If you’ve made a commitment to buy more sustainably this year, the good news is, you have a myriad of options to cherry-pick from.
With more brands than ever jumping on board the eco-friendly band-wagon, fashion is slowing evolving towards a greener future. While there are no strict protocols in place around what constitutes an “ethical” brand, many are consciously making great strides towards reducing their carbon footprint and impact.
Here, we list six fashion-editor approved buys that will make turn your summer wardrobe into a sustainable powerhouse.
Kalaurie Backwards Forwards Dress
Melbourne brand Kalaurie is famed in fashion circles for its classic craftsmanship. In fact, each collection features premium surplus fabrics and trims where possible in order to minimise fashion landfill. The brand also offers an exclusive repair service to ensure your chosen garment can be worn for years to come.
“I love this day-to-night dress that will see you through summer and then some,” says marie claire’s fashion editor, Monica Russell. “The best part is, each piece is handmade to order.”
Kalaurie Backwards Forwards Dress, $499.
Cult Australian brand Outland consistently impresses with its commitment to transparent manufacturing. This year, the brand boasted a 94% direct supply chain traceability, meeting strict social and environmental criteria.
“Considering I’m still not ready to return to the skinny jean fold (read: let people look at my calves), I’m always partial to a straight cut,” says marie claire’s Digital Director, Mahalia Chang. “This pair by Outland are slim fit, and not too baggy. Plus, Outland’s entire brand ethos is based off ethical production and human empowerment. Win win.”
Outland Abigail Highrise Girlfriend Jean, $229.90
ECCO Tannery Series Upcycled Shopper
Having won multiple awards for its responsible production processes, ECCO’s commitment to sustainability is second to none. This is evident in the brand’s latest offering, the ECCO Tannery Series Upcycled Shopper, a chic ulitarian tote crafted from upcycled leather that makes eco-friendly use of leather stock from the tannery’s innovation labs.
The elegant, versatile design, which is available in a range of colours, fits everything from large shopping items to laptops, making it the ultimate carry-all. Pair it with a chic midi dress for work or jeans and a shirt for the ultimate weekend look.
ECCO Tannery Series Upcycled Shopper, $149. Available exclusively at Canberra Centre and Pitt Street stores.
Arnsdorf Pearl Top
Melbourne brand Arnsdorf has a transparent approach to sustainability, with a commitment to ethical manufacturing.
This season Chang can’t go past the brand’s famed puff-sleeve silhouette.
“Anyone who’s spent five minutes with me knows I love a puff-sleeve top (slash feeling like I could stand in for a wealthy noblewoman from the early 1500s),” says Chang. “This option walks the line between casual and formal. It’s capable of being dressed up with a pair of crisp black trousers for work, or dressed down with some shorts for a picnic-in-the-park situation.”
Arnsdorf Pearl Top, $380
Similarly, Fashion Market Editor Ella Blinco Jury also has a soft spot for Arnsdorf, citing its commitment to sustainable practices.
“You can never go wrong with a chic black tank top, a piece you can style with just about everything,” says Blinco Jury. “The Arnsdorf Pia tank is made from organic cotton, so you’ll not only look good but feel good too.”
Arnsdorf Pia Tank, $149
Bassike Stripe Grossgrain Pull on Pant
Sustainability has been at the heart of Bassike since its inception in 2006. The brand’s founders, Deborah Sam and Mary Lou Ryan, are continually striving to improve packaging, material and manufacturing practices in order to offer consumers an environmentally-friendly product.
This season, Russell is loving their Stripe Grossgrain Pull on Pant. “A comfy pant is a non-negotiable in summer, and I’m looking to these ones from Bassike. Buy the matching shirt and the wearing possibilities are endless.”
Bassike Stripe Grossgrain Pull on Pant, $450
Brought to you by ECCO
ECCO is one of the world’s leading shoe brands, combining style and comfort. ECCO’s success is built on products with a great fit and top-quality leathers. ECCO owns and manages every aspect of the value chain from tanneries and shoe manufacturing to wholesale and retail activities.
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