In the summer season, fashion is often synonymous with vibrant colors, eye-catching patterns, and lightweight garments. However, this year, we can take our style a step further by choosing sustainable clothing with an ethical focus. In this article, we will explore how we can stay fashionable during the summer without compromising our values, through the selection of organic garments with ethical style.
During the summer months, we seek garments that keep us cool and comfortable. Sustainable clothing offers a wide variety of eco-friendly fabrics, such as organic linen, recycled cotton, and sustainable bamboo. These fabrics are not only soft and breathable, but they are also produced in an environmentally friendly manner, minimizing the impact on the environment. By choosing garments made with eco-friendly fabrics, we can enjoy the summer with style and environmental consciousness.
Instead of following fleeting trends, let's opt for garments with timeless designs that can be worn again and again. Sustainable fashion is characterized by durable and versatile pieces that withstand the test of time. By investing in classic-style garments, we can build a versatile summer wardrobe, reducing the need to constantly purchase new clothing. This not only contributes to sustainability but also gives us the opportunity to express our personal style in a unique way.
When it comes to sustainable fashion, it is important to research and choose brands that are committed to ethical and transparent practices. Let's look for brands that are transparent about their production processes, from sourcing materials to labor conditions. Many sustainable brands are dedicated to ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for textile industry workers. By supporting these brands, we are contributing to positive change in the fashion industry and promoting ethical style during the summer.
Look Let's not forget about accessories when creating our sustainable summer look with ethical style. Opt for accessories made from sustainable materials, such as bamboo bags, hand-woven straw hats, or fair trade jewelry. These accessories not only add a stylish touch to our outfit but also contribute to the promotion of sustainable practices in the fashion industry.
This summer, we can stay fashionable while acting consciously and responsibly by choosing sustainable clothing with ethical style. From selecting eco-friendly fabrics to seeking timeless designs and supporting brands committed to ethics, every decision we make contributes to building a sustainable summer wardrobe. Through our choices, we can demonstrate that fashion and sustainability can go hand in hand, creating a positive impact in the world of fashion and the environment.
]]>In an increasingly environmentally-conscious world, sustainable fashion has become a burgeoning trend. Thankfully, this concern for the planet has extended to the realm of children's fashion, where sustainable kids clothing has gained popularity in recent years.
In this article, we will explore the key advantages of sustainable kids clothing and its impact in the fight against climate change.
Ethical kids clothing is produced using organic and recycled materials instead of conventional ones. By opting for organic cotton, for instance, the use of pesticides is avoided, promoting biodiversity. Furthermore, many manufacturers use recycled materials such as polyester made from recycled plastic bottles, thereby reducing reliance on natural resources and decreasing textile waste.
Fast fashion has fostered a culture of "use and discard," but sustainable kids clothing stands out for its durability and quality. These garments are designed to withstand the test of time and the active play of children, meaning they can be passed down or donated, thus extending their lifespan. By reducing the need for frequent clothing purchases, the environmental impact associated with production and transportation is diminished.
One of the fundamental advantages of eco kids clothing is that it promotes fair and ethical working conditions throughout the supply chain. Brands committed to sustainability prioritize transparency and traceability, ensuring that workers involved in the manufacturing of these garments receive fair wages and enjoy safe working conditions. By choosing sustainable clothing for our children, we are supporting an industry that values and respects the people who make it possible.
Conventional clothing production generates a significant carbon footprint due to intensive energy use and chemical processes involved. In contrast, sustainable kids clothing is manufactured using more environmentally-friendly methods, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing sustainable garments, we are actively contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions and the fight against climate change.
Sustainable kids clothing is a smart and responsible choice that allows us to dress our children stylishly while also protecting the planet. By opting for clothing made from organic and recycled materials, we promote conscious consumption and reduce our environmental footprint. Additionally, by choosing brands committed to fair and ethical working conditions, we are endorsing an industry that values both people and the planet. Together, we can make a difference and combat climate change through our choices of sustainable kids clothing.
Discover our collection of organic kids clothes and to spread DEDAIS' passion for slow fashion.
]]>Well, it is a day where people buy because everything is so cheap 💲. I get it, all those attractive deals and offers are hard to ignore and they are so tempting. But do you stop and think: do I really need this 🤷♀️?
