ReMade in Cambodia is a groundbreaking initiative that combines fashion, sustainability, and community engagement. Founded in 2022 by Alyssa Erin Kardos Loera , the organization transforms textile waste collected from Cambodian rivers into unique, eco-friendly clothing. With the support of young Cambodian designers, ReMade strives to build a circular economy, while honoring Khmer cultural richness.
The Positive Impact of ReMade in Cambodia
Since its inception, ReMade in Cambodia has had a significant impact on the Cambodian fashion industry and the environment:
- 456 kg of textile waste recovered and upcycled.
- 74 young designers supported through the sale of upcycled clothing.
- More than 4,500 people attended events to raise awareness about the impacts of fashion.
This unique initiative collects clothing through partners like everwave and River Ocean Cleanup , then cleans and sorts it before transforming it into original clothing thanks to the talent of local designers like Tifanny Bophadavy Doche, the founder of Revivre Studio . Each piece is a symbol of innovation and commitment to the environment.
The Process: From River to Parade
1. Textile Recovery
The first step in ReMade’s process is to collect textiles discarded in Cambodian rivers. Through the efforts of partner organizations, these materials are extracted from the daily waste stream and repurposed for new uses.
2. Cleaning and Sorting
Once collected, the textiles are sorted and carefully cleaned. Each material is classified according to its best upcycling method, ensuring minimal environmental impact while maximizing the quality of the final product.
3. Transformation by Local Designers
Young Cambodian designers are playing a central role in transforming materials into new fashion pieces. Their creativity creates unique garments, reinventing often forgotten fabrics, while redefining sustainable luxury.
Promotion of Cambodian Culture and Youth
ReMade in Cambodia is about more than just reducing waste. The project aims to promote Khmer culture through clothing that tells a story, celebrating Cambodian craft traditions while bringing a modern twist. The initiative also gives a voice to young Cambodian artists, providing them with a platform to express their creativity while actively participating in sustainable change.
Circular and Inclusive Fashion
One of ReMade’s core principles is to build a circular economy by upcycling textile waste. The project also promotes values of inclusivity , working with artists from all backgrounds and championing diversity and equality in the fashion industry. Supporting marginalized communities, including women and LGBTQI+ people, is at the heart of their mission.
Growing Influence in Cambodian Fashion Industry
Cambodia’s fashion industry accounts for 80% of the country’s exports, but it is also one of the most polluting. By transforming waste into clothing, ReMade in Cambodia is actively participating in the fight against this scourge, while offering a sustainable alternative to the industry’s usual practices. Each garment created is a vehicle to raise awareness of the impact of fashion on the environment, both locally and internationally.
The Emergence of Strategic Partnerships
ReMade’s success also relies on its strategic collaborations with key players in the fashion and environmental industries. Partnerships such as the one with everwave for textile waste management allow ReMade to have a tangible impact on Cambodia’s river ecosystems, while supporting biodiversity, particularly around the Tonlé Sap .
Cambodian Designers' Commitment to Responsible Fashion
One of the highlights of ReMade in Cambodia is the participation of renowned local designers, including Tifanny Bophadavy Doche , founder of the Cambodian fashion brand Revivre Studio , which you can find in France and Europe in ourTEVOA Concept Store . Tifanny is also Lead Designer and Global Ambassador for ReMade, reinforcing her role in transforming used materials into haute couture works. Her creations perfectly illustrate the spirit of the initiative: combining modernity, Cambodian culture and sustainable commitment.
Conclusion: A Sustainable Future for Cambodian Fashion
ReMade in Cambodia embodies the future of sustainable fashion, transforming waste into opportunity while empowering the creativity of Cambodian youth. By integrating eco-friendly practices and celebrating local culture, ReMade is paving the way for a greener and more inclusive future.
Discover the unique 100% upcycled creations of Revivre Studio, which is participating in Remade in Cambodia, on our concept store TEVOA , where each garment carries within it a story of transformation, culture and sustainability.