What made you start ReJean? 

 

When I left Uni, I wasn’t confident about my skillset and I did’t see much appeal working with a design studio. 

I moved to London and worked on repairs and alterations at Levi’s and that’s where I first came across “Denim Heads” who would religiously repair, mend and alter jeans. 

I then worked at a Vintage Warehouse and noticed how much denim waste was created when making the cut-off shorts. 

Denim Heads + Denim waste = Business potential

I moved back to Glasgow and was working within costume design but I still had the idea of the brand. With a leap of faith and some inspiration, I started to make samples. 

Skip a few steps, I launched in 2019 with the first drop selling out. 

 

How would you describe ReJean ? 

 

Luxury workwear, circular, long lasting

I wanted to push the boundaries on what you can make with what already exists. 

 

What’s the coolest part of your journey? 

 

Working for myself and having pride that I made this business. 

 

If you could pick only one item from the collection, what would it be? 

 

The Berkley

  

Who/What is your biggest inspiration? 

My friend Rebecca really inspired me when she set up her own business. 

I’m also inspired by brands like Hiut and Paynter for their authentic marketing and sustainable business model. 

 

ReJean is a Community Interest Company, what does that mean and why is it important to you? 

 

Community Interest Companies are the same as limited companies except all profits go back into the company or into the community. It just made sense for me as I am firmly a people and planet over profit person. 

 

I love my Mending Club. It’s part of my extra community impact. These are group sessions held in Glasgow and Edinburgh and it’s just a fun way to get people mending their clothes and provides a dedicated time and space for people to repair, mend and alter already owner garments. Sewing is also a great mindfulness exercise and allows everyone to get together and build community. 

 

I think sewing is a really important skill that needs to be brought back. In the same way a person should be able to cook from themselves, people should be able to sew a button and sort a hem. It saves money but also is so important in reducing fashion waste. 

 

What is your tips to be more sustainable? 

 

1. Consume less and love what you already own. 
2. Buy Less and buy more mindfully, build a capsule individual wardrobe and don’t follow trends.
3. Buy more local and second hand

 

Sometimes Fast Fashion is what is accessible and its okay to shop there as long as you do so mindfully. Look after the product and make it last longer. Don’t beat yourself up, lots of people doing the small things has a big impact.