We talk to recycled denim designer Iva Steffalova about her craft of turning old jeans into new pieces of jewellery which she sells at craft markets and on her blog, Resurrection Denim..
We talk to recycled denim designer Iva Steffalova about her craft of turning old jeans into new pieces of jewellery…
Iva is a self-taught designer originally from the Czech Republic and now based in Devonport, Auckland. Her designs are so cool and also eco-conscious, as they all upcycle old denim jeans into new works of wearable art, which she sells at craft markets and on her blog, Resurrection Denim.
"From an early age I have always loved sewing. It’s in my family. However my career has been in advertising and direct marketing as an Account Manager and since going on maternity leave with my baby girl I have fully embraced my creative side. Being a new Mum can be challenging and tiring but it’s also very inspiring and can lead you down a path you never thought you’d travel.
"My idea to create designs out of recycled denim was a very organic process. Everyone has their favourite pair of jeans they don’t want to part from. They are worn out but have a sentimental value."
"My journey started with my old denim skirt. It just didn’t deserve to be ‘chucked’ yet. It deserved to live a bit longer. And that’s how my first denim fashion accessory was born. Then one night the rest of the skirt was reborn into a denim ring and a cuff. And the denim idea spread its tentacles from jewellery, bags to soft furnishing and even lampshades."
What inspires your designs?
"My designs are mainly inspired by old school tattoos. They’re classic, romantic, and sexy – just what I hope to achieve with my designs. My collection ranges from grungy/punky to elegance so there’s something for every occasion."
What are your favourites?
"My two favourite pieces in my collection are the elaborate ‘Roses’ necklace ($55). It’s a design you wouldn’t necessarily expect to be me made out of denim. It’s prominent yet classy, romantic yet edgy."
"And the G Star cuff for men ($28) because I like the fact it’s using the old jeans to the full potential."
Can people have their old jeans custom-made into new creations?
"Yes. As well as making my own designs I also make to order. You can select the colour of denim and the style and I make it to your requirements. Or if you have an old yet precious pair of jeans you can’t part with, send them to me and I’ll turn them into an item of your choice that you’ll enjoy for many more years to come."
Where can we find your work?
Currently you can see my collection at select Auckland markets like the DNA: Designers and Artist market and the Devonport Craft Market, or on my blog resurrectiondenimreborn.wordpress.com
My contact details can be found on my blog if you want to own one of my designs or with your requests on commissions and prices.
Leave a Reply