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Tag: sustainable fashion

  • I Tried the Kacey Musgraves x Reformation Bunny Dress Everybody Wants

    I Tried the Kacey Musgraves x Reformation Bunny Dress Everybody Wants

    While each product featured is independently selected by our editors, we may include paid promotion. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission. Read more about our Product Review Guidelines here.

    I won’t lie to you, the Kacey Musgraves x Reformation collection does not align with my typical aesthetic. But the 36-year-old singer, who is currently on tour promoting “Deeper Well” — which was just nominated for CMA’s album of the year — wears it well. The 17-piece capsule collection aims to showcase Musgraves’s personal style and music evolution. It has an English countryside feeling, composed of rich plaids, delicate lace, Victorian bows, equestrian boots, and vintage denim corsets. In a word, it’s romantic — which is not how you’d describe even a small chunk of my wardrobe.

    While I love avant-garde shapes and bold colors, and would even describe my fashion sensibility as ever-changing, I had yet to dabble in pouf sleeves and doily trims until I met the Bunny Dress ($248). Since the collaboration was dropped in stores and online on Sept. 16, this dress has quickly become one of the most popular silhouettes, largely thanks to Musgraves’s appearance on “Late Night with Seth Meyers.” The Bunny was the first item she wore from the line she helped design, teamed with a pair of simple black heeled mules.

    I had yet to dabble in pouf sleeves and doily trims until I met the Bunny Dress.

    “I got to curate every single detail of this whole line,” she told Meyers. “There’s denim, there’s headscarves, there’s boots, dresses — it’s very romantic and I’m really proud of it.” She continued, “It wasn’t something I just slapped my name on. I really wanted to bring the ‘Deeper Well’ aesthetic into a different dimension.” Musgraves went on to reveal that she worked with Reformation for a full year on production, and then shot the campaign in the Cotswolds in England, with her little sister Kelly Christine Sutton behind the camera.

    “I keep saying this is the perfect line for you to just frolic around in,” Musgraves said. And while I’ve never bought a dress that made me think of frolicking in the meadow (what meadow?), Musgraves’s on-screen look was so appealing, I knew I wanted to put my personal touch on it and try to make it my own. What happened when I actually got my hands on the Bunny mini and tried it on surprised me even more. Not only did I feel comfortable enough to embrace my girlier, dare I say demure-leaning, side, I also accessorized with frilly socks and Mary-Janes, a nod to Musgraves’s iconic campaign.

    Scroll to learn a bit more about the Kacey Musgraves x Reformation collaboration ahead, then read my full review of the Bunny Dress.

    What Are the Most Popular Pieces in the Kacey Musgraves x Reformation Collection?

    The Kacey Musgraves x Reformation collection is comprised of 17 pieces that range in price from $28 to $498. The Bunny dress is definitely one of the most popular pieces, likely because it was the first style Musgraves debuted when she paid a visit to Seth Meyers. The exact version she wore is still in stock in every size, except for in petite, where most sizes are currently waitlist only. According to Reformation, the collection sold very quickly, with the Deeper Well Denim Shirt and Dallas Denim Corset being first to sell through — although most sizes are currently restocked at this time. The Silver Lining Cashmere Two Piece also gets plenty of search, and it’s currently available in both gray, and almost every size in camel.

    PS Photography | Sarah Wasilak
    Kelly Christine Sutton For Reformation

    Is the Kacey Musgraves Reformation Collection Sustainable?

    Like all of Reformation‘s clothing, Kacey Musgraves x Ref prioritizes sustainability. You can read about the brand’s commitment to sustainable production methods here, but the 17-piece collection does incorporate deadstock fabrics, regenerative wool, and recycled cashmere, minimizing every shopper’s carbon footprint.

    About the Kacey Musgraves Reformation Bunny Dress

    • It comes in three different shades: Brown Plaid, Black, and Chianti (a wine red).
    • It’s available in sizes 0-12 and is designed to be fitted at the bodice with an A-line skirt that slightly fans out at the hemline.
    • It’s available in petite sizing in all three colorways.
    • You can visit any US Reformation store that offers hemming to have the dress altered for free.
    • The dress material is crafted from deadstock fabric that consists of polyester, rayon, wool, and spandex, and it is dry clean only.
    • Shipping is free, and you can finance your purchase in $62 increments.
    PS Photography | Sarah Wasilak
    Kelly Christine Sutton For Reformation

    What I Like About the Kacey Musgraves Reformation Bunny Dress

    The Kacey Musgraves x Reformation collection comes with a signature tag that suggests exclusivity, which is especially appealing for fans. Like most of Reformation’s clothing, the Bunny Dress feels well-made and isn’t too flimsy or thin. It comes lined and the scoop-neck is comfortable. Neither the elastic at the sleeves or the lace trim felt itchy against my skin during wear. But I think I discovered my favorite element of this dress before I even left the house: It’s actually very versatile.

    We saw Musgraves wear it with mules on the aforementioned talk show; I liked how it looked in the mirror with knee-high boots, my Steve Madden loafers, and the cranberry Mary-Janes and socks combination that Musgraves and I both successfully pulled off; and podcast host and author Tinx even wore it with the Franklin Boots that are part of the collection. Finally, the dress definitely fits true to size. I’m wearing a 0, which is my typical size, and it fit like a glove.

