A new collaboration between iRi NYC and the Korea-based social impact brand New Year Market is set to launch handmade upcycled key charms designed by seniors. These unique charms, which can also be used as decorative shoe accessories, will become available on Wednesday and highlight the importance of sustainability and community involvement in product design.
The initiative marks a continuation of iRi NYC’s annual upcycling mission. The brand partners with organizations that share its commitment to social and environmental values, creating small but impactful products from leftover materials. Last year, iRi NYC collaborated with the woman-owned brand Cueclyp to produce cup coasters made from surplus neoprene fabric. This year, the key charms represent an innovative shift, demonstrating how upcycled materials can enhance personal accessories.
Empowering Senior Designers
What makes this project particularly special is the involvement of senior citizens. New Year Market focuses on providing safe and rewarding employment opportunities for older individuals who may live alone or depend on collecting recyclables for their livelihoods. By allowing seniors to take on roles as designers, the brand fosters collaboration between them and younger team members, referred to as “juniors.” Together, they transform creative ideas into products that carry emotional weight and social significance.
The key charms, priced between $20 and $30, are handcrafted using upcycled materials sourced from both iRi NYC and New Year Market. These materials include scraps from sock production, shoelaces, and small leather pieces left over from shoe manufacturing. This project aligns with iRi NYC’s ongoing commitment to environmentally conscious production practices.
Since its inception in 2017, iRi NYC has evolved its approach to sustainability. The brand’s production shift to Korea has allowed it to access affordable sustainable materials, enabling a broader incorporation of eco-friendly practices into its designs. A spokesperson for iRi stated, “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.”
Future Prospects and Community Impact
The partnership not only enhances the product offerings but also enriches the lives of the senior designers involved. By creating a platform where these individuals can express their creativity and contribute to the community, iRi NYC and New Year Market are making strides toward fostering inclusivity and empowerment.
As the launch date approaches, anticipation builds for the debut of these upcycled key charms, which embody both personal expression and sustainable practices. This collaboration serves as a reminder of the potential that lies in combining creativity with social responsibility, ultimately leading to meaningful change within communities.