From workshops to the catwalk - why mended clothes are going mainstream

Mended clothing is moving into mainstream attention, linking practical repair with visible fashion design. One example is Alice Brown, who uses felt animals to cover holes and stains on clothes.

Repair Becomes Part of the Design

Rather than leaving damaged areas concealed or discarded, Brown turns them into prominent decorative features. Felt animals are used to cover imperfections, giving worn garments a distinct visual treatment.

The wider focus on mended clothes connects workshops with the catwalk, suggesting that clothing repair is being presented not only as a practical activity but also as part of fashion’s public expression.

Why the Shift Matters

The example highlights how holes and stains can become the basis for a garment’s design. It also shows the growing visibility of mending as clothing moves from repair-focused settings toward broader fashion attention.

With limited details available on the trend, Brown’s approach provides a clear illustration of how creative patches can reshape the appearance of existing clothes.