We are learning more about how our life and style choices can impact the world and ourselves. Fashion is one of the biggest contributors on a global level. We hear words like sustainable fashion, but what does that really mean?
Start by reading Fashionopolis by Dana Thomas. It’s an eye-opening book about the fashion industry from the cotton fields to the manufacturers. It also speaks about the people who are trying to educate and shift consumers’ thinking beyond what they see on the store racks. It takes a look at fast fashion and slow fashion.
You may already be thinking of that. Sure, there is allure to buy the latest looks from a fast fashion retailer, and the prices are affordable. But does that mean we are also less likely to put value into those pieces? When you spend on a better quality piece, you tend to covet and take more care. In turn, you will probably hang onto that garment for a longer time. Therefore, less waste is going into the landfill.
I was first turned to slow fashion by my friend and Canadian designer Diane Kroe. She had always believed in fashion that should withstand the test of time. Diane created pieces in her collection in small batches and more often by order. She would show a new collection, and customers would have a window of opportunity to place orders. From there, she would then have the pieces sewn as fast as humanly possible and get them to the consumers in a timely manner. What is brilliant about her designs is often they can often be worn in different ways. A dress can be worn in several ways and also be transformed into a blouse or a skirt. No, her pieces aren’t cheap, but they are magical.
Here are a few sustainable fashion brands we love:
Rose Boreal: A Canadian brand that has roots in the East is all about movement and sustainability. Pieces are versatile, eco-responsible and sustainable for leisure and active lifestyles. They prioritize eco-conscious materials and ethical practices, with protecting nature as a priority. The company is B Corp certified. That means they are accountable for their promises and practices.
Oraki: is a fabric-focused clothing brand from Cynthia Savard. Her funky and fun leggings are meant to be bold, but also breathable, with eyelets and mesh acting as air conditioning. They’re sexy, the kind of leggings you will wear not just to the gym! Eco-friendly fabrics made of dented corn and recycled nylon make these look future-proof.
At STE.MARG.SCOT each design is free from synthetics, plastics and metals. Each fabric, button and stitch is also a story of passion and craftsmanship. Materials and methods are sustainable using only responsibly sourced fabrics that are recyclable, biodegradable and renewable. 100% heirloom wool that is custom woven in a 200-year-old mill is bold in custom-made colours using low-impact Oeko-Tex certified dyes. The wool is also sub-zero warm, wind and water resistant. Caribbean-born Canadian Sasha Jardine founded SteMargScot with the objective of creating sustainable and long-lasting clothing for Canadians. She is also a published author, an award-winning SickKids researcher, and a science educator with over a decade of experience teaching climate science, biology and chemistry.
encircled is a certified B-Corporation making effortlessly cool and easy-to-wear clothing for women. Bamboo is a key ingredient in many of its wearable and breathable items. You’ll feel good and look good in these gorgeous soft clothes, made in Canada. Women-led and owned, to boot.
Get Preloved: Julie Grieve has saved over 1 million sweaters from hitting the landfill with her luxe line of upcycled sweaters, dresses, hoodies and more.
OKAYOK may focus on feet, with socks made in Canada making a big part of its shop. Located in the Junction, grab cute wearable shirts no one else is wearing, and match with your kiddy crew too. You can also join a workshop to make your own.
While technically not a clothing brand, this iconic shop in Yorkville is celebrating 50 years with a capsule collection meant to be treasured and passed down. The Made in Canada Collection is built to last; this legacy wear supports a sustainable practice from a family-owned boutique. Shop Over the Rainbow 55 Bloor St W Suite 123, or online rainbowjeans.com
