Upcycling: Where There's a Will, There's a Way

When it comes to upcycled clothing, where there's a will, there's a way.  Armed with a few tablecloths, a curtain, an old wedding dress train, a silk scarf, and lot's of coffee, I set out to make something.  The results are below.

Summer Grays Dress

The skirt was a tablecloth, the bodice a gray curtain.  The collar is wedding dress satin, as is the lining.  Only the thread, zipper, and lace are new materials.

Carefree Cocktail Dress

The bodice is a gray curtain (same used for the Summer Grays dress), the belt is a vintage silk scarf.  The skirt is an upholstery remnant with a beautiful luster, and the lining is a combination of wedding gown and bed sheet.

Both of these dresses were so much fun to make!  The next time you find yourself digging through you closets to throw away old clothes or linens, pause and remember that these items can all take on a new life!

 - PJ

Introducing 80% Upcycled Frocks at Poor Jean

Upcycled doesn't have to mean lower quality.  For the summer Poor Jean will start carrying dresses, shirts, and skirts made of over 80% upcycled and vintage material with special care and attention to detail.  Each piece created from these materials may be made of 80% upcycled, but they are 100% unique!

I enjoy working with reclaimed material because of the challenge it presents.  Unlike a clean, new bolt of fabric (a blank slate) taking a bed sheet or an old prom dress and turning it into completely new garment is puzzling and sometimes frustrating, but the end product is always interesting and one of a kind.

All the material used for my upcycled clothing has been meticulously checked for defects, thoroughly washed and is guaranteed to be clean and sturdy.  Curious to see what kind of alchemy has been taking place?  Check out my bedsheet frocks below - the first two of many to come!

Upcycled Dandelion Frock, coming soon to Poor Jean. 
This dress is made of 90% upcycled materials, including the lace and buttons.

100% Upcycled Garden Party frock, coming soon to Poor Jean. 
All materials, including the lining, is reclaimed or vintage.

80% Upcycled Garden Party Strapless frock.  Soon to be on sale at Poor Jean.