SUSTAINABLE FASHION TAKES SHAPE AT INDUSTRY CITY
Vania Santos radiates sunshine. Maybe it’s the light-drenched studio, the color kaleidoscope of upcycled garments, or her cheerful yet authentic disposition. Either way, good vibes emulate from the artist and dressmaker known for sewing handcrafted products for the home and wardrobe.
Before moving to New York City, Santos lived in her hometown of San Paulo, Brazil, where she learned to sew doll clothes at just four years old. Her mother was one of 17 siblings, and sewing was the family business. In 2007, Santos brought her craft to NYC.
“When I moved here, I was in Williamsburg, and I saw all the people wearing vintage clothes. I started to get into it and I wanted to figure out where to buy it,” said Santos. She was skillful but short on cash when she chanced on the excess clothing and fabric inventory brimming in Brooklyn’s thrift stores. She began giving a second life to once-used clothing, selling her creations at local markets like Brooklyn Flea.
Santos now runs her business from her studio space at Industry City. A curated creator’s haven, her workshop is a collection of books, sewing machines, and fabrics, all of which Santos uses to transform thrifted fabrics into one-of-a-kind upcycled pieces.
Santos is just one of 34 sustainability-centered businesses creating at Industry City. From Equinor, an energy company committed to long-term value creation in a low-carbon future to Tailored Industry, an on-demand knitwear manufacturer producing zero-waste garments, Industry City is proud to foster an ever-growing ecosystem focused on sustainability.
Are you a maker, creator, or entrepreneur in the sustainability space? Visit our leasing page to learn more about moving your business to Industry City.
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