly inspiring work.