Redress Design Award

Classics Anew Case Study

 

 CASE STUDY

CLASSICS ANEW

TRANSFORMING DENIM WASTE INTO CONTEMPORARY UPCYCLED DESIGNS

Classics Anew is a Hong Kong based brand founded in 2014 by Redress Design Award Alumna, Janko Lam. Early in her career, while working for a TV station designing costumes for a Chinese period drama series, Janko became inspired by the style of loose form robes and wide sleeves. This exposure to traditional clothing led her to adopt Chinese tailoring techniques to create the heritage inspired, modern cheongsam dresses and separates that form her design collections.

Classics Anew incorporates elements of Chinese garment construction and uses traditional fabrics such as woven silk, as well as non-traditional fabrics such as denim. Classics Anew sources denim from overstock that would otherwise be discarded – an action that is in alignment with the brand's sustainability goals.

In this case study we explore how Classics Anew is applying upcycling design technique to transform denim waste into pieces of higher value, curating a contemporary upcycled collection line reflecting Chinese heritage. Creativity, reliable waste sources and traditional craftsmanship are key. 

In this video, Janko Lam and Kazef Tang (also a Redress Design Award Alumnus now working in Janko’s team) discuss the core principles that make Classics Anew a great example of transforming waste:

  • Designing with attention to detail and craftsmanship to create a high value piece

  • Sourcing from reliable suppliers to ensure good quality textile waste

  • Understanding limitations of waste sources and designing for best purpose with creativity

  • Applying different design techniques, such as patchwork, to fully utilise a variety of shapes and sizes of textile waste. The core principle - every waste piece is valuable.

  • Setting your own sustainability goals: exploring the best approaches for your brand

  • Doing more research! Learning from designers and brands in the fashion industry to get inspired by many great examples

LEARN MORE FROM CLASSICS ANEW

Uncovering emotional connections with clothes through consumer education: Explore how Classics Anew Academy courses and workshops are enabling consumers to develop emotional links with garments, and to recognise the skilled work that goes into making clothing.