<p>In this episode, we talk to Jessica Zaneis from SoulCare in Surplus about a really unique area of fashion - military uniforms! Inspired by her own family's military history and the retired uniforms hanging in her father's closet, Jes began repurposing military uniforms into messenger bags, shrapnels, and vests. Jes is fiercely protective of the environment and passionate about sustainability. We learn more from Jes about the ins-and-outs of creating an original upcycled design and the trajectory of materials used in military uniforms over the years. We get really deep into some thought-provoking questions about the role of fashion and the sentimental value that a meaningful garment can bring. As we discuss, fashion is so much more than just a product- it's a form of utility, expression, and storytelling.</p> <p>Jes also shares about some cool military initiatives such as <a href="https://www.defense.gov/Experience/Common-Threads/Common-Threads-Army/">Common Threads</a> which tells the history of military uniforms and sustainable innovations that the military has been implementing including <a href="https://www.militaryhousingassociation.org/blog/creating-more-sustainable-military-housing-communities/">sustainable military housing</a>. We're feeling so inspired after this conversation with Jes from SoulCare in Surplus and we hope you will too!</p> <p>If you enjoyed this episode, give Jess a follow on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/soulcareinsurplus/">@soulcareinsurplus</a> to learn more about military life and see her creative upcycled designs! Know anyone who is a veteran? Messenger bags provide a meaningful, sentimental gift so contact Jess on her website at <a href="https://www.soulcareinsurplus.com/">https://www.soulcareinsurplus.com/ </a>to explore creating a custom design.</p>