Honouring Women’s Creativity and Resilience: Yen Wei Goo's Sustainable Fashion Journey

International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the creativity, resilience, and impact of women across the world. Among these inspiring figures is Yen Wei Goo, the visionary behind Paguro Upcycle. Her journey from discovering discarded materials to transforming them into timeless, ethical accessories is a testament to how women are redefining industries and leading sustainable businesses. Fancy showing your support? Spot Paguro's 10 ethical and stylish picks from female artisans and social enterprises that support women in work throughout this blog.

Jelani Recycled Brass Stud Earrings 

From Fast Fashion to Sustainable Innovation: How Yen Found Her Calling

Yen’s passion for sustainability began during her travels, where she witnessed the devastating impact of fast fashion firsthand. Seeing landfills overflowing with discarded accessories and clothing, she realised the urgent need for ethical fashion alternatives. Determined to create change, Yen founded Paguro Upcycle, a brand that turns waste materials into stylish, high-quality fashion accessories. Her mission? To offer consumers an alternative to fast fashion that is both eco-friendly and beautiful.

Eco-Friendly Resistance Band 

Breaking Barriers: Overcoming Challenges to Lead a Sustainable Fashion Brand 

Building a sustainable business as a woman entrepreneur came with its challenges. The fashion industry, often dominated by large corporations and traditional supply chains, left little room for independent, eco-conscious brands. Yen faced scepticism, financial obstacles, and the challenge of educating consumers about upcycled fashion. However, through perseverance and innovation, she carved a niche for Paguro Upcycle, proving that ethical fashion can be both stylish and commercially viable.

“Sustainability in fashion isn’t just a trend - it’s a necessity. Like the hermit crab (Latin: Paguro) repurposing a shell for protection, Paguro embodies nature’s upcycling spirit. I wanted to show that upcycling can drive change while supporting artisans and preserving craftsmanship.” - Yen Wei Goo

Yen’s adaptability was especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she strategically expanded Paguro Upcycle’s online presence to ensure its survival and growth. Her ability to navigate such challenges highlights the resilience and determination required to lead a sustainable fashion business.

Lotus Recycled Rubber Necklace 

Peacock Feather Bracelet 

The Upcycled Fashion Movement: Redefining What’s Beautiful

Upcycled fashion is gaining momentum, with brands like Paguro Upcycle leading the charge. Women entrepreneurs worldwide are challenging the idea of waste, proving that discarded materials can be reimagined into timeless accessories. By giving new life to materials such as tyres, bicycle chains, and electrical wires, Yen and her team are helping reshape the fashion industry into one that values sustainability over disposability.

Celtic Hand-Woven Electrical Wire Earrings 

Reina Black Vegan Handbag 

Paguro Upcycle’s Commitment to Ethical and Eco-Conscious Fashion

Paguro Upcycle is more than just a brand; it’s a movement for ethical and sustainable fashion. Each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans, ensuring fair wages and ethical working conditions. The brand prioritises:

• Sustainability: Using upcycled materials to create durable, stylish accessories.

• Fair Trade Practices: Supporting artisans and ensuring fair wages.

• Plastic-Free Packaging: Sourcing recyclable and locally made packaging to reduce environmental impact.

Ocean Eco-Friendly Recycled Wood Earrings 

Milo 3D Charming Rubber Dog Keyring 

International Women’s Day: Celebrating Women’s Impact in Fashion and Business

Women have long played a crucial role in the fashion industry, from designing revolutionary styles to leading sustainable movements. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate women like Yen Wei Goo, who are transforming the fashion landscape and proving that sustainability and style can coexist.

Shop Paguro Upcycle for Ethical, Upcycled Gifts This International Women’s Day

Celebrate International Women’s Day by supporting women-led businesses and choosing sustainable gifts. Paguro Upcycle offers a range of eco-friendly, upcycled accessories that make perfect gifts. Here is a summary of our 10 ethical and stylish picks from female artisans and social enterprises that support women in work:

1. Rainbow Recycled Wood Gold Necklace
2. Jelani Recycled Brass Stud Earrings 
3. Maggie Inner Tube Vegan Bag 
4. Eco-Friendly Resistance Band 
5. Lotus Recycled Rubber Necklace 
6. Peacock Feather Bracelet 
7. Celtic Hand-Woven Electrical Wire Earrings 
8. Reina Black Vegan Handbag 
9. Ocean Eco-Friendly Recycled Wood Earrings 
10. Milo 3D Charming Rubber Dog Keyring 

By choosing Paguro Upcycle, you’re not just purchasing a gift; you’re supporting a movement towards a more ethical, sustainable future. Explore the collection today and celebrate women’s creativity, resilience, and impact this International Women’s Day.