How To Deconstruct Your Own Style
A DIY guide to deconstructed fashion
By Ella Cunz, Fashion Staff
It’s no secret that the fashion industry is one of the biggest contributors to pollution around the world. The rise of fast fashion has led to overproduction and overconsumption of items that are out of the trend cycle by the end of the month. Upcycling, the process of transforming unused or unwanted items into something new, offers the perfect opportunity to extend the life of your clothes. The deconstructed fashion look is a great way to refurbish old clothes that have been lying around in your closet.
There are many ways to achieve the deconstructed look, making it a great way to personalize your style and stand out. Cutouts, keyholes and sheer layers are core elements of this style, but there are no limits to how it can be adapted. Creating your own look is easy, you only need everyday items and a creative spirit.
Shirt Weaving
Materials: any clothing item, scissors
Step 2 (Weave): Starting at the top, take the strip below the first and pull it behind and over the one above it. This should create a small loop; then grab the next strip down and pull it through. Repeat this process until your desired length.
Step 1 (Cut): Lay out the area of the garment you wish to alter and make horizontal cuts about 1/2 inch apart. Make longer cuts for a looser weave and shorter cuts for a tighter weave.
Step 3 (Tie): To finish, cut the final loop and tie a small, secure knot or bow.
Embellish
Materials: any clothing item, safety pins, ribbon, scissors
Step 1 (Design): Select the object you wish to change and decide what look you want to achieve. Pinterest is a great place to look for ideas and get inspired. You may opt for straight lines or fully cut out shapes, such as hearts.
Step 3 (Pin): Use embellishment items of your choice to reattach cut pieces. Safety pins are a simple route, but another option is to string ribbon between sections using a large eyed needle.
Step 2 (Cut): Use scissors to cut your desired shape. Remove some extra fabric around the edges to leave room for decorations.
Layer
Materials: tights, scissors, clear nail polish
Step 2 (Stretch): Wear tights with the legs as sleeves or tie around yourself. The key is creating lots of layers and overlap.
Step 1 (Cut): Use scissors to cut the feet off of any pair of tights and anywhere along the leg.
Step 3 (Secure): Use nail polish to secure cut ends of the tights and prevent fraying. Tie loose ends together and add additional pairs of tights for an even more deconstructed look.