Re-fashioning

ABOUT RECYCLING AND REFASHIONING

“I think it’s always fun to have something new, but it doesn’t mean that everything you already have in your closet has to be thrown out, you know? Recycle.” She wants women around the world to know: “It’s totally okay — I even recommend it.” Anna Wintour.

Each year the average American throws away about 70 pounds of clothing and make up about 3% of our household waste. They end up in landfills and most don’t decompose.

Although recycling fashion is currently in vogue, this practice is hardly new. In the eighteenth century, the most valuable part of a garment was often the textile itself. Fabric was so expensive that it was reused many times over until it was worn and faded. And even then, it might still serve as the lining for other garments or was recut and refashioned to suit the trends of the time.

In the early 1900’s fast fashion took over the industry and disposable clothing became okay. This not only affected the quality of clothing but the need for cheap production as well. Quality went down in clothing, and people became more concerned with staying with the trends and finding great deals. However,  those making the clothing around the world were working in poor conditions and below minimum wage, otherwise known as sweatshops.

Today fast fashion trend is no longer being respected by Hollywood or fashion icons like Anna Wintor.. The 21st century ethical luxury has taken on a whole new dimension. Rather than bulk-buying disposable fashion with a short life, women are investing for the long term.

Refashioned and recycled clothing reduces the amount of textile waste being put into landfill and eliminates the environmental impact associated with the manufacture of new clothing. Montree recycles vintage lace, saris and trims. Our passion for sourcing the most unique and feminine materials always breathe new life into the old and create exquisite one of a kind garments. Montree offers something completely new and cutting edge by combining recycled material with organic cotton and other sustainable materials.