Making Upcycling Goods Using Waste Uniforms - Season 2
Summary
From Brand Waste to Everyday Use
The upcycling project, which began in Season 1 with HERA as a single-brand initiative, has now expanded in Season 2 to include five brands within
the Amorepacific Group—Sulwhasoo, Laneige, HERA, Amorepacific, and Osulloc. Discontinued uniforms from each brand were carefully deconstructed to
preserve their unique colors and textures, then recombined to create a new lifestyle item: a cushion.
Each cushion carries a dual message on its two sides. The front highlights the authentic textures and signs of use from the original uniforms, emphasizing the essence of upcycling. The back features a patchwork design combining uniforms from different brands, visually expressing the values of connection and circularity across the brands.
Season #1 : design.amorepacific.com/work/2024/amorepacific/making-upcycling-goods-using-waste-uniforms
Each cushion carries a dual message on its two sides. The front highlights the authentic textures and signs of use from the original uniforms, emphasizing the essence of upcycling. The back features a patchwork design combining uniforms from different brands, visually expressing the values of connection and circularity across the brands.
Season #1 : design.amorepacific.com/work/2024/amorepacific/making-upcycling-goods-using-waste-uniforms
Season 1
Season 2
Making Process
The second season of Amorepacific’s discarded uniform upcycling project was carried out in collaboration with OYK Studio, who also partnered on Season 1.
Maintaining the goal of using only discarded uniforms as much as possible, we aimed to create cushions of high design integrity and functional quality.
1. Collection of Discarded Uniforms
Discarded uniforms were collected from five brands — Sulwhasoo, Hera, Amorepacific, O’Sulloc, and Laneige.
These included previous-generation uniforms that were no longer in use, items returned to manufacturers, and sample pieces excluded during the design-development process.
2. Sample Testing
The collected uniforms were thoroughly washed and sorted before experimenting with various design approaches.
We tested designs using individual brand uniforms and mixed combinations, explored both structured and free-form patterns, and applied découpage and unfinished-edge treatments.
Quilting techniques were also introduced to minimize the use of new materials while ensuring durability.
3. Main Production
The final cushion design features a collage-style front, preserving the upcycled character of the uniforms, and a patchwork back that mixes materials from multiple brands.
A total of 30 cushions were produced, each designed for double-sided use. Some were developed into 2-in-1 functional cushions by incorporating accessory components.
Every cushion includes a “Rebirth Day” label, marking its production date and symbolizing its transformation from discarded uniform to renewed product.
The upcycled uniform cushions represent a holistic design outcome — one that integrates function, structure, and message.
Amorepacific
Waste Uniform Upcycling
Waste Uniform Upcycling
This Season 2 project went beyond simple recycling,
it was a process of discovering how materials that have
fulfilled their
purpose for the brand can be
reinterpreted in sustainable ways.
We hope this cushion serves as more than just an
object,
conveying the meaning and value of upcycling.
And that its story and spirit are felt by those who use
it.
May these small yet continuous cycles of renewal
naturally flow into our everyday lives.
it was a process of discovering how materials that have
fulfilled their
purpose for the brand can be
reinterpreted in sustainable ways.
We hope this cushion serves as more than just an
object,
conveying the meaning and value of upcycling.
And that its story and spirit are felt by those who use
it.
May these small yet continuous cycles of renewal
naturally flow into our everyday lives.
- Amorepacific Creatives
- Designer
- 김경진
- Design Studio
- OYK Studio
- Photography
- 이윤진