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Why don't we support Black Friday?
Well, it is a day where people buy because everything is so cheap 💲. I get it, all those attractive deals and offers are hard to ignore and they are so tempting. But do you stop and think: do I really need this 🤷♀️?
I used to buy like crazy years ago on Black Friday, but now I am completely against it. It is a day of unnecessary consumption and overspend. As designer Vivienne Westwood (click to see bio) always says: BUY LESS, CHOOSE WELL
🌿 As an independent sustainable brand, we value our products and you, our costumers.
Do you really want to make a difference this Black Friday and help the environment 🌿 ? PLANT 2 TREES with Dedais. We will double the number of trees planted per purchase.
I know this can have a huge impact on Dedais sales, but we won't have Black Friday DEALS OR OFFERS. You can access our NEW COLLECTIONS (click to view) and our SALE (click to access) section
.
Let's be conscious this Black Friday.
Cotton is one of the most used fabrics in the manufacturing of textiles, from tea towels in our kitchen, to the T-shirts we wear daily. Due to the huge production of cotton in the world, it is not surprising that traditional methods of growing this fibre entail risks for the environment. These techniques involve the use of hazardous pesticides and fertilisers, over consumption of water and carbon emissions.
These are some of the reasons why we choose organic cotton as our main fibre at Dedais. Here is a more detailed list with its benefits:
In organic cotton farms, only natural techniques, such as crop rotation, are used. This way, no chemicals end up damaging the water or ecosystems, and the health of workers remains safe.
By using natural methods, carbon emissions are lower than traditional techniques (up to 46% less). Growing organic cotton also means less energy consumption, which contributes to prevent climate change.
The use of natural resources means no extra cost is added to the bill of the farmers. No added cost for pesticides or fertilisers, and zero cost for genetically modified seeds.
The fact that no harmful substances are used in the production of organic cotton means that farmers' health is not exposed to dangerous risks.
Last but not least, organic cotton prevents allergies and it is gentle on sensitive skin. Not to mention the benefits this type of cotton has on babies and kids.
If you ever thought or are thinking about swapping to organic cotton, now is the moment! Not only is your skin benefiting from its properties, but you are also contributing to make a positive impact in the environment.
Wear organic cotton!
Need some inspiration? You can see some of Dedais organic T-shirts here
Also available for kids here
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Valentine’s Day is a especial date where we show some extra love to our partner, but for the environment, Valentine’s Day is not such a jolly day. As you might be aware, most people use cards as a gift, which end up as landfill waste and contribute to deforestation.
Here is a guide with some sustainable gift ideas for this especial day.
Valentine's cards are one of the most popular gifts. They are a great way to show how you feel to your partner or friend.
But what about choosing a more eco-friendly alternative to the usual paper cards? This year, use technology and get an e-card instead. Quick and easy. Best of all, zero footprint left behind. Your loved one will be delighted.
Have you seen our range of Valentine's Day cards? Personalise it with your partner's details. Take a look.
https://dedais.com/collections/valentines-day-ecards
Last year has taught us the importance of making more sustainable choices in our lives. We are more conscious about the environment than we were before. We learnt about how fast fashion (amongst others) is destroying our planet. That is why more people are buying sustainable fashion, either from conscious brands or vintage.
When you buy from a small, sustainable brand, you are not only helping the environment, but you are also helping the people behind the brand, sometimes run by just one person or two, with a family, who needs that income to survive.
If you buy from an independent brand, you can choose an original present for your partner. What about matching hoodies or t-shirts? Isn't it the cutest gift ever? At Dedais, you can find organic tops to match with your partner, and even your children, if you are parents. Just the perfect Valentine's Day present. Check the styles here.
https://dedais.com/collections/valentines-gift-ideas
What is more romantic than preparing a Valentine's Day meal together?
Head to your local or farmer's market and see what seasonal fruits and vegetables are available. Buy organic food, whenever possible, so you know you are eating food with no pesticides or toxic components.
Make the room cosy and enjoy!
Most people love a box of chocolates. Go for fair trade and organic options from small businesses (if possible). You will be buying the best chocolate and helping those families. Choose dark chocolate, as it is beneficial for your health. It lowers your blood pressure and cholesterol.
