Special designs for furry friends

Beril Ortaç, a student in Department of Textile and Fashion Design at Izmir University of Economics (IUE), designed collars and scarves for furry friends using denim waste. Inspired by kintsugi and sashiko techniques—traditional Japanese methods of fabric dyeing and pattern creation—Ortaç garnered significant praise for her designs. Collaborating with Turkey's leading denim brand, Lee Wrangler, as part of a special social responsibility project, Ortaç stated that she would continue to create new projects aimed at raising awareness for stray animals.

The denim waste used by senior design student Beril Ortaç was provided by Lee Wrangler. Over the course of a month, Ortaç designed 30 colorful collars and scarves, standing out with her drawing skills and creativity.

“THE DESIGNS WERE HIGHLY APPRECIATED”

Stating that she highlighted the sustainability aspect of using denim waste in her designs, Ortaç said: “Previously, we had worked on a denim project with the same brand as part of a course. My collection was highly appreciated and displayed for a month. This time, they mentioned they wanted designs for cats and dogs, which I gladly accepted. I worked on the project for a month, during which they sent me denim waste. I designed scarves and collars for cats and dogs. The designs were very well-received and shared on social media. Many people contacted me to congratulate me on my work.”

“I AM HAPPY AND PROUD”

Reminding that waste fabrics can be reused for different purposes, Ortaç said: “This was a project aimed at repurposing pieces considered waste, highlighting sustainability, and promoting an environmentally friendly and socially responsible initiative. Through this project, we also supported stray animals. Sashiko is a traditional stitching and embroidery technique used for decorative applications on fabric and clothing. Kintsugi, on the other hand, is a philosophy that aims to make an object even more beautiful and functional than before. I got inspired by these techniques for my designs. I am very happy and proud that my name has been associated with such a project. I am very grateful to Lee Wrangler for including me in this project. This project also marked an important milestone in my career journey. I hope to continue participating in similar projects in the future.”