    What to Consider Before Buying the Kacey Musgraves Reformation Bunny Dress

    If you love a dress that’s machine washable, unfortunately, the Bunny is dry clean only to preserve all the delicate details. However, in my opinion, this is a year-round investment piece that works with tights and boots in the winter and bare legs and flats in the summer, so I think it’s worth the trip to the cleaners. Price-wise, this dress does err on the expensive side when it comes to a minidress, but, again, it can be dressed up or down and works for many different occasions. If you’re considered petite like me (I’m 5’1″), I would recommend trying out the shorter iteration, but I actually felt satisfied with the length of the regular size, which suggests a petite cut might have been too short for my liking.

    Where Can You Buy the Kacey Musgraves Bunny Dress From Reformation?

    The Kacey Musgraves x Reformation Bunny Dress is currently only available on the brand’s website.

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    ★★★★

    Sarah Wasilak is the associate director of Shopping at PS. With plenty of experience in the commerce market, a keen interest in SEO, and 10 years as an editor at the brand, she enjoys writing across the lifestyle and health-and-fitness categories. She has bylines at PS, InStyle, Elle, Refinery29, Who What Wear, Elite Daily, Byrdie, and The Quality Edit and aims to amplify minority voices in all her work.

    Sarah Wasilak

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  • Thousands Flock to Alabama for One of the Nation’s Quirkiest Winter and Ski Events — Even Without Snow

    Thousands Flock to Alabama for One of the Nation’s Quirkiest Winter and Ski Events — Even Without Snow

    Unclaimed Baggage’s 43rd Annual Ski Sale Event Draws National Crowds to Northeast Alabama for Unbeatable Winter Gear Shopping

    In a state where snow is a rarity, thousands of winter sports enthusiasts and savvy shoppers will descend to Scottsboro, Alabama, for the 43rd Annual Ski Sale Event at Unclaimed Baggage on Nov. 2. A tradition since 1981, this event, hosted by the iconic retailer known for selling lost luggage and featured last year in the Washington Post, has become one of the most unique winter shopping experiences in the U.S., an experience that’s part treasure hunt, part winter celebration and fully unexpected in northeast Alabama – a place where winter temperatures rarely dip below 50°F. 

    Each year, Unclaimed Baggage attracts visitors from all over the country, a number of whom camp out the night before the event, seeking incredible deals on winter gear and cold-weather essentials. Shoppers can browse top brands like The North Face, Patagonia, Columbia, Arc’teryx and Canada Goose, all at a fraction of the retail price. 

    It’s Quirky, Fun and Eco-Friendly! 

    Not only is this event known for its quirky appeal but also for its sustainability. As the fashion industry leans more into sustainable practices, Unclaimed Baggage is a leader in the secondhand market. All items sold at Unclaimed Baggage and the Ski Sale Event come from unclaimed luggage, meaning shoppers can score amazing deals on gently used and brand-new items while supporting eco-friendly initiatives. 

    Shoppers will find everything from ski jackets, snow pants and snowboards to hiking boots and cold-weather accessories, all at unbeatable prices—perfect for those gearing up for winter trips, updating wardrobes or getting a jump on early holiday shopping. 

    A Unique Southern Winter Tradition 

    Unclaimed Baggage’s Ski Sale Event has grown into one of the South’s largest winter events. Since 1981, this event has evolved into a large-scale shopping experience drawing thousands of visitors from across the U.S. The contrast of shopping for ski gear in a sunny, snow-free state only adds to the charm. 

    Beyond shopping, the Ski Sale Event provides live entertainment and winter-themed activities. Guests can enjoy light refreshments like hot cocoa and pastries while soaking in the festive energy. There will be opportunities to win prizes and experience special in-store surprises, making it a day of fun for all ages. 

    For more information about the 43rd Annual Ski Sale Event hosted by Unclaimed Baggage, visit unclaimedbaggage.com/blogs/events/annual-ski-sale

    About Unclaimed Baggage    

    Located in Scottsboro, Alabama, Unclaimed Baggage is the nation’s only retailer of lost luggage, offering a treasure trove of goods that airlines have been unable to reunite with their former owners. Since opening in 1970, Unclaimed Baggage has repeatedly made national news for its ever-changing array of unique items from around the world, all sold at an incredible value. Learn about Unclaimed Baggage at unclaimedbaggage.com. 

    Source: Unclaimed Baggage

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  • 4 Editors Review Reformation’s Swimwear — Here’s What We Think

    4 Editors Review Reformation’s Swimwear — Here’s What We Think

    Every editorial product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission.

    It may come as no surprise that Reformation’s revamped swimwear comes with new and improved materials. The line, which retails from $68 to $168 in sizes XS-XL, is made from a renewable and bio-based fiber called EVO by Fulgar. And, according to Reformation’s chief innovation officer Alison Melville, the product will only grow more sustainable with each seasonal drop (check out drop three here!). The first range incorporated deadstock fabric from the brand’s debut swimwear collection in 2019, and Reformation promises to “continue innovating and trying out new materials until we create the most sustainable swimwear possible,” according to Melville.

    Instantly attracted to the striking bikinis and one-pieces, PS editors were eager to get our hands on the latest swimwear designs, many of which were influenced by bestselling products across other categories. “We designed Ref Swim to complement and round out our customers’ existing Ref wardrobes,” Melville tells PS. “Throughout the design process, we were inspired by the concept of outfitting and looked to the silhouettes of some of our top performing apparel items to create complementary swim pieces. For example, the Melanie Top was one of our most popular styles in 2023 so we carried the peekaboo design detail through in our Tossa One Piece and Tossa Bikini Top.”

