Think neckties are just for guys? Think again! Recycled neckties are being re-fashioned to make everything from wallets to jewelry to wedding gowns. And it makes perfect sense to incorporate some of these pieces into your wedding because designers will often be happy to use ties you provide...what a fun way to give new life to your dad's old tie or incorporate meaningful memories into gifts for your bridal party.
Crafty brides may find all kinds of uses for recycled ties...pretty much anything you can make from a small piece of fabric could be made from a recycled necktie. Can you imagine a basket filled with silk tie pouches holding favors? Or how about a ring pillow pieced from vintage ties to match your wedding colors?
Recycled Necktie Ballgown and Wedding Gown (shown above) by Glamarita
I first discovered this trend when I stumbled across some amazing dresses on Etsy that were completely made of recycled ties. Intrigued, I contacted Ronnie, the designer and owner of Glamarita, and learned that each ballgown is made from an average of 36-42 ties per gown and takes 15 hours to create! Wow! Gowns are handmade to order and are custom fitted to your measurements for a perfect fit. Ronnie also told me about a wedding dress she once designed that was made entirely of ties the bride had collected from friends and family members...LOVE that idea!
You can find more of Ronnie's ballgowns, party dresses, skirts and tops - all made with recycled ties - in her Etsy shop, Glamarita.
DETAILS DETAILS
In addition to the gowns, I found lots of amazing accessories for ladies and gents all being made with recycled neckties. The colors and prints are wonderful...these would be fun to incorporate as clever wedding details or would make chic gifts for the bridal party.
For the ladies...
Button Bracelet by AscotHandbags, Coin Purse by CCStar, Wristlet by TearfulTouch, ReTIEd Mum Brooch by klosti, Headband by Carewood, Camisole by ErinsApparel
Wallet by daniellebags, Camera Strap by asimplebag, Bowtie by xoelle, Billfold by prixprix
And...For Fido!
If you're planning to walk your puppy down the aisle, don't miss these eco-chic leashes and collars all made with...yep, you guessed it...recycled neckties. You can also add a fun ring flower to your dog's collar for the ultimate in canine ring-bearer chic!
Eco Necktie Leashes and Collars by Anniessweatshop
For more tie inspiration be sure to check out my recycled necktie gallery on Flickr and the Artful Ties blog featuring the many uses men's neckties in art, design, fashion and home decor.
Will you be recycling neckties for use in your wedding projects? If so, be sure to comment and share links!
XOXO
Cindi
This is a wonderful idea. We featured a lot of these amazing pieces on our blog as well. I love re-using items to make new ones. Very eco-friendly!
http://yesbride.com/blog/2010/05/tie-the-knot/
Posted by: YesBride | June 16, 2010 at 02:25 PM
I love the necktie dress thats wicked
Posted by: gentleman Joe | June 16, 2010 at 06:01 PM
The dresses are stunning! I love seeing all the creative ideas for upcycling neckties.
Posted by: Connie @ www.klosti.etsy.com | June 16, 2010 at 07:03 PM
wow this is amazing..must do it..thank you 4 the idea..
Posted by: Mens Ties | July 29, 2010 at 09:47 PM
OMG That gown! :O
Posted by: Michelle | February 26, 2011 at 07:04 PM
Aren't they amazing? I love the idea of taking something so masculine and turning it into the ultimate gown. :)
Posted by: Cindi Brooks | February 27, 2011 at 05:16 PM