Origins of the Lotus | Refashioned Denim Jacket

This jacket is inspired by the deep symbolism of the lotus and the sacredness of the mud it grows from. The lotus isn’t beautiful despite its roots in the mud - it’s beautiful because of the rich, life-giving nutrients the mud provides. The mud isn’t something dirty to be overcome; it’s a womb, a source of creation and abundance. For me, this jacket represents that harmony - the idea that purity, beauty, and spirituality are not separate from the messiness of life, but are born from embracing it.

There’s something poetic about creating this piece from recycled scrap fabrics and using a pre-loved denim jacket as the canvas. Just like the mud gives new life to the lotus, these discarded materials are given a second life through art. Every piece of fabric carries its own story, and together they form something whole, something meaningful—a reflection of transformation, renewal, and beauty emerging from unexpected places.

Refashioning with a Purpose

It takes a disturbing 2,000 gallons of water to produce just one pair of jeans - water often drawn from vulnerable, water-scarce communities. Even more troubling, 80% of fast fashion denim eventually ends up in landfills, despite being a highly recyclable material.

My contribution to sustainability may be small, but every garment saved from the landfill makes a difference. Each piece in my collection starts as a thrifted fast fashion item, carefully repaired, reimagined, and sometimes dyed to give it a fresh start. Every creation is one-of-a-kind, thoughtfully handcrafted by me, with the goal of extending its life and reducing its environmental footprint.

SIZE: Medium