iRi NYC has partnered with the Korea-based social impact brand New Year Market to launch a collection of upcycled key charms designed by seniors. This initiative, which also allows the charms to be used as decorative elements for shoes, is part of iRi NYC’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The handmade charms will be available starting on Wednesday and are priced between $20 and $30.
The collaboration is significant not only for its environmental impact but also for the empowerment it offers to the senior designers involved. New Year Market focuses on creating safe employment opportunities for older adults, particularly those who live alone or depend on collecting recyclables for income. The brand encourages seniors to express their creativity, pairing them with younger individuals, referred to as “juniors,” who help bring their design ideas to life.
Crafting with Purpose
The key charms, which can also serve as shoe accessories, are crafted from various upcycled materials. These include leftover knits from sock production, shoelaces, and small leather scraps from the shoe industry. This year’s project follows iRi NYC’s previous collaboration with the woman-owned upcycling brand Cueclyp, where they created cup coasters from surplus materials.
According to iRi NYC, this approach not only reduces waste but also aligns with their mission to promote self-expression across all ages. The collaboration with New Year Market reflects a shared vision of sustainability and community support. The charms have undergone a relaunch since their initial debut in 2017, with a renewed focus on environmentally friendly production and distribution methods.
In a statement regarding the shift towards sustainable practices, the brand noted, “When we first launched, none of our products had anything to do with sustainable materials. But thankfully, once we moved our production to Korea, I was shocked that they have a lot of availability with sustainable footwear materials, finally, and they’re not too expensive.” This strategic move has enabled iRi NYC to incorporate more sustainable materials into their designs without the need for large minimum orders.
A Community-Centric Approach
The collaboration not only highlights the capabilities of seniors as designers but also promotes a sense of community and collaboration. By allowing older adults to participate in the creative process, both iRi NYC and New Year Market aim to challenge stereotypes about aging and creativity.
This initiative is a testament to the power of partnerships that prioritize social impact alongside business goals. The handmade key charms and shoe charms will not only be a unique addition to fashion accessories but also serve as a reminder of the importance of sustainable practices and community involvement in today’s economy.
In a world increasingly focused on environmental sustainability and social equity, projects like this offer a beacon of hope, demonstrating that creativity and purpose can come together to benefit both individuals and the planet.
