At Rethread, we’ve never believed sustainability is black and white - it’s a constant process of learning, adapting, and making better choices where we can.
When we started, we focused solely on upcycling which is transforming vintage garments into one-of-a-kind pieces. As we’ve grown, we’ve expanded into small-batch production using new fabric, which comes with its own set of challenge, especially in South Africa, where access to natural and recycled fibres is extremely limited, and most fabric is imported with high minimum order quantities.
That said, our commitment remains the same: to create beautiful, long-lasting garments while reducing waste, supporting local production, and being transparent about where we are, and where we’re trying to go.
Here’s how we approach our sustainability efforts today:
1. Upcycled Collection
This is where we began - and it's still a big part of who we are. We rework vintage garments (like blazers) into new, original silhouettes. This falls under the sustainability principle of using waste as a resource, extending the lifecycle of garments that already exist.
2. New Collection
These pieces are made using fabric roll, and we prioritise natural fibre options wherever possible. While we’re limited by what’s locally available, we focus on designing garments that go the distance. Each piece is produced in small batches, made locally, and built with quality, versatility, and timelessness in mind - so you can wear it again and again, in ways that feel new every time.
3. Curated Vintage
While not our main category, we occasionally offer curated vintage pieces - especially in colder seasons, when second-hand outerwear is in high demand.
What We Do Differently
1. Small-Batch Production:
We produce between 20–50 units per style and/or colour (depending on the piece), which allows us to test demand and minimise waste. We restock based on actual performance, not projections. Local production with smaller CMTs gives us the flexibility to restock in smaller runs instead of committing to large bulk orders upfront - helping us avoid overproduction and the risk of deadstock.
2. Local Manufacturing:
All of our garments are made in South Africa. Our largest factory is fully compliant with local labour standards and registered with the relevant authorities. Our other CMTs are small businesses run by independent local artisans. We visit them regularly, know their teams by name, and ensure that working conditions are safe, respectful, and fair.
3. Responsible Waste Management:
- All production offcuts are sent to Clothes the Good, a Johannesburg-based non-profit that downcycles fabric waste into ZeroCrete, a sustainable building material.
- Any unsellable stock or deadstock is either donated to Close the Good for their resale/upcycling initiatives or repurposed through our own sample sales.
4. Thoughtful Design
Our garments are made to last, and most of them are intentionally designed to be styled multiple ways. We believe that sustainability also lies in how many times you can wear something, and how seamlessly it fits into your life.
5. Carbon Neutral Delivery:
Where We’re Still Growing
We’re proud of the steps we’ve taken - but there’s always room to do better. As we grow, we’re committed to evolving our practices in the following ways:
1. Access to Better Fabrics
At the moment, our fabric choices are limited to what’s available locally. As a small brand in South Africa, importing sustainable textiles (like GOTS-certified cotton or recycled fibres) comes with extremely high MOQs - often over 900 meters per colour. Our goal is to eventually scale to the point where we can source more consciously, whether through importing or collaborating with local suppliers to develop better options.
2. Increasing Recycled & Upcycled Content
While we prioritise natural fibres where possible, we also aim to introduce certified recycled materials - especially for structured styles like outerwear and suiting. Additionally, we hope to bring more focus back to upcycling as we grow, ensuring it continues to be a core part of our circularity strategy.
3. Expanding Circular Initiatives
We currently host sample sales and partner with organisations like Clothes to Good to manage waste responsibly. In the future, we’d love to grow this side of the business through in-store take-back schemes, upcycling workshops, or even a dedicated resale platform for pre-loved Rethread pieces.
4. Certifications & Compliance
As we scale, we’re committed to helping all of our CMTs work toward formal compliance and certifications where possible. While we currently work closely with smaller teams and visit them regularly, we understand the importance of third-party verification and are laying the groundwork to build in that direction - responsibly and transparently.
Who Made my Clothes?
Your Upcyled garments are made by a small team of machinists in Knysna. Babes, Lindo, Leyemma & Josephine!
Your new garments are produced by three Cape Town based CMT's.
How to Rethread?
What to do with your Rethread garments, if/when you are ready to part ways?
Resell
If your Rethread pieces are still in wearable condition (clean, with minor/no defects) we suggest you pass them on to somebody else! Why not make a little extra cash & save the planet at the same time?
Here are some of our favourite Resale options available in South Africa
Online Resale Platforms: Upload your second-hand items online & sell directly to buyers.
Consignment Stores: Take your clothing to a consignment store where they price & sell the clothing on your behalf for a commission on the retail price.
Afraid of Mice (CT)
Wizards Vintage (JHB)
Donate
If you are not in the mood to go through the resale process & your items are still in good nick - donate them to a charity store.
Hospice
Any other charity store in your local area
Recycle
Did you know you can take any textile waste to an H&M store and they will ensure your garments are recycled.
In South Africa H&M are partnered up with Clothes to Good, who ensure all textile waste is recycled & downcycled. Watch video on how it works here.
