Following our article on the legendary Billy Porter and several brands pushing the upcycled style, we figured we’d inspire you to try your own take on upcycled fashion this weekend. What we love most about this creative fashion trend besides the fact that it is sustainable and kinder to our planet earth, is the fact that each garment has already had a past, and with it, its own story. Want to wear your own piece of textile/garment history with a modern twist? Then check out these three brands and their eye-catchingly creative upcycled bag designs.

Scenery

If you’re as passionate about fashion as you are about theatre and musicals, you’re going to fall in love with Scenery – a company that makes handbags, clutches, totes, etc. out of “theatre rejects”, in other words old stage backdrops, costumes, etc. Whether you want a piece of Broadway’s “Prince” or “Mamma Mia!” to carry around with you at all times, you’ll find the style and musical/theatrical background that best matches your taste via Scenery.

I Scream & Red

If you don’t quite vibe with the musical bag scene(ry), then you might want to check out the South African brand, I Scream & Red, which specializes in creating planet friendly bags using recycled seatbelts, upholstery and other locally sourced materials. These materials are then upcycled into funky, trendy bags made by people with disabilities. By supporting this innovative brand, you are contributing to a healthier planet and job opportunities for those who struggle most to find employment.

Rhetaka Foundation

A bag can do many things – it stores all our belongings, it acts as a stylish accessory and, in the case of Rhetaka’s schoolbags, it doubles as a light to use for studying. The Repurpose Schoolbag is made of recycled schoolbags that are fitted with a portable solar panel. This is charged during the child’s commute to school and will provide up to 12 hours of light for reading and homework. They are also foreseen with retro-reflective material that ensures the child’s safety on their walk to and from school.

Photo Credit: i-genius