Making My Own Japanese Streetwear Outfit, but Ikasu

[Blair Villanueva]

I learned a new word today.

いかす (Ikasu)

“ikasu” means “revive” or “give second life” in Japanese.

I reckon it is a beautiful word, full of life and possibilities. Then I realized that I’ve somehow been using the philosophy of ikasu for all these years.

Turning unwanted clothing and old textiles into something beautiful, wearable, and full of life is one of my greatest passions. Giving a second (or third) life to discarded materials gives me a fulfillment of joy and, somehow, purpose in life.

Just like when I kept all my outgrown satin pajama sets and turned them into a colorful kimono jacket set, which is artsy enough to wear for many occasions.

I love satin pajamas! They look luxurious with their satin textures and appearance. It is only frustrating when they don’t fit me anymore, but I couldn’t have the heart to discard them in the charity bins. Most of them are well used for more than three years, have been with me during my great dreams, travel with them, bringing them to many places. My relationships with them are too precious to ignore.

It may sound odd to others, but I do treat my clothes like my good friends.
Sometimes they are better than my actual friends, to be honest.

@blair.villanueva That day when I upcycled my old pajamas into a modern kimono streetwear. #fashiontiktok#upcycling#fashion#sewingproject#learntosew#diy#kimonostyle♬ A Day in My Life - Raya

The red crochet handbag is also made using my old rayon sleepwear and combined with wool for better support.

I cut the textile into stripes and crocheted it with my old wool.

@blair.villanueva diy crochet bag using old rayon pajamas textiles + yarn. #diy#crochet#sustainablefashion#upcycling#contentsearchinsights#melbournefashion#viral♬ もう少しだけ - YOASOBI

I found this embroidered silk placemat with oriental embroidery and placed it in the center of the jacket. Somehow, it all complements each other!

I think I should bring this set on my next trip to Japan and learn more about their local ikasu technique of giving many discarded materials a second chance at life.

What do you think of this outfit?

Have you tried to reuse some of your items from your shelves or closets?



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