INTERVIEW #43 JACKOB BUCZYNSKI

Based in: Warsaw, Poland

Founded in: May, 2017

Founded by: Happy Human Jackob Buczynski

Stores: We ship individual customer orders worldwide. In order to place an order, you need to reach out to us via e-mail or DM on Instagram @jackobuczynski. From time to time, we also sell a very limited number of items through our e-shop jackobbuczynski.com. Feel free to visit the store!

Price range: 100euro-1000euro

Why we love them: Super unique pieces all carrying a story of its own. Jacob Buczynski’s designs are made of upcycled goods which many people would refer to as waste but Jackob and his seamstresses create pure magic in the studio in Warsaw, Poland. FIY, the denim jackets are something we’re dreaming about adding to our sustainable closets. 

What is Jackob Buczynski and why did you start?

First of all, Jackob Buczynski gives clothes its voice. It also brings an important truth: the problem of overproduction of goods, extremely harmful to the environment. The brand brings awareness that these days we are all falling for quick, instant choices, buying our temporary happiness through material goods. Jackob Buczynski brand proves that all clothes deserve a second chance, a second life. The way we treat our clothes also determines how we act in different aspects of our life. The brand manifests against one-time choices, we want to change people's mindset. 

What is your sustainability profile?

All of our materials are sterling, artistic, second-hand products. I process the items that someone else found useless - this is called "upcycling". It is an amazing experience: to see the art and magic shining through, coming from the things that were thrown away. By this, I believe that I make my Clients happy and educate them as well. 

 How and where are the products produced?

All of the items are made in my workshop in Warsaw, Poland by my seamstresses, who are being paid fair rates. 

Where do you source the material from?

I have recently started a cooperation with one of Europe's biggest textile sorting hubs. All materials and denim jackets are provided by a Polish company, who sorts second-hand clothes. From time to time I receive some materials from my followers or Clients - they want to give their clothes away, so I can bring them back to life. 

Where do you find your inspiration?

I draw inspiration from everyday life, social activities, from humans, and from all emotions and things that happen to me. I love looking at clothes from a spiritual perspective: I want them to have some sort of energy, story, to have soul and this touch of magic. 

 What have been and are the major challenges?

 These days I am keeping my cool when it comes to challenges. I want to limit them as much as I can: I want to go with the flow, with whatever comes my way and enjoy each moment of my work. My daily life is a big challenge itself, I cherish and appreciate it. 

What has been and are the largest gain?

Besides making a living out of being an artist and doing quite nicely... ;) My biggest gain would be that these seemingly useless things have changed my mindset a lot! I've started psychotherapy, I've started paying attention to little things, living the moment and simply living my life. It's like, by looking at the clothes on a deeper level, I've started noticing other aspects of my life, human relations for instance. I believe that quality, stability and longevity are priceless these days!

 What is “greenwashing” according to you and what can producers and consumers do to avoid it?

I always say that everyone is at a different stage of their life and people might not be ready or willing to learn the truth. I believe that marketing campaigns of biggest brands are the worst thing that happens to us, customers. As long as these companies keep the mass production going and won't care about the truth, we will be living in this vicious circle. 

What would you advise fashion lovers who seek to create a sustainable closet and lifestyle?

 First of all, look around, see how much you have, how much is there to appreciate and re-use! I would start creating a sustainable closet from ourselves, from our heart and soul, by asking the question: what do I really need and if these material goods aren't just an awful trap?

Who else do you think I should interview?

I think Tomasz Armada is a very interesting and conscious Polish designer. I appreciate his take on fashion!