A couple of brands you might like:
https://www.traidcraftshop.co.uk/
https://www.thechickenshed.uk/
https://chocolateandlove.com/
https://pana-organic.co.uk/
https://doisyanddam.com/
As you can see, there no need for a flamboyant celebration. You just need the right gift and the right company. Sometimes the simplest things are the best.
I hope you find this guide useful.
To a more sustainable lifestyle!
]]>It's that time of the year again, when mass consumerism is expected to happen in the biggest shopping holiday. IN JUST ONE WEEKEND!!!
1) Write a list
We know all those eye-catching adverts with amazing discounts are very tempting, but before heading online, make a list of what you really need. Do you actually need it or do you just want it? We know it is hard sometimes, but think about if you are going to make use of that product and if it necessary for you.
2) Think Twice before Purchasing
Before buying something, ask yourself a few questions.
- Who made the product you are buying?
- What are their working conditions and wage?
- What material is the product made of? Is it eco-friendly?
- Where is it made?
3) Buy less, choose well
As designer Vivienne Westwood always says: 'Buy less, choose well'. Investing in good quality products actually saves you money on the long run. These products will be in your wardrobe a lifetime. Avoid trends that only last for several months, as those products will probably end in landfill. Instead, buy timeless items that you can wear any season. Only buy items that you truly love, so you will never get bored of them.
4) Look in your wardrobe first
Before buying, check what you have in your wardrobe. Think about how that product would fit. Can you wear it with different clothes? Can you style it in many different ways? If you don't, there is a good chance you won't wear it.
5) Shop local and small
It is a fact that buying from a small business is a completely different experience than buying from a big company. The passion and love can be seen in each product. You get a unique item every time you buy from independent brands. They might take a different approach to Black Friday, like Dedais, that are donating 30% of profits made during the Black Friday weekend to plant trees. Show your support, you are investing in something really worthwhile and beneficial for the environment.
What do you think about Black Friday? We love to hear your sustainable initiatives to help our planet. Leave a comment with your alternatives to Black Friday.
Let's make this Friday Green again 💚
Circular Fashion is born as an alternative to mass consumption of clothes. It is based on what is called 'circular economy', focused on keeping materials and products in use, regenerating natural systems, with a zero-waste and no-pollution mentality, as seen in the Ellen Mac Arthur Foundation (www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org)
In the last 15 years the production of clothes has increased considerably due to the fast fashion industry pace, launching a new collection every two weeks and creating garments at very low prices. The big problem here is that this methodology leads to a mass consumption, where people buy for the sake of keeping up with the trends or just because of the appealing prices offered by this industry. Most of these pieces of clothing are worn an average of seven to ten times before they get discarded. Many of them never get worn and they directly go into waste. All these clothes end up in landfill and, unfortunately, the majority are made with synthetic or blended fibres, which makes it impossible to recycle or biodegrade, becoming a massive threat to the environment, with a catastrophic end in a few years.
What can be done to avoid this disaster? A new approach to fashion economy. An alternative to the current linear fashion system. A cycle where restoration and regeneration coexist, where garments can re-enter the economy process, avoiding going to waste. To achieve this, the clothes must be of high quality, durable and timeless. Natural fibres should be used so, once the garment is not of use any more, it can be recycled to create something new. These fibres are also biodegradable, they are environmentally friendly.
Renewable energy should be used in every step of the production line and a real cost of the garment should be provided, from paying a fair wage to the farmer who grows the cotton to the seamstress or tailor who sews it.
But circular fashion is not just a matter of businesses, it is also a matter that individuals should take into account. What can I do to improve this circularity process? It is very simple. When I look after my clothes and treat them with care, they are likely to last for a long period of time. This, and the quality of the garment can make it last a lifetime.
There are other actions I can take to contribute to circular economy, such as rent some of the trendy garments that come out every season, swap clothes I am not using any more or resell them. This way, clothing is maintained in this continuous cycle.
Circular Fashion is about changing my mindset. Swapping from 'buy - use - discard' to 'reduce - reuse -recycle'.
