Articles
From garbage to handmade beauty
arrow_backTo the overview08 January 2025 | LAYA CPH
Upcycling is the art of transforming discarded materials into something new and valuable. For Laya’s makeup bags, this means repurposing old saris into beautiful, unique accessories. The process begins by collecting pre-loved saris, often sourced from local communities in Nepal, India, and Bangladesh. These saris are carefully cleaned and inspected for damage before being cut and sewn into stunning, one-of-a-kind products by skilled artisans. This process not only breathes new life into materials that would otherwise be wasted but also supports and empowers local communities and artisans. The result is a unique, handmade makeup bag that adds color to your wardrobe while making a positive impact on the world.
Environmental Benefits of Repurposing Saris
The global textile industry generates approximately 92 million tons of waste annually, much of which ends up in landfills. The production and disposal of fast fashion consume vast resources and contribute to pollution and the depletion of natural resources.
By upcycling vintage saris into accessories, textile waste is significantly reduced. Repurposed saris decrease the need for new resources and help prevent materials from becoming waste. This sustainable solution combines environmental benefits with the joy of owning unique, handcrafted accessories.
Supporting Artisans and Local Communities
When you purchase an upcycled sari makeup bag, you’re not just acquiring a beautiful and unique product; you’re also supporting local artisans and communities. Many of these products are created by marginalized women with limited job opportunities. Upcycling provides them with a stable income, strengthening their families and communities.
Additionally, the production of upcycled products helps preserve traditional crafts and cultural values while creating economic opportunities and reducing waste—a win-win for people and the planet.
Discover Laya’s universe as part of the Creators Community in Hall F.
This article is written by:
LAYA CPH
LAYA is a Danish design brand rooted in Nepal with a deep commitment to aesthetics, responsibility, and craft. We create accessories using sustainable materials such as upcycled saris, handwoven dhaka fabrics, and durable, traditionally woven cottons.
All products are handmade in Nepal by women from marginalized communities who gain skills, income, and independence through the work.
Each design has its own name and story – blending Nordic simplicity with cultural reverence.
LAYA means “rhythm” and “dissolution” in Sanskrit – a poetic metaphor for transformation: of fabric, of lives, a