    Melville confirms that the success of drops one and two has exceeded expectations, with solid colors being most popular — a trend that speaks to the Ref shopper’s love for ’90s minimalism. The Tossa Top, Azure Bottom, and Soleil Top are within the top five SKUs, and they just so happen to be three of the pieces we selected to try at PS.

    Ahead, you’ll hear from four different editors about their experiences trying Reformation swimwear with one shared sentiment: the quality is in the fabric and the fit.

    Sarah Wasilak

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  • Megan Fox and Hailey Bieber’s Go-to JW Pei Bags Are $60 on Amazon

    Megan Fox and Hailey Bieber’s Go-to JW Pei Bags Are $60 on Amazon

    Every editorial product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission.

    JW Pei is one of the buzziest accessory brands of the moment. The Los Angeles-based fashion label was founded in 2018 by husband and wife duo Yang Pei and Stephanie Li, and has taken off among celebrities and regular people alike in the years since. The designer brand is known for its trendy handbags at fair price points, one of which is its popular ruched Gabbi bag, worn by the likes of Lupita Nyong’o, Hailey Bieber, Megan Fox, and many more A-listers. But the alternative handbag styles are also worth coveting, several of which are available for super-fast shipping via Amazon Prime.

    It’s no doubt that JW Pei excels at minimalist silhouettes that are consistently eye-catching. But beyond its standout designs, the label strongly emphasizes sustainability. While there’s always room for improvement, the trend-inspired brand openly dedicates itself to avoiding animal byproducts, sticking to a vegan philosophy, and using eco-conscious materials. It crafts its faux leather items from recycled plastic and all faux leather skus originate from recycled post-consumer polyester.

    Ahead, we’ve rounded up 12 of the best and most popular JW Pei bags on Amazon, many of which cost under $100 and are as visually compelling as some of the luxury handbags we’ve seen. Keep scrolling to find out what makes each one unique.

    Marisa Petrarca

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  • The Best Online Stores and Apps to Buy Second Hand Clothes in Australia – POPSUGAR Australia

    The Best Online Stores and Apps to Buy Second Hand Clothes in Australia – POPSUGAR Australia

    Most of us are now well-aware of the fashion industry’s negative social and environmental impact and we’re wanting to do our part to change it.

    One way is to buy second hand. Doing so can prevent old clothing from ending up in landfills or incinerators, as well as help to save water and energy and reduce carbon emissions, all of which are used when new clothes are made. Plus, buying used clothing can more affordable too, as pieces are usually a fraction of their original price.

    While Australia doesn’t have quite the second hand clothing and accessories scene as you’ll find in the US or UK, its offering does continue to grow each year, particularly with the online and app options. Ahead we’re sharing some of the best online stores and apps to buy and sell second hand clothes and accessories in Australia.

    Depop

    Depop is one of the world’s best-known fashion marketplace apps, with headquarters in London, but a presence in the US, Italy and Australia. Once you’ve signed up to it with a phone number and e-mail address and created a profile for yourself, you can use it to buy and sell clothes. It’s free to list your items, but you’ll be charged a 10% Depop fee on the transaction once anything is sold. You’ll also be charged a transaction fee by PayPal.  

    High End

    High End started as an invite-only Facebook Group in Australia in 2014, but in November this year, the brand launched an AI-powered app. The brand sells only designer pieces, with some of the highest performing brands on the site including Chanel, Hermes and Loewe. Once you’ve bought an item, it undergoes an authentication and quality control check.

    The RealReal

    The RealReal is a luxury consignment brand with 19 physical stores in the US, as well as an online store that ships to Australia. It prides itself as having one of the most rigorous authentication processes among online marketplaces and well as having the largest selection. You’ll find on its site everything from men’s and women’s clothing, to watches and homewares. Its best-selling fashion names include Christian Louboutin, Prada and Gucci.

    Facebook Marketplace

    Any round-up of top online second-hand shops wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Facebook Marketplace, which lets you buy and sell new and used clothes, among other items, like electronics and furniture, and is connected to your Facebook profile. In this way, the process of buying and selling is less anonymous than other second-hand online stores and apps – you might even be able to see if you have mutual friends with the buyer or seller. It’s important to note that the platform isn’t heavily moderated, so you won’t be guaranteed designer authenticity and should be careful with your safety when meeting to buy or sell items.

    The Closet

    The Closet is one of Australia’s largest online fashion thrift stores, selling wares for up to 90% off their original price. Brand names include Witchery, French Connection and Country Road. The site offers free shipping for orders over $200. If you’re looking to sell your clothes, create an account, order free thrift bags and send them back filled with the clothes you’re looking to sell, as well as a completed consignment form that you can download online.

    Thriftd

    Online-only Thriftd Australia started in 2015 with an eBay store and a mission to reduce the number of good quality fashion items sent to landfill. Today, the online shop works with local charities and small businesses to resell their excess stock, putting it online so it be bought anywhere in the world. Each item is carefully assessed, cleaned and repaired if needed.

    eBay

    Founded in 1995, eBay has millions of monthly visitors in Australia, with a handbag listed every two minutes in the country. The site reports Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton are the top handbag brands listed. In May 2023, it launched its authenticity guarantee for designer handbags listed over $350. The platform also has Afterpay integration so you can pay off your purchase in instalments.

