Upcycling: definition
The creative process of transforming discarded or unwanted materials and products into new items of higher quality or value.
Upcycling in fashion involves taking existing garments, textiles, or waste materials and transforming them into new products of equal or greater value. Unlike recycling (which breaks materials down), upcycling retains or enhances the original material's integrity. Examples include redesigning vintage garments into contemporary pieces, creating new collections from fabric offcuts, transforming deadstock material into new products, or remaking end-of-season stock into new designs. Upcycling reduces waste, conserves the energy used in original production, and can produce unique, high-value items.