Don’t be a Coach Clone. Accessorize your originality with these one-of-kind ‘upcycled’ clutches made from vintage finds.
Upcycled is the new vogue in green: making functional products from previous products that have reached the end of their natural life.
I bought my first Zoe Klutch – a girly, soft blue bloom exterior with a loud, fuschia dupioni silk interior- from the company’s main retailer Etsy.com ( a virtual bazaar of funky, handmade jewelry and clothing.) My second purchase was a custom-made 80’s masterpiece- my favorite, pit-stained, threadbare New Kids On the Block T-shirt transformed from an embarrassing fashion no-no to a retro-chic, Joey-tastic bag. Joey Mcintosh – forever in my heart, now forever in my hand.
Designer Kristi Kotsatos takes a sentimental article of clothing laying abandoned at the bottom of the drawer and creates a fab and funky treasure. The bag itself is sturdy and plush; the hardware is classy and cute. And it’s the perfect size for running out of the house- fits my mega-roll of keys, cell phone, lipstick, and wallet.
Clutches range from exotic and silky to t-shirt comfortable/casual soft and have brilliant jean pockets perfect for holstering a cell phone or lipstick. Each piece hand-stitched with organic thread and one –of-a-kind. Whether it’s your fav sports team, greatest concert tee, or even your group’s logo for resale, the Zoe clutch is where functionality meets eco-fashion.
Giving new life to my New Kids- rock on. Below are a few before and after “upcycle” examples:
