My last post was a selection of a few DIY: Aztec/Geo/Tribal print projects as found on Pinterest. Maybe you visited the upcycle Board for more DIYs and How-tos or maybe you’re asking wait, what does it even mean to “upcycle?”

The board’s description reads: “Re-wear an old garment, wear vintage, add a special detail, buy clothing made from recycled materials, or learn how-to DIY and up your fashion sense.” What’s the best part about upcycling? Just like your own style, it’s up to YOU to define!

Personally, I like to upcycle by recycling different looks in my closet. Also, I try not to buy an item of clothing unless I know I can wear it at least three different ways, especially crossing over between formal and casual. *THINK: this ’1 skirt, 5 looks’ Pin* Need a little help? Get dressed with my tips or get organized with closet consulting services like those offered by LA Closet Design.

Help the environment, save money, and go shwopping at your local Goodwill or Salvation Army to upstage the status-quo in a unique find. Can’t find a thrift store in your ‘hood? There are a number of online e-commerce retailers that offer ways to upcycle with vintage designs like Fab.com or ModCloth.

Not really a vintage fan? Other sites like Modavanti and ahalife let you Do-It-Yourself and shop by customized criteria like products made out of recycled or upcycled materials.

Feeling crafty? Go big! Grab an old belt and up-cycle it into a new bag:

or go small and just add some lace detailing to an old sweater:

Do you recycle at home?

Find a cool gym bag made from recycled materials like this Cliff Bar wrapper TerraCycle bag

or this fresh-for-summer Fruit & Veggie tote from Stop Traffick Fashion that also provides employment for Cambodian women

Like other terms in the ‘slow’ movement from sustainable to glocal, upcycle is another organic term with a variety of meanings. The holistic concept is that fashion—like food, materials, learning, and culture—should be re-used and preserved, not wasted.

So, let’s slow fashion down and upcycle.