About

My name is Josephien Elia, and I’m the creator of Old Threads. I love giving existing clothes a second life, with a completely new vibe.

Back in 2023, I made my very first shirt just for myself. I got so many compliments on it that I started thinking: what if I made this available for everyone? Not long after, I created a Dutch national team shirt and posted a video of it online. The response was overwhelming. Within a month, I was sourcing vintage Oranje shirts and making as many pieces as I could for King’s Day. They sold out instantly.

Since then, I’ve kept developing new designs, always using existing garments as the starting point. Of course it’s better for the planet, but for me the real magic is in the creative process.

Turning something old into something new feels like solving a puzzle. It pushes me to think differently and come up with unexpected solutions. That tension also gives each design its own edge.

I’m currently studying Fashion Design at AMFI in Amsterdam, and I’ve also lived in Milan and Barcelona. My designs are streetwise and comfortable. I love combining bold, one-of-a-kind pieces with softer, more feminine touch. 

In the beginning, I made every single shirt myself. Recently, I started working with a small atelier here in the Netherlands. I’m constantly on the hunt for new pieces, both online and offline. I spend a lot of time browsing markets and building relationships with the people there. By now, they recognise me and there’s always time for a little chat. I personally select and source every item, making sure each piece is chosen with care.

Besides designing and producing, I also handle all the photography and social media content. I prefer staying behind the scenes, so you won’t often see me in front of the camera. I work with models to bring the clothes to life.

What started with just one shirt has grown into something really special. We now ship worldwide, and I often receive football shirts from customers who want their favourite club or country transformed into a unique Old Threads piece. Every week, we drop new designs on the website, so there’s always something fresh.

For me, Old Threads is more than just clothing. It’s a way of giving existing stories a whole new chapter.

Love, Josy