Saved from landfill, retired DHL Express uniforms have been repurposed into accessories designed by high-profile Hong Kong designer Angus Tsui.
The accessories were auctioned off for charity in a partnership with sustainable fashion NGO Redress.
Tsui, who received the People’s Choice Award in the Redress Design Awards in Hong Kong in 2012, created limited-edition sling bags, shoulder bags, and wallets from retired DHL uniform items, including waterproof combi jackets, raincoats, cargo trousers, and quilted liners. The pieces were durable, functional, and priced at HKD980 (US$125) or $1980 ($254).
The initiative aimed to build awareness of sustainable fashion in Hong Kong and demonstrate how to breathe new life into retired apparel.
“This meaningful and exciting project positively impacts the environment and supports a charitable cause,” said Tsui.
“It’s an honour that this design won the DHL GoGreen Plus Alumni Prize in the Redress Design Award 2024. Now I take pride in seeing the idea come to life through retired DHL courier uniforms, transforming them into stylish, functional fashion pieces inspired by the journey of a DHL shipment while highlighting the brand’s iconic look, logo, and colours.”
Tusi launched his namesake sustainable womenswear and menswear brand in 2014 using zero-waste, upcycling, and reconstruction design techniques.
Profits from the charity sale will be used to support Redress’ work, providing development support to emerging designers in their alumni network via the Redress Design Award program.
Andy Chiang, senior VP and MD at DHL Express Hong Kong and Macau, said the company was proud to work with Redress to further promote a positive change in the fashion industry.
“This initiative contributes to DHL’s mission as a leading logistics partner in the fashion and retail industry, enhancing sustainability awareness.”
