Slow fashion is about only making things that have been ordered, only making what we know you want. We will not make clothes unless you want to buy them. We will never bulk-buy stock and will also not destroy stock. Yes, you will have to wait but it will be worth it, and it will be unique to you.
Circular model Business
Creating new products or services is something all businesses do, but doing it with sustainability in mind and tackling the existing issues in the fashion and clothing industry requires a new approach. The approach is built around the product and its lifecycle, this enables all ‘touch points’ to be considered and either altered, enhanced or avoided.
We are aiming to fulfil three goals.
1. All are garments are made in the USA, in Nevada. We aren’t aiming for this, it is our promise.
2. We make to order, we will never over-buy, or discard unwanted stock. This is a huge commitment, and it slows us down, but it is absolutely the right thing to do.
3. We will, wherever possible, source our materials in the USA, where we cannot, we will check with suppliers to understand the processes and suppliers they use, and how they are using sustainable models.
Design
Designing garments that have straighter lines allows for more efficient use of fabric and creates a more timeless garment designed to be kept for many years. Our designs are versatile, functional, and timeless.
The fabrics and materials we use are considered in terms of their production and manufacturing processes, and the impact they have on the planet and people involved in that production.
The GOTS fabric standard is recognized globally, and records all aspects of fabric creation including the treatment of the people who made it, processes used, use of water, and other important factors. OEKO-TEX is another standard used in the selection of fabric.
Production
The way a garment is cut from the fabric is key to minimizing waste; as already mentioned, boxier, less-fitted, straighter designs allow for more efficient fabric use. Fabric offcuts are used to create packaging, pockets, and buttons.
Garments are made to order, and are customized. The small pieces left are cut and sent with the garment for future repairs, and the tiny stuff left after that is recycled or made into buttons.
We have a limited range of JIT (Just In Time) garments that can be made very quickly if required. The aim is not to hold, or make stock that will not be used. Garments are made to be altered or changed but also made to last with flexible sizing, elasticated elements, spare thread, and replacement buttons included. All fabric can be washed in cold water, and does not need to ever be dry-cleaned.
Use
Increasing empathy for a garment and ensuring it becomes a favourite piece is central to lengthening a garment's life. You are involved in several steps as the product is made, to ensure you have a compelling story to tell, and ensures you will be ready when that question comes ... ‘oh, where did you get that?’ … We keep track of all our garments and encourage the resale and onward journey of a garment. We also supply spare thread, fabric, and replacement buttons making repairs easy.
End of life
We will pay $10 for every garment returned with proof of ownership. All garments returned are repurposed by taking them apart, remaking one garment from elements of others, making packaging for future sales, or by making smaller elements. This, too, becomes part of the garment’s story.