Thrift Flip: Vintage Mickey Jacket

In a world where fast fashion often dominates the scene, there's something truly satisfying about transforming forgotten items into unique, wearable art. Recently, I stumbled upon a couple of vintage throw blankets at a thrift store, each telling a story of a bygone era. Inspired by the streetwear movement and the growing trend of upcycling, I embarked on a creative journey to breathe new life into these nostalgic finds.

BEFORE

The blankets. The star of the show was a tapestry throw blanket adorned with the iconic Mickey Mouse. Its vibrant colors and retro charm immediately sparked my imagination. The front of the blanket was the classic Mickey colors, but I really fell in. love with the back side. This one blanket wasn’t enough fabric to create what I wanted, so I found another tapestry blanket that would complement it.

Front of blanket

Backside of blanket

2nd throw needed for sleeves

PATTERN

Adelaide Woven Jacket from Ditto

A cropped, square shaped style, our Adelaide Jacket has a simple round neck with two button openings at the front. Create a tailored look using the lining pattern, for a more sophisticated jacket. Or unlined, with in-seam pockets for a more casual look. Alternatively why not sew an inside bind to the cut edges and add a patch pocket for a great weekend jacket. You can get all these looks from just one pattern.

MODIFICATIONS TO PATTERN

  • Added a full lining

  • Removed pockets

  • Added 5 buttons

THE PROCESS

In an era where sustainability is gaining importance, upcycling has emerged as a powerful movement. The idea of repurposing old items into something fresh aligns perfectly with the ethos of reducing waste and promoting creativity. My decision to transform a vintage blanket into a contemporary streetwear-inspired coat was not just about fashion; it was a nod to conscious consumerism.

Streetwear, once a niche style born on the streets, has become a global phenomenon. It's characterized by its boldness, blending high and low fashion, and often drawing inspiration from diverse cultural influences. The DIY aspect of streetwear aligns seamlessly with the upcycling trend, as enthusiasts find joy in creating one-of-a-kind pieces that tell a personal story.

STYLING

Turning old into new is a journey of self-expression and sustainability. Through the lens of streetwear and the upcycling trend, my DIY coat project has become a testament to the power of creativity and resourcefulness. The precision scissors played a crucial role in this transformation, turning a vintage Mickey Mouse blanket into a contemporary fashion statement. As we navigate a world that values individuality and environmental consciousness, projects like these remind us that our choices can be both stylish and sustainable. So, next time you're at a thrift store, keep an eye out for hidden treasures, and let your creativity, paired with the right tools, turn them into something extraordinary.

Tabitha SewerComment