There’s definitely a lot to learn about sustainability in the fashion industry, as new and different production methods, materials, certifications and terms are being developed all the time. Our Sustainable Fashion Handbook examines what’s behind some of these terms.
Handbook of Sustainable Fashion
If you haven’t yet fully mastered the concepts of minimalism, upcycling, slow fashion and innovativeness, keep reading! And as learning is known to be easier with examples, we are going to have a look at the terms with the help of our amazing and pioneering brands.
Minimalism
Helsinki-based Nomen Nescio is the perfect manifestation of minimalism – it is reflected in the brand's aesthetics and its values. Their black pieces are timeless and gender neutral, riding the wave of the rising unisex trend. Instead of defining elements, the brand focuses on high-quality materials and details, as well as providing an easy and meaningful wardrobe. In addition to timeless and beautifully simple products, minimalism also refers to a carefully curated wardrobe, where each individual product is durable and high-quality favourite. Freedom, joy and peace, Nomen Nescio's way of thinking, illustrate minimalism at its best.
Upcycling
Upcycling is something our grandmas have been doing for decades and recently the concept has been gaining momentum. But still, for many of us, the term remains a bit mysterious. Luckily Fanfare comes to the rescue and introduces us to the term with its upcycled collection, based on recycled finds that have been redesigned and reused into new items. This way each garment is a unique, one of a kind piece. The brand, also seen in British Vogue, aims to bring about strong positive change in the industry and through reuse, decrease the need to produce new clothes. The word upcycling refers to a way of recycling in which the value of the product or material is further enhanced by introducing new features. Upcycling encourages creativity while reduces waste.
Slow fashion
Slow fashion is a counterattack to fast fashion, just as the term suggests. Like minimalism, slow fashion is about replacing quantity with quality. The designer of Berlin-based Shio brand, Kate Pinkstone, repeats her styles from season to season and sews clothes from carefully selected materials, thus promoting the slow fashion ideology. Shio's classic and timeless pieces are the cornerstone of everyday wear. What is essential in slow fashion ideology, is conscious consumer behaviour and consideration of the impacts of fashion production and also, focusing on one's own style rather than following the trends.
Innovativeness
Swedish outerwear brand Houdini relies on novel and recycled materials. By bringing together scientists, artists, designers and adventurers, the brand creates innovative and sustainable products that feel comfortable on the skin. The brand's collection includes outdoor clothing made from recycled materials, which are both waterproof and windproof, breathable, and can be recycled after use. Additionally, they keep their user warm no matter what the weather. By utilizing recycled materials, the brand reduces the environmental impact of its production. Innovativeness in sustainable fashion means creating something new or improving an existing one so that the product's performance is improved.
