7 misconceptions about textile upcycling (and why it's time to overcome them)

Textile upcycling, or overcycling, is still surrounded by many clichés. Too expensive, too traditional, difficult to industrialize? Some companies are still reluctant, despite developments in the sector. Yetindustrial upcycling is emerging as a powerful solution for circular fashion, in line with regulatory requirements, notably the AGEC law.

Here are 7 preconceived ideas to deconstruct in order to better understand what upcycling really allows.

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Myth No. 1: "Upcycling is all about unique, ultra-original pieces".

We often associate upcycling with highly visual artistic creations: colorful patchworks, fabric blends, bold designs... This aesthetic originated with the first brands of committed designers.

Butprofessional textile upcycling goes far beyond this. It also makes it possible to produce sober, elegant and timeless pieces in series. At Losanje, we've designed a number of references using upcycled materials, combining aesthetics and simplicity.

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Myth n°2: "Upcycling is only about fashion".

While fashion accounts for most of the world's textile demand, upcycling is not limited to it. Numerous sectors can add value to their textile waste:

• Public authorities: tarpaulins, uniforms, public equipment
• Industry: workwear, technical textiles, production surplus
• Retail: uniforms, merchandising accessories
• Events: kakemonos, goodies, costumes
• Sports: obsolete jerseys, technical equipment, merchandising

Upcycling is a concrete solution for recycling unsold textiles or dormant stocks, for all types of players.

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Myth no. 3: "Upcycling is all about DIY craftsmanship".

Historically a cottage industry, upcycling has become more professional. Today, industrial upcycling relies on technological tools such as automatic textile cutting machines, enabling mass production.

At Losanje, we have developed a standardized production process capable of handling large volumes, while guaranteeing traceability and industrial quality.

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Myth #4: "Upcycled products are inferior".

False: a recycled textile product can be just as strong, attractive and standardized as a new one. Our workshops ensure strict quality control, meticulous manufacturing and professional finishing.

The brands that place their trust in us have the same requirements as in traditional textile production.

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Myth n°5: "Upcycling costs more than a new product".

Thanks to theindustrialization of upcycling, this model is now competitive:

• The use of secondary raw materials (surpluses, offcuts, unsold items) cuts costs compared with the purchase of new materials.
• Mechanization of key stagesoptimizes textile production and reduces labor costs.

The result: products at controlled prices, while reducing environmental impact.

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Myth no. 6: "Upcycling is a passing trend".

On the contrary, thetextile circular economy is emerging as a structural response to the excesses of the linear model. Textile waste, material shortages and regulatory pressure (environmental labelling, bans on the destruction of unsold goods, compulsory textile labelling) make upcycling essential.

The AGEC law and rising consumer expectations are forcing brands to act now.

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Myth 7: "Upcycling is just about selling clothes".

Upcycling has several strategic uses:

• Sales: upcycled products marketed (e.g. LOSANJE x Paris Basketball)
• Internal use: upgrading uniforms for new professional outfits
• Communication: upcycled textile goodies (e.g. LOSANJE x SNCF)

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Textile upcycling: a strategic lever for sustainable production

At a time when industry is having to reinvent itself, textile upcycling offers a response that is at once ecological, economic and regulatory. Rethinking the end-of-life of textile materials is no longer an option, but an opportunity for responsible innovation.