top of page
ARTE.M Association

Threaded Narratives: A Journey into Eco-Fashion with the Upcycling Maestro "Exprimere_te"

I create for those who notice the current climate threat and are aware of the destructive impact of the so-called 'fast fashion'. I design for those for whom clothes do not play a functional role, but are a carrier of value and at the same time a unique and individual work of art. Exprimere__te clothes are distinguished by a hand-painted, artistic motif and a thread finish inspired by the Japanese sashiko and boro embroidery techniques. I care about the environment, ecology and the planet. My guiding light is sustainable development, which is why most of my collections are based on vintage items," reveals the costume designer and founder of the brand, Izabela Wasilewska Handelsman Exprimere_te is a clothing brand created for people who value beauty and style. An individual approach to each product in the collection makes you feel truly special, with a guarantee of the uniqueness of the "thing" you are wearing. We create for those who perceive the current climate threat and are aware of the destructive impact on the environment of the so-called "fast fashion". We design for those for whom clothes do not play a functional role, but are a carrier of value and at the same time a unique and individual work of art. Exprimere__te clothes are distinguished by a hand-painted, artistic motif and a thread finish inspired by the Japanese sashiko and boro embroidery techniques. We care about the environment, ecology and the planet. Our guiding light is sustainable development, which is why most of our collections are based on vintage items. The brand was created by costume designer Izabela Wasilewska - an art lover and esthete, in love with the interwar period, who always remembers the good of our planet, and at the same time changes the apathetic image of the fashion industry into an individual, unique, expressive one that allows us to express ourselves and the hidden in each of us freedom.


In the vibrant tapestry of the fashion world, one artist stands out as a true innovator, weaving narratives of sustainability, creativity, and individuality into every stitch. We sat down with this trailblazing upcycled fashion artist to delve into the inspirations, challenges, and triumphs that shape her artistic journey.


Nature's Palette

Nature serves as the first muse for our artist, who draws inspiration from the colors, textures, and patterns found in the natural world. "Nature has this incredible ability to blend hues and textures in ways that no human could replicate," she shares, her eyes lighting up with passion.


A Time-Traveling Artisan

As our conversation unfolds, we explore the artist's fascination with history and vintage fashion. "There's an undeniable charm in the classics," she muses, describing her love for breathing new life into bygone styles, creating designs that resonate with a sense of nostalgia.


Wanderlust and Wearable Stories

Travel is more than just a leisure activity for this artist; it's a wellspring of creativity. "Every city, every culture – they all have their unique fashion language," she remarks. Immersing herself in different environments fuels her creativity, leading to designs that tell stories of faraway lands.



The Futuristic Visionary

In the realm of technology and futurism, our artist finds inspiration for cutting-edge designs. "The future is an open canvas, and fashion can be a reflection of the limitless possibilities that lie ahead," she declares, hinting at experiments with new materials and wearable tech.


Streetwise and Street Smart

Urban street style and underground subcultures shape our artist's work, injecting an edgy and unconventional vibe into mainstream fashion. "Streetwear is a rebellion, a celebration of individual expression," she notes, emphasizing the influence of subcultures on her evolving aesthetic.


Stitching Emotions

Personal experiences and emotions form the beating heart of our artist's creations. "My designs are an extension of my emotions, my journey," she confesses, revealing that each piece carries a part of her personal narrative.



Embracing Upcycled Alchemy

The transition to upcycled fashion was a natural evolution for our artist. "There's a certain magic in taking discarded materials and turning them into something beautiful," she smiles, describing the alchemy of upcycling that has become a hallmark of her work.


The Sashiko Symphony

Delving into traditional hand stitching, our artist expresses a deep admiration for sashiko. "It's more than stitching; it's a connection to heritage and craftsmanship," she reflects, underscoring the durability and beauty of this ancient Japanese technique.



Stories Woven in Threads

For our artist, storytelling is paramount in her creative process. "Each design tells a story – be it a narrative inspired by nature or a personal journey," she explains. Through her creations, she invites the audience into a world where garments are more than just fabric; they're tales waiting to be unfolded.



Challenges and Triumphs

Working with recyclable materials brings both challenges and opportunities. "Material limitations make you think outside the box, and technical constraints become opportunities for innovation," she reflects. Aesthetic integration, balancing recycled elements with other artistic aspects, remains a delicate yet rewarding challenge.

 



Sustainable Practices

Ensuring the durability and quality of recycled clothing is a conscious effort. "It's about selecting materials wisely, rigorous quality control, and educating consumers on responsible care," she asserts, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices in the fashion industry.


The Artistic Revelation

Amidst the plethora of creations, our artist holds a special place for her first jacket. "It wasn't just a piece; it was a statement. When others started wanting it, I realized the power of upcycled fashion," she shares, reminiscing about the turning point that fueled her commitment to creating more.



Custom Designs and Collaborations

Engaging with clients in the realm of custom designs requires a deep understanding of their stories and tastes. "It's a collaboration, a dance between my vision and their desires," she states, highlighting the importance of effective communication in bespoke creations.


The Creative Odyssey Unveiled

As we wrap up our conversation, our artist takes us through the stages of her creative process. "It begins with inspiration, then material selection, design, and finally, the presentation – a reveal to the world," she concludes, offering a glimpse into the artistic odyssey that defines her work.



In the hands of this visionary upcycled fashion artist, clothing transcends its utilitarian purpose and becomes a canvas for storytelling, sustainability, and artistic expression. The journey continues, and with each stitch, a new chapter unfolds in the captivating narrative of fashion's ever-evolving tapestry.


Comments


DON'T MISS THE FUN.

Thanks for submitting!

FOLLOW US ELSEWHERE

  • Facebook
  • Instagram

READ THE LATEST PUBLICATION

POST ARCHIVE

bottom of page