When we acquire our clothing, shoes and accessories, we have a reason, intent or desire. Some purpose served in the moment or compelled by fashion, culture or personal branding. It may not always seem like love at first sight, though it may be for some, we do care for these items in the moment, for a season or often for what seems like a lifetime. Regardless of the motivation or culture of consumption in which we live, we imbue in these items our memories, thoughts, and emotions. In many instances, these attachments are strong and define our personal fashion choices or style. We sometimes adore, fawn over, and share our items with friends, relatives and roommates. We launder, store and care for these items with particular attention and concern. These actions and intentions are real and pronounced, and they are profoundly human. Over time, these items carry parts of us and often show our feelings of attachment. These are telltale signs of prelove.
Prelove is the predicate and the unique quality that makes recycling of clothing, shoes and accessories different. Prelove is a value that we as humans create. Not only the care and careful wear that shows well, but the content of memories and stories that are carried to the next person. After all, when we have determined that these articles no longer serve our needs or we have outgrown them in some fashion, reuse is by far the highest and best use for both personal and environmental reasons.
By definition, the concept of reuse denotes a personal engagement or investment with a return that is enriching, smart and responsible. Often without conscious regard or intention, when we engage in reuse of clothing, shoes and accessories, we are continuing the lifecycle of an article that we ourselves selected or which was selected for us. These personal memories have an emotional currency that is unique to our belongings and to us and certainly transcend any relationship we could possibly enjoy with other recyclable. The personal connection between and among those engaged in the ReuseMovement is paramount. This is a personal and human event that creates value every time.
Join the #ReuseMovement and make a difference.