FAQs
Q. What makes the Karen Lukacs label sustainable?
Otherwise destined for the landfill, nearly 100% of the materials transformed in the studio are carefully curated from local sources. and then deep-cleaned and deconstructed.
Pieces are designed and crafted using a zero-waste chain of hierarchy: From lap robes to jackets to WEAR, the larger secondary offcut remnants are collaged into CARRY bags. Then, the smaller remaining scraps and trims are creatively merged to create pillows for the NEST.
Q. Where does the studio source materials?
It's the studio’s central commitment to breathe new life into unsung, castoff materials. Locally sourced from Tucson’s rich trove of thrift stores and estate sales, Karen Lukacs is passionate in the quest for quality materials that have a uniquely expressive spark. The studio is also honored to accept donations of pieces too valuable to thrift or discard.
Q. What is the inspiration behind the Denim Collection?
Reclaimed denim is an abundant resource material, and quality items can still be found amidst the fast fashion din. Within this field of possibilities, Karen Lukacs is inspired by these questions:
What if we could transform some of those many discarded jeans into garments that embraced the grit and the grace of this American Southwest culture?
What if we do so by demonstrating the possibilities of sustainable design, whilst embracing the cultural significance of this iconic fashion item?
And then, what if we could design products with a zero-waste focus, in that next to nothing is left over?
Q. Does the studio produce work using other materials in addition to denim?
Yes.
Neckties become heirloom clutches to CARRY.Cashmere is transformed into comfy WEAR.Men's shirts are deconstructed and reassembled into day dresses.Graphic tees are lovingly crafted into quilts.
Endless possibilities. Restricted only by the growing dearth of a high-quality textile pool—a cumulative result of decades of fast-fashion production and consumption that eschews any notions of responsible stewardship.
What is the Karen Lukacs Studio Sustainability Philosophy?
Circular. Creative. Local. Reduce. Reuse. Thoughtful Design. Upcycle. Zero-Waste.