Oldschool Guys' Neckties Upcycled Into Sophisticated Hats & Scarves for Ladies

During its evolution in the last couple hundred years, neckties are one of those few male fashion accessories that actually change quite often. But as trends change, where do the old-fashioned, out-of-date neckties go? Straight to the thrift store, where eco-fashion designers and artists like Minnesota-based Lulu Beas find them, and upcycle them into something completely different. Using discarded men's neckties and other repurposed fabrics, Lulu creates quirky and colourful hats, scarves and accessories for women and children.

© Lulu Beas

As Lulu explains on her Etsy store page, where she sells these creations, there's a bit of a Roaring Twenties revival going on:

I find the Cloche and Flapper hat styles of the 1920's to be amongst the most flattering of hat styles for women. I was beyond thrilled when I created an upcycled cloche hat out of men's neckties. The asymmetrical cut and form fitting style of the hat looks flattering on everyone that tries it on.

We love the way the hats skillfully combine colour palettes that range from cheerful to sophisticated.

© Lulu Beas

© Lulu Beas

© Lulu Beas

© Lulu Beas

Lulu's scarves are attractively silky, coming in two styles, the "Necktie Cowl" and the gorgeously ruffled "Elizabethean" (pictured at the very top of this post). Lulu sells patterns for both for the DIYer.

© Lulu Beas

© Lulu Beas

© Lulu Beas

These clever hats and scarves show how imagination and creativity can bring new life to old, tired clothing items that someone else threw away. In addition to her online store, Lulu Beas has a bricks-and-mortar boutique where she sells her creations and gives workshops. To see more, check out Lulu Beas' website, Etsy, and Instagram.