Did you know that on average we see about 13 million metric tons of textile waste each year globally? That's about 70 pounds per person of annual waste in the US alone. To make matters worse, only 1% of used clothes are recycled into new clothing.
RECLÈM is a movement built around a mission to alter this reality through the reduction of textile waste. A movement based on values, RECLÈM aims to product new-to-you products that are less wasteful while encouraging the consumer through education to shift their perceptions and behaviors around textiles and clothing.
"WASTE NOT, WANT NOT."
RECLÉM is a movement with a mission to reduce textile waste.
The company name RECLÈM was formed from “RE,” inspired by this concept of reusing textiles, and “CLÈM,” a combination of the initials of (C) Carissa Gabhieri,(L) Lynae Dowdell, (É) Elizabeth Schrantz, and (M) Mary Ruppert-Stroescu, the creators of the patent for textile repurposing that is used by the brand. Although only Mary Ruppert-Stroescu has stayed on, acting as CEO, the brand ethos remains unchanged. In fact, this patented process of reclaiming textile waste as a method of "textile repurposing and sustainable garment design" is what makes RECLÈM so unique. By using recycled textiles to design both the fabric and garment in one, each RECLÈM design is zero-waste and if recycled upon the end of its life, could create a circular process. Each design reflects this unique design technique, the original fibers, and the artisans behind the garments. In turn, both viewers and wearers begin to more strongly value the craft, energy, and symbolism in both RECLÈM garments and each piece of clothing in their closet.
The technology and methodology behind the RECLÈM process is constantly being reviewed, developed, and updated. As consumers, we must demand the same of ourselves: Do I know where the clothing I wear is made, and who made it? If I search for information on the brands I shop from, can I find it?
If you could shop from a brand that is transparent about their processes, would you?