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How are our natural Reed Bags made? Learn all about the eco-friendly process of our sustainable baskets
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Our bags are completely handcrafted. The entire process is sustainable and eco-friendly. The raw material used is reed, harvested once a year during summer and dried naturally through the traditional method of sun drying for about two or three weeks.
The reeds are organised in bunches, some of which are treated to get a lighter colour, and some others are dyed using a natural colouring process. The bunches are cut with axes to get the desired size and then taken to the loom, where they are woven manually, with no pedal.
It takes between 8 to 16 hours to make each bag, which is 100% handmade. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted in a small scale production, thus allowing us to give you a premium quality product and a sense of individuality and personality.
Let's have a look at the process in more detail.
Reed harvesting in North Portugal and natural sun drying
Large bunches are separated into smaller ones to get ready to create the different panels of the bag
The reed is washed to remove impurities
Reed and jute are dyed
Natural jute is used to weave the reeds and create the panels the traditional and sustainable way
The bag pieces are woven in different patterns and colours
Hand sewing the panels together
Cutting excess reed from the panels
An eco-friendly protective finish is applied to protect from water and preserve color
Eco-friendly leather is used for closures and, in some designs, for laterals, handles and straps
Manual placement of hardware
The wicker for the handles must be immersed in water for a few hours so it can be twisted to create the handles
Then, the fastening is placed
Final color retouch
Final result: durable premium quality, timeless matching mum and mini-me bags, ethically made with natural materials by artisans
What do you think of this traditional process?
Home-made cloth masks have become an interesting and sustainable alternative to surgical face masks.
They are the most eco-friendly option for the environment. They are washable, reusable and recyclable. They are the best choice for conscious consumers that care about sustainability and environmentalism.
]]>How can we, as consumers, choose an eco-friendly alternative for the environment whilst being protected from COVID-19? When it comes to masks, a good and sustainable approach could be choosing reusable masks rather than buying disposable ones.
Many disposable face masks are made of petroleum-derived plastic and with the inappropriate disposal that is happening with the current situation they end up in the oceans, contributing to plastic pollution.
Besides being necessary for medical use, surgical face masks are not a sustainable option, as they need to be discarded responsibly and it is also important to avoid creating large amounts of unnecessary rubbish that come with the use of these type of masks.
Surgical masks should be used by those in high risk, such as hospital staff members, who are advised to use this kind of masks, due to the fact that they have the highest level of protection.
These face masks are disposable and they should be discarded after one use. They are petrol-based and non-recyclable, making them harmful for the ecosystem, becoming a non-eco-friendly option.
Home-made cloth masks have become an interesting and sustainable alternative to surgical face masks.
Although they are not certified, they are the most eco-friendly option for the environment. They are washable, reusable and recyclable. They are the best choice for conscious consumers that care about sustainability and environmentalism.
Cloth face masks should have multiple layers of fabric that allow breathing easily. They should also be durable and strong enough to fit the face appropriately after washing. Cloth masks that meet these criteria can be considered safe.
If you, as a conscious consumer, want to make a greater postive impact on the environment, think about buying organic, as organically grown fabrics do not use any pesticides, chemicals or harmful substances and the amount of water used during the cultivation of the plant is drastically reduced.
Also consider buying locally, from independent responsible businesses, which will incur in a lower carbon footprint and you will be helping a small business owner in these unprecedented times.
Check our range of organic and eco-friendly face masks on our website:
https://dedais.com/collections/all/facemasks
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates:
https://www.instagram.com/dedais_ltd/
https://www.facebook.com/dedaisltd
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Dedais is an independent, ethically and sustainably made brand. We are on a journey towards sustainability and are aware of the positive environmental and social impact we can have. Our matching family garments are made of organic and recycled fabrics and are produced by Barbara, Founder and Director, at her home studio in West London, so you know that your clothes are made responsibly under fair working conditions. All postage material and stationary are 100% recycled and biodegradable.
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GOTS is the gold standard for sustainable processing of textiles made from organically grown fibres.
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is recognised as the world's leading processing standard for textiles made from organic fibres. It defines high-level environmental criteria along the entire organic textiles supply chain and requires compliance with social criteria as well.
Key facts about GOTS
GOTS Certification is carried out by independent experts who physically inspect companies and facilities to verify standards are met.
