Patchwork garments are, in simple terms, garments that have been created by combining seemingly mismatched scraps of material. This is what makes each piece a unique work of art, and people who decide to wear them certainly belong to those who appreciate original, unique looks and care about ecology. Patchwork garments are favoured by people of all ages, although they tend to be slimmer or of normal body build.
Patchwork is a sewing technique in which a variety of fabric scraps are combined to form a cohesive whole. The Patchwork Association's patchwork garments currently include T-shirts, although other garments are also planned, including dresses, blouses, trousers, skirts, jackets and accessories. The garments are sewn from recycled materials as well as new fabrics.
Patchwork clothing looks good in combination with plain, uniform items of clothing, such as classic jeans or a subdued shirt. Those who like to experiment can combine patchwork clothes (e.g. t-shirts) with striped trousers or a checked jacket. Patchwork fits perfectly into a variety of styles, making it suitable both as casual wear and as clothing for a special occasion.
The patchwork technique dates back as far as 5,000 years. Modern patchwork is a symbol of ecological and sustainable fashion. Many well-known designers create modern, minimalist and often surprising collections using recycled fabrics.