In Miami, fashion is not just about style—it’s also a message. In an era where fast fashion continues to generate waste and pollution, some choose a different path, transforming what is considered refuse into beauty.

José Alexzander is one of them. A designer, photographer, and founder of Love For Upcycling, José has, in just a few years, become a key figure on the international creative scene. His vision blends glamour with responsibility, bringing to the runway garments crafted from recycled materials and an approach that inspires new generations.

Today, we talk about him not only because of his work, but also because he has just received the official support of Zero Waste Italy, the Italian organization that promotes the “Zero Waste” strategy and works with communities, businesses, and institutions to reduce environmental impact through sustainable practices. This recognition strengthens the connection between his work and the values of the circular economy.

From his sensational debut at Miami Swim Week® 2023—featuring the now-famous live bikini-making out of denim and rice sacks—to his latest “fun, upcycled” collection showcased at Miami Swim Week 2025, José’s journey has been a crescendo of innovation, collaborations, and powerful statements.

Today, in this exclusive interview, he shares his story, his challenges, and his future projects—proving that fashion can be creative, sustainable, and deeply human at the same time.

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José, how did your passion for upcycling begin?

José: “It all started from frustration with fast fashion and a deep need to give fashion a second life. I’ve always believed that creativity and sustainability can coexist. Upcycling is the perfect medium to express this union.”

What do you remember about your debut at Miami Swim Week 2023?

José: “That first show was a turning point. I opened with a live performance: transforming a dress into a floral bikini in front of everyone. The runway was a patchwork of denim and recycled materials like rice sacks. The energy was electric, and that moment became the symbol of my message.”

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The “Upcycle Worldwide Design Competition” has been a milestone. What inspired you to create it?

José: “I wanted to build a platform where students could showcase their creativity, using recycled materials to design swimwear and resort wear. It was an incredible opportunity to highlight emerging voices and inspire an environmentally conscious mindset.”

What did you present at Miami Swim Week 2025?

José: “This year was all about fun and upcycling. I created a playful, colorful, bold collection—truly fun, upcycled. Presenting it was thrilling, and it’s inspiring to feel that the message of sustainability continues to resonate.”

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How would you describe the mission of Love For Upcycling today?

José: “It’s a collective call: I want to turn waste into beauty, raise awareness, and build community. I’m not thinking only about fashion, but about cultural change—educating, inspiring, and expanding the concept of upcycling into new creative directions.”

What are your future plans?

José: “I’m planning collaborations in fields like home décor and eco-friendly installations. I want to continue exploring and spreading the ethics of upcycling beyond fashion, influencing other sectors and broadening the creative dialogue. But above all, I have a major announcement: we’re organizing a huge event in Panama scheduled for July 2026, and it’s going to be something truly unique!”

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Destination: Panama

We can’t reveal all the details yet, but José has promised to return soon to share, in an exclusive preview, the project he is preparing for 2026 in Panama—an event that, knowing his style and vision, is bound to make a lasting impact.