Founded by New Zealand advertising man-turned Japanese resident Carl van Wijk, Tokyo Trash (website still under construction as of this writing) is a unique fashion and accessory label that finds beauty in what those in Japan forget as they toss out the trash.

Originally just a side project, the unique reinterpretations of old wrappers, chopsticks, bottles and more caught the eyes of many, especially those with a green-colored glisten in their eyes, wrapped up in the current sustainability craze. Carl and co. saw a chance to make a positive impact and took it, and Japan’s streets might just be a little bit clearer because of it! More photos and info after the jump.

From the company’s press release:

Tokyo Trash makes a reality of “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” by designing and producing stunning handbags and accessories from discarded candy wrappers, subway tickets, chopsticks, convenience store receipts and even flyers advertising sex clubs.

Carl van Wijk, the mastermind behind the recycle-conscious brand, says that over 60,000 tons of garbage are dumped every year in Tokyo. “Obviously we can’t use all of it but a lot of it captures that zany Japanese pop-culture aesthetic that is so popular about the globe”.

Tokyo Trash adds their design sense and gives the rubbish a new life as a luxury item.

Tokyo Trash states that all trash garments are a one-of-a-kind. No two products are exactly the same. To find out more about Tokyo Trash, send an email to: info (at) tokyo-trash.com

By NYT