The power of circular community
By Lucy Marum
In my day-to-day life and here at Cirevo, I often ponder how community engagement plays a pivotal role in advancing towards a more circular economy. As a vintage and secondhand clothing enthusiast, I'm constantly seeking activities that spark creativity in repairs and alterations— or connect me with skilled individuals who can assist!
Being part of the fashion movement
Recently, I had the pleasure of attending two remarkable events that perfectly aligned with this mission.
The first was the Fashion Revolution Mend in Public Day, an annual event held globally to honour garment workers and commemorate the lives lost in the tragic Rana Plaza collapse of 2013. I joined the event at the Southampton Sewing Hub CIC, a welcoming space buzzing with activity. Arriving with a bag of items in need of repairs requiring more than just manual dexterity, I was thrilled to find a supportive community equipped with machines and expertise. Though a bit intimidated at first, I quickly found assistance and guidance from a lady embroidering patches on her jeans. With her help, I confidently tackled repairs on a thrifted dress, reviving it with renewed charm. As she wisely put it, "you can always unpick it, what have you got to lose!"
Suzie Carley (on the left) hosting ‘Mend in Public Day’ at the Southampton Sewing Hub. Photos by: Jamie Kipling
The second event was an upcycling competition hosted by Beatnik Emporium, where contestants transformed unwearable items into fashion statements. Judged by a panel including Suzie Carley, the visionary behind the Sewing Hub, the evening was a delightful showcase of creativity. Witnessing newcomers to sewing breathe new life into old materials was truly inspiring.
Both events left a lasting impact. Mend in Public Day revealed the accessibility of shared resources at local hubs like the Sewing Hub, overcoming barriers like cost and space associated with owning personal equipment. The environment was nurturing and supportive, fostering a judgement-free space where assistance was readily available. The upcycling competition showcased the transformative power of creativity in sustainability, demonstrating how discarded materials can be repurposed with imagination and flair.
Photos by: Ethan Marston
In a world where clothing waste is alarmingly high, these ‘circular community’ events exemplify a playful approach to saving the planet through mindful practices. They remind us that engaging with our communities and embracing creativity can be key in building a more circular and sustainable future.
More about Cirevo
At Cirevo we truly believe that digital technology will play a pivotal role in enabling communities to work in harmony with nature and reduce strain on our planet’s precious resources. We specialise in developing products which enable the regenerative circular economy and one planet living.
To find out more about Cirevo or to discuss your innovative solution, get in touch.
