Vintage to Vogue: Les Spot's Upcycling Story
Discover how one shop is transforming vintage finds into fashionable pieces, promoting sustainable shopping in Dubai.
Craft work with pearls by Hunoof by HunoofDubai Culture & Arts Authority
Vintage Pieces with Backstories
Unlike fast fashion, vintage pieces can't be replicated. Every item of clothing, jewellery, or even a toy – be it a childhood dress or a vintage Barbie – has a story to tell.
In a city dominated by bustling shopping malls, Les Spot was born out of one woman's love for upcycling her belongings into one-of-a-kind items.
Hunoof portrait by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
Meet the Face Behind Les Spot
Hunoof Hamad, a seasoned fashion expert, founded Les Spot to revive vintage treasures. With 12 years of experience, she infuses her creations with a unique style, turning discarded pieces into must-have fashion items.
One of Hunoof's first creations
Hunoof's journey with Les Spot began by transforming a pair of vintage Levi's into a stylish bag.
Jeans handbag made by Hunoof by HunoofDubai Culture & Arts Authority
The signature back packet of the old pair of jeans was transformed into the front pocket of the upcycled denim bag, turning function into fashion.
Re-purposing a Vintage Watch
A vintage watch with dials that have long stopped ticking can be given a new life with a dash of imagination. Hunoof had an idea for this discarded watch.
A necklace made using the dial of a vintage watch by Hunoof by HunoofDubai Culture & Arts Authority
The face of the vintage watch, once a symbol of time, was turned into the charming pendant of a silver necklace, turning an unused accessory into a focal piece.
Vintage Pearls, Modern Style
Crafted from two separate necklaces that Hunoof had unearthed during a trip to Ireland, this upcycled pearl choker proves that vintage can be both classic and trendy.
Hunoof made this pearl choker necklace by Hunoof by HunoofDubai Culture & Arts Authority
The upcycled pearl necklace is also a reminder that upcycling does not always mean transforming one item into another. Sometimes, it's more about bringing out an item's beauty by upgrading the way it represents its purpose.
Bukhoor created by Hunoof by HunoofDubai Culture & Arts Authority
More Than Just Fashion
Upcycling is not all about clothing and accessories. Beauty products made from organic cooking ingredients and 'Bukhoor', or incense, created from the Hunoof's personal blend of essential oils, fragrances and Garwood also make their way to Les Spot's display.
Hunoof portrait by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
A Greener Future
Hamad envisions a future where local talents thrive and sustainability is a cornerstone of fashion in the UAE. Her aim is to inspire and educate, promoting upcycling and recycling as a means of telling stories.
For a deeper dive into more sustainable fashion practices, find out how one designer turned loofahs into dresses here.
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