If the current COVID-19 crisis and the climate impact has taught us anything, it’s the need for better, more responsible fashion. Considering it is the second-largest polluting industry in the world after oil, the need of the hour is to opt for ethical and sustainable fashion picks that are not harsh on the environment and give craftsmen their dues.
In line with that thought, we looked for the up and coming brands (read homegrown brands) that are doing their bit to make the industry more ethical and responsible. From championing local artisans and their work to upcycling entire collections, here are seven new labels that you will want to know all about.
The New Sustainable Fashion Brands
Here’s delving into all the fresh sustainable labels on our radar.
Permanent Vacation Clothing
Highlighting an Indie European style, Permanent Vacation Clothing, functioning from Delhi and Paris, brings textiles such as Ikat and Khadi to the forefront, whilst also upcycling to make their collections. Conceptualised in 2017, the sustainable label’s philosophy charts a ‘no gender, no season, no waste philosophy’ across all collections. From awe-striking jackets to block-printed shirts and dresses, there is something for everyone.
We love: The seasonless offerings you can swap with friends and siblings alike.
Morii
Translating to ‘mine’ in English, Morii, an expression one often comes across in Hindi-speaking regions of India, is to claim one’s own. Referring to the ‘woods’ in Japanese, the Ahmedabad-based label aims to capture an organic essence through its work. From narrating stories through their hand-embroidered offerings made by artisans of the Kutch region to presenting naturally dyed apparel and accessories, Morii’s sustainable presence speaks volumes.
We love: The label’s latest initiative of upcycling old sarees and dupattas, along with their hand-embroidered versions that are difficult to look away from.
Ancestry
From the time it came about in 2018, Ancestry has continued giving out some of the best in apparel. Be it their separates that highlight craftsmanship or their use of environment-friendly fabrics, the wearable options by the label are bound to go high up in your sustainable clothing checklist.
We love: Their amalgamation of craft with modern silhouettes that present an array of ensembles suited for all kinds of occasions.
The Pot Plant
Championing slow fashion through its garments, The Pot Plant is where you will want to shop after stumbling upon it. Based out of New Delhi, the sustainable label uses natural fabrics that make for breezy and comfortable outfits. Expect Bandhani prints, several tie-and-dye iterations and classic styles in experimental silhouettes. Not forgoing categories, the brand also has maternity wear options, along with menswear, womenswear and several other ranges.
We love: The numerous options and product range available for shopping.
HOUSE OF SŌHN
A contemporary womenswear label, HOUSE OF SŌHN aims to move away from conforming styles, instead giving women the freedom to make their choices in sustainable fashion options. Started in 2014, the label’s offerings of street style chic and daywear alternatives will make you wonder what the fuss for fast fashion is about.
We love: The brand’s spin on everyday basics while highlighting slow fashion through its workings.
Chamar
“Made from waste. Made from recycled rubber, Made from untouchable—call it by its name, CHAMAR”, reads the header on the brand’s website. Using the same name that has been wrongly used for far too long, Chamar’s brilliant handcrafted offerings are unparalleled. Today, the studio founded by Sudheer Rajbhar provides livelihoods to the Dalit community which works to make these remarkable handbags—a speciality— in Dharavi, Mumbai.
We love: The brand’s genius use of discarded material and the upcycled versions that come out of it.
Chindi
Recycling textile waste is a concept that is, fortunately, catching up and another fresh sustainable label doing their bit is Chindi. Named after the Hindi word, often used by tailors to refer to the waste left behind after stitching, Chindi collaborates with factories to source such material to use in their products. Their zero-waste process gives way to bags in all shapes and sizes, something you might want to get in on.
We love: The label’s ethical approach and responsible steps towards circular fashion.
No better time than now to make space in your wardrobe for sustainable fashion choices.
Featured Image: Instagram
