Styling Ukrainian Upcycled Denim with Thrifted Finds

“THIS! This is how I wanted to style this top in Rome last spring,” I said, putting this look together. Last time this Omelia denim button down saw the light of day was on the last day of our 2-week honeymoon in Rome, paired with a white tube top and white cotton shorts – the only 2 clean items left after 14 days of travels. This time, the iconic button down came out in Battery Park City styled with warm tones, contrasting textures and comfortable footwear.

Hmm – “warm tones, contrasting textures and comfortable footwear” is how I’d name this look and probably my entire style and aesthetic. You’ll rarely see me in bright colors these days, unless its a statement piece or something hand-knit by my mom. She recently created this bright red chunky knit sweater of all our dreams… I digress.

This post is about styling layers, thrifting items that would otherwise be wildly unethical and a quick lesson on upcycling, featuring a gorgeous innovative brand from Ukraine: Omelia.

SEASON OF LAYERS

Spring is the season of layers, where the weather hasn’t made up its mind… Especially in NYC where we get 5 surprise springs between frigid winter days.

It’s all about finding that perfect balance between warmth and breathability. Combining prints and textures can add depth to your outfit, like mixing florals with stripes or denim with plaid. I always joke that to look like a street style icon, just think of the most unlikely wild pairing in your mind, pair and layer it and you’re in. Warm tones like mustard yellow, burnt orange, and deep reds are not just reserved for fall – these evoke a feeling of coziness in early spring when days are still short and temperatures fly up and down. I decided to pair indigo denim and intricate blog detailing with mustard brown thrifted leather jacket, ecru faux leather pants and my favorite comfy sneaker: Converse. I love the clashing of all the textures in this look: delicate asymmetric rhinestones, denim, leather, sneakers – there’s a lot going on, yet somehow it all works together – and in my opinion, due to the color combo. Indigo + ecru + mustard isn’t a risky mix, so a safe palette combined with a chaotic syllhouette create a solid balance.

Thrifring

Thrifting isn’t just about snagging a bargain; it’s about making a positive impact on the environment too. By giving pre-loved items a second life, we reduce the demand for new products and the resources needed to produce them. Depop is a fantastic platform for thrifting, offering a wide selection of curated secondhand items from sellers all over the world. It’s like a treasure hunt, where you never know what unique pieces you might uncover. Plus, buying from individual sellers means you’re supporting small businesses and independent sellers, rather than contributing to fast fashion giants. Much like 50% of the items in my closet today, I got this pre-loved vintage genuine leather jacket on Depop, along with a black version from a different seller.

Thrifting allows me to be my shopaholic fashion-loving self without ruining the environment, because on this blog – we care about the impact we have on this world.

Also on this blog, we talk about ethical fashion, brands and trends transforming the industry and we also support Ukraine – quick break to donate $5!

Support the Armed Forces of Ukraine through donations for tactical & military aid.

Support the Armed Forces of Ukraine through financing purely defence initiatives. 

Support my hometown – Sumy. Money raised is used to support territorial defenses.

Support a volunteer association “Zgraya” – helping soldiers, civilians & animals.

Donate to purchase medicine to send to wounded soldiers & hospitals on the front lines.

Org helping animals during the war – shelters, zoos, eco parks, farms and more.

OMELIA

And where did I get this gorgeous denim piece? Omelia.

A Ukrainian upcycling brand on a mission to redefine beauty and sustainability. By recycling vintage and deadstock shirts, Omelia not only prevents these garments from ending up in landfills but also gives them new life and purpose. Their approach to design is all about inclusivity and acceptance, celebrating diversity in all its forms. Through their innovative upcycling process, Omelia creates one-of-a-kind pieces that not only look good but also do good for the planet. With each purchase, you’re not just buying a piece of clothing; you’re supporting a movement towards a more sustainable and inclusive fashion industry.