Key facts about OCS
By buying from Dedais you know that you are buying ethically and responsibly, not only for the people involved in the whole garment process (from the farmer to you and your kids), but also for the environment.
Check our range of matching sets for the family and get a free facemask with your order.
]]>Today we celebrate World Ocean Day, and what a perfect day to introduce you to Anna, multitalented artist and designer, very conscious about ocean and environment pollution.
Anna is an incredible artist and designer whose work is mainly focused on recycling and upcycling, being conscious about the environment and about how she can create eco-friendly, wearable art.
Her work is intricately detailed and beautiful. Everything Anna makes, she does it by hand, giving her work that extra luxurious touch. The mixture of fashion and comtemporary art can be appreciated in her master pieces, which become fantastical stories to be experienced.
Let's talk about you and your work.
There is a global problem with plastic bags. They end up in oceans and soil, becoming a massive danger to our species, which die as a consequence of eating this plastic or get seriously injured, not to mention the environmental pollution of tons of plastic bags piled in beaches or landfill. I think what you do with plastic bags is absolutely amazing and inspiring. You recycle them and create masterpieces. Tell us more about what you do with them and why you decided to create wearable art out of plastic bags.
I started working with plastic bags a very long time ago, when I was young. I was already working with tights from maybe the age of 6 or 8, making rugs out of them, turning them into yarn. Just seeing people at the supermarkets grabbing all these free plastic bags, I know they are not free now but they used to be. It goes beyond that, all the plastic packaging even before a product reaches the shelf, it's been in so many plastic bags. It is quite shocking.
I quickly realised I could turn plastic bags into yarn as well. I am wearing a plastic bag as a necklace right now, one Sainsbury's bag. I am very lucky to have been able to do many projects because plastic bags are still such a threat to nature, to our world. The current plastic bags projects are mainly in collaboration with the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich.
I hope you also feel inspired to do something with them.
You hosted an event at the National Maritime Museum where you created and showed people how to make head pieces out of the plastic bags polluting our oceans. How did attendants find the experience? Do you think people are aware of the dangers of the excessive use of plastic or do you think society still needs more information on this matter?
I've worked with the National Maritime Museum on several projects about plastic bags now and other institutions including Kingston University's Stanley Picker Gallery, so I hope I've done my bit to educate people. It is interesting because working with children is totally different when you are working with adults. I think adults are aware of the environmental impact of plastic bags but they forget about all those unseen plastic bags, the plastic bags being used in packaging packages, packaging of foods. Children are easier to influence and I often feel that I create a longer lasting influence which, in turn, influences their parents.
So far the response has been amazing and most people don’t even realise that things like my necklace are made from plastic bags and all these amazing ways you can use them in your everyday arts and crafts.
You teamed up with Lenka Horakova on your project The Tights Ball. I find it very interesting as I am a big fan of upcycling tights to give them a new life. Can you tell us why tights are harmful for the environment and what this project is about?
It is a project I am really passionate about. It is a project that started when I was 6 or 8 years old making rugs with my grandma out of tights and when I met Lenka in Goldsmiths (University) we teamed up with John, just after we graduated, and this project we had Arts Council funding for. We’ve worked with lots of amazing places and charities, the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and lots of councils in London. It’s gained a lot of momentum. We had a little pause and now we are restarting it, which is very exciting. As my motto for this project is: ‘Tights are basically plastic bags for your legs’. They are made out of nylon, so they are non-recyclable. They are small, flimsy and have a stigma of being thought of as underwear around them, that people really don’t think about the impact that they have but you wear a pair of tights most days. I do, for sure.
The future for the Tights Ball Project is looking very exciting. In the past we did workshops, educating people on how to crochet out of tights, teaching people why tights are bad, what other things they can make out of tights. We are doing blogs about all the many uses of tights that you could have: in your garden, in your crafts, making dog toys, anything you can think of. It is about trying to get people to repurpose tights, rather than just put them in the bin. That is the key, so even if you don't feel crafty, you can cut tights into yarn and give it to someone who is feeling crafty. We are now hoping to partner with some more councils to collect tights to help people think about this, and all the other plastic materials that we wear, so it is a lot more than just tights.