    Related: 3 Women on the Moment They Decided to Quit Drinking and What Life’s Been Like Since

    Related: I Haven’t Had a Drink in Over 3 Months — This Is How I’m Feeling

    Sangeeta Kocharekar

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  • Hyde and Three Day Rule Matchmaking: A Cuffing Season Collaboration

    Hyde and Three Day Rule Matchmaking: A Cuffing Season Collaboration

    Press Release


    Oct 13, 2023

    Summer is long gone, but cuffing season is just around the corner. Whether one is staying in for a Friday night dinner or making a quick weekend getaway, Hyde and Three Day Rule are here to make sure the process is seamless.

    Meeting someone new can be intimidating; one’s mind easily spirals into endless questions and one of those, more often than not, is “What am I going to wear?” Three Day Rule–a modern matchmaking company–has partnered with Hyde–an upscale menswear styling and rental clothing service–to ensure everyone has all of the tools to enter cuffing season with confidence. Looking for a stylish jacket that doubles for date night and the office in the morning? A sweater that works for lounging and that business luncheon? Hyde has a multitude of easy transitional pieces that can fit any needs this fall.

    This collaboration adds another dimension of benefits to one’s dating experiences by ensuring all of the tough decisions are taken care of. Whether one is new to the dating scene or a seasoned pro looking for deeper or more meaningful connections, presenting oneself in the best possible way is crucial. Hyde makes it seamless to get started, get the right fit, and get two outfits delivered just in time for a date or outing.

    “We couldn’t be more thrilled to partner with Three Day Rule Matchmaking, while launching integrations that Hyde feels should be the industry standard. We’re working to make it easier than ever to take care of your wardrobe needs, through existing websites, matchmaking, or offered services. This is the future of clothing rental services.” – Hyde’s Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer, Aaron Crist. 

    “Dating for the typical busy professional can be both time-consuming and vulnerable. In partnering with Hyde, we know our clients are in good hands when it comes to their date night and everyday wardrobe needs. We’re thrilled to partner with a brand that helps our clients both simplify and enhance their busy lives!” Talia Goldstein, founder of Three Day Rule Matchmaking.

    The Hyde integration is available to the Three Day Rule Matchmaking pool and Premium members. Users can get started today and get back to focusing on their next match, without worrying about their wardrobe. 

    Source: Hyde

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  • Your Halloween Costume Is Probably Bad For the Environment; Here’s How to Dress Up Sustainably

    Your Halloween Costume Is Probably Bad For the Environment; Here’s How to Dress Up Sustainably

    Halloween is easily one of the most clothing-centric holidays of the year, and like anything else fashion-adjacent, it comes with massive problems. Every year, thousands of stores pop up all around the world, filled wall-to-wall with costumes representing everything from classic Frankensteins to modern-day presidents. The majority of these costumes, unfortunately, are made in the same way fast fashion is — overproduced with cheap labor and containing fossil-fuel-based fabrics like polyester.

    In 2019, the UK environmental group Hubbub found that some 83 percent of material in Halloween costumes were plastics. What’s more, that same year, an estimated 2,079 tons of Halloween costume waste was sent to landfills. When these plastic-based garments sit in landfills, they take hundreds of years to biodegrade.

    “Halloween costumes are what I would call ultra-fast fashion.”

    In the time since that study, Halloween has had its ups and downs, with COVID-19 making festivities scarce, but this year, the holiday’s set to be back and bigger than ever. According to the National Retail Federation, US spending on adult costumes will reach $2 billion in 2023, and children’s costumes are anticipated to hit $1.4 billion.

    “These Halloween costumes are what I would call ultra-fast fashion,” journalist and “To Dye For” author Alden Wicker tells POPSUGAR. “They are the cheapest possible rendition of an outfit, made with ultra-cheap materials in opaque conditions. [It’s] when the only consideration is making something as cheap as possible, because it’s inherently a one-time-use, disposable product.”

    Wicker also notes that the chemicals that go into making those quick and cheap costumes are not only bad for the environment once they are disposed of, but they can be harmful to our health. “It takes some care and investment to ensure fashion products aren’t contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides, and hazardous petrochemicals,” she explains.

    What’s more, when costumes, like other fast fashion, are made at a high speed for a low price, it’s often the people who are making them who pay the cost. In some factories where costumes are made, workers are paid as little as two cents for each piece they make. For some fast-fashion brands, costumes are even part of the seasonal offerings, with the production process being no different than that of a skirt.

    Of course, store-bought and ready-to-wear Halloween costumes aren’t the only way to dress up for the holiday. Our advice? You can wear something from your closet. Designer and stylist Kelsey Randall explains that getting creative with what you have — or buying secondhand — makes for the best kinds of costumes.

    “Hit the thrift store and make a decade costume, which is always an easy, fun one to do,” she says. That way, you can get some pieces that scream the decade you wish you lived in, but you can later incorporate them into your everyday wardrobe. “If you wanted to be an ’80s rocker, you could go get a really sick acid-wash denim jacket and just pair it with the right accessories, and all of a sudden, you’re an ’80s rocker, but you can still wear that jacket in your fall wardrobe.”

