Unique, wearable art created from secondhand textiles, vintage materials, and a passion for giving things a second life.
Brklyn Impact began when Carissa Hawkes first learned to sew from her mother at just eight years old and instantly fell in love with the craft. After graduating from the University of Rhode Island with a degree in Fashion Merchandising and Design, Carissa wanted to put her knowledge of textile waste into practice, creating clothing and accessories that could keep unwanted materials in use. Today, Brklyn Impact transforms secondhand finds into one of a kind pieces that are made to be worn, loved, and found nowhere else.
Every piece starts with materials that Carissa carefully hand picks from secondhand stores, donations from friends and family, and her own collection of reclaimed textiles.Tapestry blankets and quilts are particular favorites, often becoming unique sweatshirts filled with unexpected patterns and texture. She also creates denim patchwork tote bags from scrap fabric, ABBA inspired jeans, and other reworked pieces, sewing everything together with the two tools she says she couldn’t live without: her serger and sewing machine.
Brklyn Impact is unmistakable in its unexpected materials, playful designs, and commitment to individuality.Each piece is completely different, pieced together by Carissa with the intention of creating wearable art while reducing textile waste. The work comes together in a tiny sewing room at home, packed with bins of fabric, blankets, and clothing in a kind of organized chaos that keeps the rest of the house clean. It’s a fitting space for a brand built around finding new possibilities in things that might otherwise be overlooked.
What You'll Find at Bloom
One-of-a-kind reworked clothing and accessories made from secondhand textiles, including tapestry sweatshirts, patchwork denim totes, statement jeans, and wearable art created with sustainability in mind.
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With Brklyn Impact
Why Bloom?
”The unique style of bloom is what caught my eye. I feel that your customer base is similar to what I am looking for. And you offer other features, advice to try to help us not only make sales but to grow as a brand.” - Carissa
Fun Fact
Carissa’s friends and sisters use to model her handmade clothes for her during photoshoots at URI.