Andrew Won is a Toronto-based designer whose work blends the outdoors, upcycling, and technical craft. Best known for his research-driven project thingsbyandrew, he transforms reclaimed materials—often old workwear and outdoor garments—into thoughtful, conversation-starting pieces. After studying fashion at Toronto Metropolitan University and working at brands like Arc’teryx, Won developed a distinct approach rooted in experimentation, community, and circularity. His work continues to explore how discarded materials can be given new life without losing their story.
We sat down with Andrew to explore his creative journey and his forward-thinking vision for the future of upcycling.
HBX: At what age did you first discover your interest in design, and when did you begin creating your own pieces?
Andrew: My interest in design really started in high school via streetwear. I was constantly online researching what my favourite artists were wearing, diving deep into streetwear forums, and visiting local menswear shops to see new collections. I couldn’t afford any of the clothes I actually liked, so I used my mom’s old sewing machine to try and recreate pieces with whatever I had. I’d taper pants, add zippers to shirts, dye old clothes; just experimenting with anything I could get my hands on.
Do you remember your very first design project or piece? What does it mean to you now, looking back?
The first piece I was particularly proud of was a weekender bag I made in 2018 from an old pair of Carhartt overalls. I was always visiting vintage shops and one day thought it would be a cool idea to turn overalls into a bag that could carry all my supplies. I liked the idea of transforming something while still keeping its original character. Looking back, it’s funny because I’m still digging through vintage shops and reworking old pieces today.
What inspired you to launch "thingsbyandrew" in 2020 as a research-based project on circularity and design, and how has it evolved since then?
I started it because finding a job after graduation was tough. I didn’t really have industry connections or experience, so putting my work online felt like the only way to meet people. My final-year thesis focused on sustainable fashion, and part of it was a 15-piece upcycled workwear capsule. I posted it online, and people really connected with it. That gave me the motivation to keep experimenting with reclaimed materials.
How does your academic background in fashion help you in your work today?
To be honest, I wasn’t a great student. I actually failed my first-year sewing class. Pattern drafting didn’t make sense to me, and I struggled to learn by the book. I always ended up finding my own method, and that’s exactly how I work today. The majority of my knowledge comes from the internet and taking apart garments. If anything, school taught me that you don’t always have to follow the norm, especially as a creative. If you make quality work and the process feels right for you, just stick with it.
How has your outdoor experience directly influenced your recent creations?
Working in the outdoor industry showed me how much research and thought actually goes into creating technical pieces. It also made me aware of how harmful these garments are to the environment. These items are used in the harshest conditions, so they’re naturally packed with man-made materials. Somehow, I ended up getting access to a bunch of damaged shells that couldn’t be used anymore. I’d salvage the usable parts and turn them into new creations while still paying homage to the original piece. A lot of the creations I make with these super technical fabrics end up being more of a statement piece, but I also think that’s why people gravitate toward them more.
In exploring circularity through upcycled materials, what's one major challenge you've faced in turning waste into functional gear, and how did you overcome it?
The struggle isn’t making the actual product, it’s the opinions. People online always have thoughts about what’s “more sustainable” or how they’d do it better. For me, upcycling is more about the idea than the final product. I’m not trying to be the poster boy for sustainability or make gear that survives snowstorms. If something I create inspires someone to think differently about waste or circularity, then I’ve done my job. And if I can support a bigger cause in the process, that’s even better.
How does your work experience at Arc'teryx feed into your experiments?
Working at Arc’teryx exposed me to a lot of talented people and technical knowledge. I learned how different demographics react to certain items, what brands actually want to hear when pitching ideas, and how long it actually takes for something to go from concept to launch at a global level. I feel like I joined the brand at such an important time because it was having its resurgence with a new generation. We were still doing big brand collaborations, kids were wearing thousand-dollar jackets in the shower, and it was the birth of their circularity program, ReBIRD. That experience definitely shaped how I roll out my own stuff now.
Living and working in Toronto, how does the city shape your approach to design?
I love Toronto. When someone drops a new collection or launches a project, everyone shows up; online or in person. That energy makes it feel like we’re all rooting for each other. I think it’s because of this mentality that Toronto is always compared to New York or other major cities. I feel confident in the work I do because of the genuine support syste I have here. If I’m ever struggling creatively, I can easily reach out to a friend or mentor for advice.
What's one ambitious project or collaboration for "thingsbyandrew" that you're most excited about pursuing?
I don’t have one specific dream collab, but I’d love to pursue more work in Asia. I feel connected to it culturally, even though I’m so far away living in Toronto. That’s why I’m excited for this capsule with HBX; it’ll be my first time launching products in Hong Kong. It’s a new market for me, and people there seem to really appreciate cool products. I’m looking forward to seeing how everything rolls out
Exclusive collection by Andrew Won is now available at Gallery HBX.
Gallery HBX
Shop B53-54, BELOWGROUND, Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen's Road, Central, Hong Kong