    If you really want to buy something specific and on-trend, Randall suggests supporting a local maker and getting something that will still work after the holiday. “Halloween is a great time to support other creative makers, whether it’s on Etsy or at local flea markets,” she says. “A lot of those places are going to have costumey stuff. If you’re going to buy something, take the opportunity to spend the $50 on something that someone’s made and support their business. Nobody wants to wear your old Halloween costume next year, and you’re not probably going to want to wear it again either.”

    Not wanting to be a ghost every year or rewear a costume over and over again is certainly understandable. Still, the impact one-time-wear costumes have on the environment can’t be overstated. If you want to do a fun, trendy costume (like thousands of people did in 2021 with “Squid Game”), consider just how quickly that will become outdated, and perhaps go for the pre-loved Adidas tracksuit on ThredUp rather than the itchy, plastic, overproduced one on a seasonal site. For example, if you’re dressing up like Barbie, it might be fun to take inspiration from Margot Robbie’s press tour looks then scour the internet archives for pieces that look similar.

    If not for the environment or your own health, consider that buying a one-night-only costume might not be the best use of your time and money. As Randall puts it, “If you’re going to buy something, you should probably be able to wear it more than once.”

    Alyssa Hardy

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  • I Haven’t Spent More Than $150 on Clothing in Six Months—Here’s How I Did It

    I Haven’t Spent More Than $150 on Clothing in Six Months—Here’s How I Did It

    Let’s play a little numbers game; how much more clothing do you think the average person owns now compared to 15 years ago? Five percent? Twenty-five? Sixty percent? Hate to break it to you, but it’s the latter. We’re not only buying more clothing than previous generations, but we’re wearing it less too. It’s a terrifying thought, especially considering fast fashion’s negative impacts on the world. From contributing the highest carbon emissions globally to causing micro-plastic pollution in the ocean, the effects are endless.

    I think about it often, especially as someone in the industry’s trenches who has to grapple with the knowledge of this impact while also deeply loving fashion. I can’t say I possess some moral high ground, but I will say I’ve made subtle shifts to be more sustainably minded in my own life. Part of that shift has come from prioritizing investing in staples and shopping from eco-friendly brands, but the other half has come from using the designer clothing rental service, Rent The Runway. 

    Since the start of the year, I’ve been using the clothing rental service to curb my spending and lessen my environmental impact. And while it’s not necessarily a solution to the larger issues that plague the industry—I’m one person, after all! Nevertheless, Rent the Runway has changed how we view fashion by destigmatizing second-hand clothing and creating a subculture that rewards re-wearing garments. It’s changing both the industry and individual closets, and to prove that point, I did an in-depth review of the clothing rental service.

    In the first half of this story, you’ll hear from Sarah Tam, Rent the Runway’s chief merchant, about how the service works, her tips for renting clothing, and how the team has expanded its merchandising to include some of the coolest labels. In the latter half of the story, I’ve included a run-down of 10 looks I tried on from the service, the pros and cons of the platform, and my full review of the service overall. Without further ado…

    Jasmine Fox-Suliaman

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  • Slow Fashion Is the Move for 2023—I’m Living in These 16 Dreamy Pieces

    Slow Fashion Is the Move for 2023—I’m Living in These 16 Dreamy Pieces

    I love shopping (unsurprisingly), and I’m excited that I can help the planet at the same time by supporting slow-fashion brands like unsubscribed. The ethereal pieces drew me in, but the brand’s compassionate ethos makes me want to shop there again and again. All of the pieces—effortless bohemian dresses, classy minimalist staples, trendy swimsuits, and more—are produced locally from natural materials and recycled fabrics. The timeless collections not only outlive the traditional fashion seasons—they transcend them. I’m loving the summer capsule, especially the shimmery-gold swimsuit, the enchanting eyelet top, and the airy linen dress. Keep scrolling to see and shop the other pieces I’m eyeing. You’ll love them as much as I do.

    Emma Walsh

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  • Cartier Is Empowering These Fashion Entrepreneurs Who Are Making a Difference

    Cartier Is Empowering These Fashion Entrepreneurs Who Are Making a Difference

    How does Pantys differentiate itself from other leakproof-underwear brands?

    I think we really focus on being best in class both in terms of health and sustainability. On the healthcare side, we are the first and only clinically approved menstrual underwear in the world. Today, menstrual underwear in every country is regulated as a paro-product, which doesn’t have much regulation in terms of production and commercialization in the market. 

    We went through the same processes of clinical studies that any pad or tampon or FDA-approved medical product would have to go through to meet the same level of standards. We did not only safety and functionality tests but also quality-of-life tests. We did those both in vivo and in vitro, so in lab settings but also with human trial participants. For example, 73% of our users say they forget they’re on their period when they use our product, which is a huge quality-of-life impact. We saw a 100% reduction in self-disturbance. We saw reported increases in levels of productivity, comfort, and sense of hygiene. It’s really exciting to see people make that switch and see the impact of that product in numbers.

    I also think that because we have launched in a number of very fashionable retailers in Brazil, we have over 3000 points of sale there. But in Europe, we have a really broad portfolio of products that are really desirable and a brand that is desirable as well. For example, we launched the first leakproof nursing bra in the world. After underwear, we launched a teen line; a pharmacy line that is at a less expensive price point but uses the same technology; a maternity line with our leakproof, absorbent nursing bras; a fitness line; a swimwear line; [and] boxers for trans men who menstruate. 

