The Re:Fashion Wardrobe: Sew Your Own Stylish, Sustainable Clothes

Refashioning—the act of taking discarded clothing or textiles and restyling them into a new piece—is an eco-conscious way to reuse items that may be out of style, slightly worn, or simply unwanted. Lawrie, who created the Refashioners challenge to encourage sewists to use reclaimed textiles for garment sewing, shares her extensive knowledge of sustainable sewing in this thoughtful guide. She encourages sewists to create a “capsule wardrobe,” a curated, practical collection of garments that are timeless and of good quality. There are several projects, from a simple sleeveless shift dress created from three T-shirts to a full-scale refitting of a pair of oversized blue jeans. Each activity includes step-by-step instructions with ample photographs, along with tips and tricks for sewing success. The aesthetic is generally minimalist, featuring loose-fitting, boxy garments in neutral colors, but sewists interested in experimenting with more fitted or embellished clothing can consult the techniques chapter for ideas on creating refashioned items that suit their personal style.