Fast fashion is having a hugely negative impact on the environment, so when a new fashion brand launches putting eco-friendliness at the forefront, it’s always refreshing to see.
We spoke to liverpool-based fashion designer Chamini Lakmali of ReDefine, who has launched her new collection of recycled denim jackets that are perfect for summer.
Tell us about you
I am originally from Sri Lanka, but I’ve lived in Liverpool for the last three years, I have a background in fashion merchandising and marketing. So, while running ReDefine I also work as a freelance stylist and social media/content writer for other fashion brands based in the North West.
While doing my masters degree I researched heavily into sustainable production methods and innovative techniques. As a result I created a collection of recycled denim jackets using laser cutting. So when I graduated I continued making them and saw a market niche, that will allow not only to offer trend-led designs to the generation Z but also help lower the negative impacts caused by the fashion industry.
About ReDefine
ReDefine is a brand designed for the eco-conscious millennials. My sole vision is to offer guilty-free fashion to our present and future generations. The current product portfolio consist of laser cut recycled denim jackets, organic slogan t-shirts and eco-friendly accessories. Brand’s ultimate mission is to deliver style to shoppers worldwide without hurting the planet, because we all know that there is no planet B. All products are made in the UK and production is done in small batches as per order to avoid wastage. Denim jackets are sourced from charity shops and recycle centres. They are dyed using natural dyes, laser cut in to patterns and re-stitched back to create a new jacket. T-shirts are made from GOTS certified organic cotton and printed using low impact ink. Batik earrings are made from fabric waste collected from tie dye manufacturing plants.The brand also offers bespoke service to customers and commissions for one off designs. In most cases customers bring an old jacket they need a revamp on rather than throwing it away.
Here is the link to the brand’s website https://www.redefinedesigns.co.uk/
Where do you take your inspiration from?
Initially I used cross cultural references, anything with intricate details such as Sri Lankan tribal dancing costumes, Moroccan berber community facial tattoos etc.. but now most of the laser cut patterns come from architecture. Anything with details and shapes.In terms of slogan t-shirts, the prints are always inspired by what is on trend. Anything colourful, fun and girlie. It is a quirky addition to the brand.
Fast fashion is having a huge impact on the environment. Do you think recycling clothing items is the way forward?
Absolutely.. and not just clothing, we need to look at recycling and re-using everything we can, specially when it comes to fast moving consumer goods. We need to take a break from consumerism and think twice before we make our purchases. The need for ‘stuff’ is exhausting and at most times unnecessary as we can easily find recycled and reduced-waste alternatives for all of these.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to upcycle their old times?There are so many ways to upcycle items, but always look at the process. Although the end purpose is recycling sometimes the process is not very lean and sustainable, so make sure from start to end the process is value-adding and not just the end result.
What’s your favourite piece you have ever created?
The first denim jacket I made for my MA project (it is featured on the brand’s home page). I didn’t have a background in sewing and making or laser cutting when I started this so I had to learn it all from scratch and this was the first jacket I made by myself.
What’s next for ReDefine?
I am very excited to launch a menswear collection in Summer and also looking forward to offering laser cutting and natural dyeing workshops, so you can recycle and re-make your own jackets.
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