    We have this philosophy that co-creating with our community helps us to focus so that we’re not innovating just to innovate. … We’re innovating to really help solve a market need, and we’re understanding those unmet needs in the market. As a natively digital brand, even if it’s less than 1% of the market, if we’re solving a real problem for them, we really focus on driving that quality-of-life difference and driving that value even if it’s a niche consumer. So we are really dedicated to innovating with a focus on inclusivity, and that has enabled us to create an interesting and diverse portfolio that has also been a big differentiator for us.

    Kat Collings

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  • 35 Sustainable Fashion Brands to Shop Year-Round

    35 Sustainable Fashion Brands to Shop Year-Round


    Photo:

    Courtesy of Nanushka; Courtesy of Ninety Percent; Courtesy of Filippa K; Courtesy of Themoirè;

    Take a second and think… how do you define what’s sustainable? If we’re being honest, the collective definition has been watered down over the past few decades. What once was a call-to-action to combat the environmental impact of various sectors has been co-opted by corporations hoping to cash in on the “trendiness” of the social movement without making any fundamental changes. Sadly, that’s an even more relevant phenomenon within the fashion industry. Clothing production accounts for 10% of all global carbon emissions, which is more than the sum of maritime shipping and international flights combined.

    Yet, more fashion brands than ever claim to be “vegan” or “eco-conscious” without actually having the receipts to back up their claims. Basically, there’s a whole lot of greenwashing happening right now. And while we can’t discount some of the genuine shifts happening—e.g., more brands than ever are addressing textile waste, and consumers are adopting a more minimalist approach to their wardrobes. Still, though, there’s more confusion than ever on what makes a brand actually sustainable.

    Some of that confusion comes from a lack of transparency around how things are made, but it is also the myth of sustainable fashion itself. As much as we’d all like to believe anything can be defined as “sustainable,” when over 100 billion garments are produced in a single year, being in the business of making anything new is unsustainable. But before you lose all hope, there are some sustainably-minded brands out there aiming to do better, for real.

    By no means is any brand perfect, but with a focus on mitigating impact—albeit through minimizing water waste, opting for biodegradable fabrics, or investing back into the community—they are, in fact, better for the environment. So without further ado, here are 35 fashion brands that have adopted more sustainable production practices.

    Jasmine Fox-Suliaman

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  • Spring But Make It Sustainable: Your Ultimate Earth-Friendly Shopping Guide

    Spring But Make It Sustainable: Your Ultimate Earth-Friendly Shopping Guide

    I know I’m not alone when I say that I’m committed to becoming more thoughtful about what and where I shop, taking into consideration which brands I support and the impact my purchases have on the environment. More than ever, I want to feel good about my shopping choices.

    Although it’s not talked about as much, the reality is that the fashion industry remains one of the world’s top contributors to climate change. The good news? There have never been more brands that are committed to lightening their carbon footprint and creating a circular fashion economy than there are today. Between the number of emerging labels using upcycled materials, larger brands making the switch to deadstock fabrics, and the rise in popularity of the made-to-order model, it seems as though zero-waste fashion is taking over the indsutry. And I’m so here for it.

    So this Earth Day, I’m not only highlighting some of these cool sustainable brands, but I’m also showing you that staying on-trend and being a conscious consumer don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Ahead, you’ll find six overarching spring trends that are happening in fashion right now and plenty of Earth-friendly ways to try them out yourself. Sure, these looks are current now, but I happen to think these silhouettes, colors, and prints should also earn a spot in your forever closet because, at the end of the day, the most sustainable item of clothing is the one you already own.

    Anna LaPlaca

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  • This Under-$100 Denim Brand Is Sustainable and Goes From an XS to a 3X

    This Under-$100 Denim Brand Is Sustainable and Goes From an XS to a 3X

    With spring comes Earth Day—a perfect time to evaluate your environmental impact. It’s no secret that the fashion industry has increasingly negative effects on the Earth. As a fashion editor, I love shopping, putting together an outfit, and expressing myself as much as the next fashion person, but I think it’s important to reconsider some of our purchasing habits in favor of more Earth-friendly choices. I’ve been opting for more sustainable clothing options than I used to, and I found some really cool brands along the way. Enter Warp + Weft—an inclusive (styles are available up to a size 3X) and sustainable denim company. The best part is all its denim is under $100.

    Yes, you heard right! Eco-friendly fashion brands don’t have to be super pricey, and attainable options like Warp + Weft prove just that. With a quick look at the brand’s story, it becomes clear that sustainable practices are top of mind. “A traditional pair of jeans takes 1500 gallons of water to make, but a pair of Warps requires less than 10,” its website states. The brand also recycles 98% of the water used in the production process and implements environmentally friendly bleaching alternatives.

    Keep scrolling to shop my favorite Warp + Weft pairs and many other gorgeous styles today.

    Chichi Offor

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  • A New Type of Online Retailer Turns to Curation to Solve Fashion’s Waste Problem

    A New Type of Online Retailer Turns to Curation to Solve Fashion’s Waste Problem

    Since the start of the pandemic, online shopping has grown at a faster rate than ever before. While this is true across most industries, the impact on fashion is unique: According to Statista, apparel currently makes up 23% of all e-commerce on the internet — and unsurprisingly, that number is expected to grow. (The same report predicts that in 2025, $300 billion in apparel will be sold online.)

    The inherent downside to this type of growth is that it leads to overproduction from brands seeking to capitalize on our increasingly online lives. That means more textile waste in landfills and secondhand markets, greater carbon emissions and continued unfair labor practices against garment workers to get product in stores faster and cheaper. For consumers, the problem is so big and confusing, it’s almost impossible to know how to shop better.

