Wearable Art & Textile Reimagination.
Zoe transforms discarded textiles into expressive, one-of-a-kind wearable artwork.
By reimagining overlooked or damaged garments, she challenges the idea of clothing as disposable and instead celebrates fashion as a creative, personal, and functional art form.
Art Process
Each piece begins as a pre-loved garment. Using reverse dyeing techniques, hand stamping, stenciling, brush painting, fabric layering, as well as other reclaimed materials such as lace and scrap metal, the garments are refurbished into completely unique creations.
Creative Philosophy
Afterlife creates comfortable, expressive fashion that pairs everyday wearability with bold artistic detail. Each piece is designed to be versatile, for daily life or special occasions, encouraging long-term use and deeper personal connection with clothing.
Zoe Markham
Wearable Art
View All PiecesSustainability
Mission.
Afterlife is dedicated to reducing textile waste and reconnecting fashion to natural, organic materials such as cotton and linen while avoiding plastic-based fabrics like polyester. Every garment is refurbished, redesigned, and given new life through upcycling.
~92M
Tonnes Textile Waste Annually
10%
Global Carbon Emissions
<1%
Recycled into New Garments
Fashion Industry Impact
The global fashion industry produces approximately 92 million tonnes of textile waste annually, with a garbage truck of clothing burned or landfilled every second. The industry contributes roughly 10% of global carbon emissions and relies heavily on synthetic, plastic-based fibers.
Zero Waste Philosophy
Afterlife aims to use every material that enters the studio. By transforming pre-loved garments into functional textiles again, each piece helps divert waste from landfills and reduces demand for new resource-intensive production.
Fashion With a Conscience
“Supporting upcycled wearable art encourages individual expression while promoting responsible consumption. Afterlife invites wearers to dress boldly, express themselves freely, and recognize that fashion can be creative, comfortable, and environmentally conscious.”
Rescue Renew Repurpose
Where to find us.
Experience the textures, weight, and craftsmanship of our garments in person at these local spots.
Marea Art Studio
Studio DisplayA beautiful local art studio featuring a curated selection of our unique wearable art pieces on display.
SLO Farmers Market
Sustainable BazaarFind our sustainable bazaar booth every Thursday evening. Come see the newest pieces in person and chat about sustainable fashion.
Bizarre Antiques & Oddities
Retail PartnerAn eclectic shop carrying a rotating selection of Afterlife pieces.
2026 Spring Tour
6 upcomingGet in touch.
Interested in a custom piece, collaboration, or just want to say hello? Reach out through any of these channels.
For custom commissions and inquiries
zoemarkham@theafterlifeshop.comPhone
Call or text anytime
805-458-9927Afterlife Instagram
Follow for the latest drops and bazaar updates
@the.afterlife.shopArtist Instagram
Behind the scenes with Zoe Markham
@zoe.markhamTikTok
Process videos and styling
@the.afterlife.shop