The What
ndi-go-go Upcycling creates one-of-a-kind denim garments by reworking existing denim through slow stitching, visible mending, patching, bleach, paint, dye, and solar dyeing.
Every piece is made by hand, with room for experimentation, imperfection, and surprise along the way.
The Who
Indi-go-go Upcycling is rooted in a creative life shaped by music, collaboration, and community. Founder Jenny Goings (far left) approaches denim much like music — through play, layering and improvisation. Inspired by the energy of a live set and the slow poetry of sashiko stitch, she reimagines each base garment as a canvas for color, shapes, texture and rhythm, typically while singing along to a Jack White playlist. Rather than forcing materials into a fixed outcome, each garment is allowed to evolve through instinct, handwork, response to the fabric itself, and the music. You might catch some rock and roll rebellion in her work.
Surrounding Jenny is a circle of women she knows from her local music community, (several in the pic above and more!) who bring her denim, model, photograph and cheer her on. One, a fashion industry professional, Eliza Ryan (holding her son on her shoulder), was the first to take notice and quickly became her consultant. Eliza has been instrumental in keying in on how Indi-go-go designs appeal to today’s customers and guiding the development of the Indi-go-go label.
Susie Rafelo, owner of A Step Above, is Indi-go-go's newest super-advocate. She is all about empowering women artisans and because of her, Indi-go-go’s customer base hit the Philadelphia area, where you can shop in-person. A Step Above, on King Street in Malvern, PA carries Indi-go-go jeans, jackets and skirts in their beautiful shop of sustainable, fair trade and handmade items.