    Alyssa Hardy

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  • 30 Sustainable Gift Ideas You Can Feel Good Giving This Season

    30 Sustainable Gift Ideas You Can Feel Good Giving This Season

    Have you ever walked through a department store and suddenly felt anxious? Many things can cause someone to be stressed at this time of year—packing for a vacation, searching for the perfect gift, or even just dealing with crowds. But for the more sustainably-minded shopper, there may be an even more distressing idea: overconsumption. 

    It’s estimated that over five million tons of returned gifts will end up in the trash this year alone, and that’s before we’ve even addressed all that wrapping paper. If you find that statistic bothersome, you’re not alone. According to Shopify’s recent report, over 40% of people are willing to pay more for climate-conscious gifts this season. And while one can argue that there’s no fully sustainable way to consume, there are more conscious ways to shop for gifts. You can ask your loved ones for wish lists, give gift cards, shop second-hand, or you can buy from sustainable brands. 

    In an effort to help with the latter, I’ve done some digging to identify 30 sustainable gift ideas from ethical fashion brands. While there’s no denying that there’s been a great deal of greenwashing in the industry, these brands offer complete transparency into their production process and the materials they choose, so you don’t have to worry about the long-term impact of your gifts this year.

    Jasmine Fox-Suliaman

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  • Uniformed Is About to Be Your New Everyday Uniform

    Uniformed Is About to Be Your New Everyday Uniform

    Style Points is a weekly column about how fashion intersects with the wider world.

    After producing her beloved, ’90s-inspired namesake line for a decade, Jennifer Chun was getting a little burned out. The process had become “so routine that I wasn’t thinking outside the box anymore,” she recalls. “I would produce two seasons and then ship it. It was almost like I was becoming a little bit of a robot in the process.” Her husband and business partner was the one who suggested she rethink things, take a break, and “not do this until you want to again.”

    She did stints in costume design and worked for a few sustainability-focused brands, something that “opened my eyes to a whole different process and customer.” But it wasn’t until lockdown hit that she started to dream about creating a new line of her own. Chun was watching K-dramas during the pandemic, after having grown up on the genre (she remembers renting them on VHS tapes at Korean grocery stores back in the day.) “I realized that even being Korean American and having grown up in the Midwest most of my life, my cultural roots are pretty deep. It might be because you’re so insulated; in the Midwest, you’re one of the few Asian families,” she says.

    uniformedworld by jennifer chun

    Irises, a symbol of hope, are a recurring motif.

    Peter Ash Lee/Courtesy of the designer.

    After reading an article about a natural dyer in Seoul (South Korea has a longstanding tradition of the craft), Chun and her mother, who was isolated in L.A. due to Covid restrictions, began corresponding with her. When Chun finally made a trip to Seoul, the dyer let her assist and learn about the process. That experience led her to create a line, Uniformed, where she works with Korean artisans and uses repurposed and deadstock materials and natural dyes. While she’d mainly worked in wovens before, Chun liked the idea of incorporating knitwear “because none of the yarns are wasted. You don’t have all this leftover fabric being thrown away. You’re using exactly what you need.”

    uniformedworld by jennifer chun

    The blazer has been a breakout hit for Chun.

    Peter Ash Lee/Courtesy of the designer.

    One standout of her debut collection is a blazer inspired by the school uniforms in K-dramas and developed with a suiting patternmaker in Manhattan’s Garment District. Its sleeves are lined with brightly striped saekdong fabric, woven by artisans in Busan. (It’s the same fabric that lines the sleeves of a hanbok, the traditional Korean garment.) On the left side of the blazer, where a school name tag would normally be pinned, “Uniformed” is embroidered in Korean on a piece of ribbon. The piece has been a sellout item, with DMs about it pouring in before Chun even opened her online shop.

    A matching knit set and clutch with iris patterns were inspired by a vintage shirt of her grandmother’s, which recalls the pattern on plastic gambling cards called hwatu cards. In Korea, irises are a symbol of hope, which was also the theme of this pandemic-born collection. The preppy side of the line comes out in a rugby sweater, modeled after one Chun borrowed from her dad in the ’90s, but unexpectedly made from merino wool, and in box-pleated miniskirts.

    Chun’s heritage is embedded in every piece. Her wrap skirts drew on the custom of pojagi, or patchworking leftover fabric scraps together as a way to wrap gifts or food containers. Dam yo (blanket) scarves, which are stuffed with repurposed and upcycled down fabric, were based on the traditional Korean blankets she grew up using. And she made a point of working with an all-Asian team on the lookbook, which was shot by Peter Ash Lee. When she showed the resulting images to the dyer, she told Chun, “‘You respected Korea and you made it look true to our cultural heritage.’ And that was the biggest compliment, because that’s what I really wanted to do.”

    uniformedworld by jennifer chun

    The Dam Yo scarf.

    Peter Ash Lee/Courtesy of the designer.

    Everything was made in small batches to eliminate waste, something that has become a selling point for the brand. When Chun told a friend that she would only make a limited amount of items based on how much fabric and yarn she had left, she suggested, “‘Why don’t you label that in your clothing?’ So it’s exciting, because people will see, ‘I got the second one made out of 10, because the first one was the sample.’”

    uniformedworld by jennifer chun

    Chun’s take on the rugby sweater.

