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The ReVamp

Writer's picture: Carissa WeltonCarissa Welton

Updated: Jan 28

Detroit, affectionately known as The D, has a reputation for a lot of things, and likewise, The D stands for a lot of things... like design.

Eco-chic, Detroit Style
Eco-chic, Detroit Style

The ReVamp, a highly applauded and traveling citywide event returned last Saturday, attracting fashionistas of all shapes and sizes. The aim of the mega clothes swap party was to provide a place for people to give and receive, diverting textile waste from landfills, raising immense vibes and charitable funds, while literally making Detroit a more beautiful city.

Digging for gold at The ReVamp
Digging for gold at The ReVamp

The festivities kicked off at noon at Big Pink, a riverfront re-invented space with a funny, only in The D backstory of its own. When we arrived at 1:45pm there was already nowhere to park, and the warehouse space was bumping, with bodies and bass.


Offering clothes and accessories for women, men, and children, there were two DJ stages with loaded line-ups, as well as non-profit booths like Planned Parenthood and Connect 313, as well as the definitive workshop station hosted by Arts & Scraps, where swappers could re-invent found items right there on the spot. It was a little heavy for the hung-over, but all-around friendly fun and The ReVamp most definitely accomplished their mission:


...to disrupt creative communities by introducing a new culture that pairs sustainability with fashion, art and music.


The ReVamp has already diverted over 18,000 pounds (more than 8,100 kg) of textile waste from landfills, donating clothing to shelters and other non-profit organizations for use. They rely heavily on volunteer and community ambassador efforts for the success of the events. It really took me back to my days of hosting all those eco-fashion events in Beijing, and I am just so grateful for all the green love in my 1st city ever and current homebase, Waawiyatanong. It is no surprise that my earliest impressions in this city throughout my young life have guided me all around the world and back, full circle. And of course, the Pheonix City of Dreams and Innovation would give birth to The ReVamp, but it still just felt magical! Detroit may not have a reputation for being green, but those of us who hold the Emerald City (a much lesser known nickname for The D) in our hearts, have always known what a true gem it is.



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