    Peter Ash Lee/Courtesy of the designer.

    As with many sustainable brands, there isn’t a plan for wild, full-throttle growth. But Chun plans to expand, judiciously, into accessories and homeware, and work with more artisans across Asia. “And if somebody has leftover fabric or yarn,” she says brightly, “then I’ll use it.”

    One of the highlights of the process: Chun finally got to make a trip to Korea with her mother, who gathered a group of childhood friends who’d heard about what they were doing. “It was the most beautiful thing. They all pulled together and brought their used hanboks,” she says. The women shared the memories behind the garments before offering them to Chun to repurpose for her designs. “It was almost to the point where I was like, ‘I don’t want to cut up any of this!’ But they don’t feel that way. They all want to be a part of it.”

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  • Nigerian teens create fashion from trash to fight pollution

    Nigerian teens create fashion from trash to fight pollution

    LAGOS, Nigeria — Teenage climate activists in Nigeria’s largest city are recycling trash into runway outfits for a “Trashion Show.”

    Chinedu Mogbo, founder of Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative, a conservation group working with the activists, said the show was designed to raise awareness about environmental pollution.

    Lagos, one of Africa’s most populous cities with more than 15 million people, generates at least 12,000 metric tons of waste daily, authorities say. And implementation of environmental laws is poor: The World Bank estimates that pollution kills at least 30,000 people in this city every year.

    This year’s show came just as world leaders wrapped up two weeks of U.N. climate talks in Egypt.

    In collaboration with young activists and models, the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative says it’s out to recycle as many plastics as possible, one community at a time.

    It organizes regular trash clean-ups across communities, at drainage ditches and beaches. The plastic litter is then used to create fabrics for the fashion show.

    Draped in red plastic spoons and fabric, 16-year-old Nethaniel Edegwa said she joined this year’s edition as a model “to make a change.”

    “We can see that we are all being affected by the climate change, so I really want to make a difference,” Edegwa said.

    ———

    Asadu contributed from Abuja, Nigeria.

    ———

    Follow all AP stories on climate change issues at https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment.

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  • Nigerian teens create fashion from trash to fight pollution

    Nigerian teens create fashion from trash to fight pollution

    LAGOS, Nigeria — Teenage climate activists in Nigeria’s largest city are recycling trash into runway outfits for a “Trashion Show.”

    Chinedu Mogbo, founder of Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative, a conservation group working with the activists, said the show was designed to raise awareness about environmental pollution.

    Lagos, one of Africa’s most populous cities with more than 15 million people, generates at least 12,000 metric tons of waste daily, authorities say. And implementation of environmental laws is poor: The World Bank estimates that pollution kills at least 30,000 people in this city every year.

    This year’s show came just as world leaders wrapped up two weeks of U.N. climate talks in Egypt.

    In collaboration with young activists and models, the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative says it’s out to recycle as many plastics as possible, one community at a time.

    It organizes regular trash clean-ups across communities, at drainage ditches and beaches. The plastic litter is then used to create fabrics for the fashion show.

    Draped in red plastic spoons and fabric, 16-year-old Nethaniel Edegwa said she joined this year’s edition as a model “to make a change.”

    “We can see that we are all being affected by the climate change, so I really want to make a difference,” Edegwa said.

    ———

    Asadu contributed from Abuja, Nigeria.

    ———

    Follow all AP stories on climate change issues at https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment.

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  • Must Read: Why Fashion Is Embracing Degrowth, The Tom Ford Acquisition Is All About Fragrance

    Must Read: Why Fashion Is Embracing Degrowth, The Tom Ford Acquisition Is All About Fragrance

    These are the stories making headlines in fashion on Friday.

    Why fashion is embracing degrowth
    The term “degrowth,” according to economic anthropologist Jason Hickel, means “a planned reduction of energy and resource use designed to bring the economy back into balance with the living world in a way that reduces inequality and improves human well-being.” Brands such as Ralph Lauren are exploring what embracing degrowth could look like. Halide Alagöz, the chief product and sustainability officer at Ralph Lauren said, “We have seen our financials getting better although we produce less units compared to five years ago.” {The New York Times}

    Brooke Frischer

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  • 5 Ways to Feel Good About Shopping, From an Indigenous Fashion Brand Founder

    5 Ways to Feel Good About Shopping, From an Indigenous Fashion Brand Founder

    Now more than ever, there’s a growing desire among us consumers to be more conscious about what types of businesses we support for clothing and everything else. Sure, the word “sustainability” has been a buzzword for some time now, but we can’t let it lose its impact. A way to do that is to personalize the aspect of sustainability, so we reached out to someone who can speak to it better than almost anyone: Amy Yeung

    Yeung is the Diné (Navajo) founder of 4kinship (formerly Orenda Tribe), which sells pieces made of upcycled textiles, restored and repurposed vintage clothing, and items crafted by her fellow Diné Tribe members and artisans around the world. Sustainability is at the company’s core, and Yeung is constantly coming up with ways to support her community, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic has taken such a toll. With all this in mind, it’s easy to see why Yeung was the perfect person to tell us how to feel good about shopping, and once you see how beautiful 4kinship’s pieces are for yourself, you won’t soon forget them.

    Keep scrolling for Amy Yeung’s best shopping advice and to shop some of 4kinship’s truly stunning pieces.

    Allyson Payer

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