In 2018, you participated on Andrew Logan’s renowned show Alternative Miss World. One of the dresses you designed was completely made out of tights! Wow. That is astounding. What other materials and techniques did you use to create your outfits?
Alternative Miss World was a huge undertaking. I absolutely love making my costumes.It took me a very, very long time. I think the dress made out of tights took me the longest, probably. It was over 600 pairs of tights all crocheted and it was so ridiculously heavy. The eveningwear costume I made it out of lots of things: tights, bottle tops, plastic bags, anything you can think of plastic rubbish related. Then the swimwear I made out of seashells, which I collected, tights as well, pebbles and marbles. It was lots of fun to make. These costumes you should really have to see them up close. I think being on the stage of the Globe didn’t do as much justice as I hoped but there are lots of photos, so have a look.
The techniques for my wearable art, both small and big, I do not use sewing machines at all, so everything is created by hand. I have a sewing machine, but I literally take it out once a year for something. Even seams, I love to do them by hand. It is quite magical when something is created by hand, it sort of goes back to before people had sewing machines and everything became so industrialised and so mass produced. Even if it is a simple object like these earrings I have on (Anna´s own design), they are similar but they are not exactly the same, the makeup on my face, it is not going to be identical because it is done by hand and I think wearing something like that you really respect the maker a lot more than if something that is produced by machine. I don’t really think about time when it comes to making wearable art.
You design impressive bespoke jewellery using recycled materials with your signature touch of sparkling details. Which are your favourite materials when it comes to jewellery?
For the smaller pieces of wearable art I have my own vocabulary of favourite materials. It usually starts with a recycled material that is like the hero. It could be anything from old, unwanted clothes, which can be cut into yarn or strips or used as fabric, or buttons or zips, bottle tops, tights, plastic bags, ring pulls, wine corks. I get lots of unwanted flowers from all sorts of displays and florists. With beads, I try to get as many reclaimed beads as I can. It could be anything that came off a handbag and lots of Swaroski, which I also try to get reclaimed rather than new.
Tell us about your journey into sustainable fashion. How and when it began and how it developed over time.
I always created things out of recycled materials when I was little. I loved making things and my mum obviously didn’t give me that much money for materials. It was the norm to create things out of materials that you have, so at first I didn’t really think about it, but later on I realised the impact that plastics and rubbish have on the world and what I am actually doing is really good for the world, so that kind of was a natural thing for me. It still shocks me now that people try to buy new materials than use what they have. It seems so natural to me. As I say everyday, if I can save one plastic bag from going to landfill, I’ve done a good thing today. If I can save one pair of tights or one bottle top, I’ve done a good thing.
I like to say 'buy less, buy what you love and buy sustainably' . I like to buy things as much as any other person so I understand the need for some retail therapy. There's 2 questions I ask myself when I'm shopping - Does this item represent my beliefs (fairtrade, sustainable, organic etc.,)? And, when I wear it, will it make me feel happy? If the answer is yes to both then absolutely, buy it, treat yourself!
How do you source the materials for your creations?
In terms of sorting the materials for my creations, I've been very lucky to develop a great network of friends and acquaintances who all know that I am looking for materials for my art and collect it. One of my friends who was a manager at Sainsbury’s, she had the keys to the bins where they put the plastic bags that people come to recycle, I would get those. Friends who have shops would collect plastic bags for me, and florist friends give me flowers. Recently I was in touch with Chapel Down, the vineyard, where I went for my birthday. I love their wine so much, so I needed an excuse to come back. I’ve asked them to collect corks for me, I had to come back to collect the corks. All my friends have little rubbish bins in their houses for Anna. They collect bottle tops, ring pulls, corks, you name it. have embraced this idea of foraging for materials on social media and onlineIt’s been fantastic having social media as a tool. For example, when I need the materials, say I was running out of green plastic bags for a costume I was making. I did a few posts and people have started to bring them to me.
I think a lot of my friends who are also creatives have embraced this idea of foraging for materials on social media and online. It’s just amazing the sort of swapping culture that has really become more popular recently. With crystals I even was getting some from a girl who stopped making greeting cards. It’s amazing what you can find when you put your mind to it. It just seems so simple to go and buy something new online and get it delivered, but you really don’t have to, so if any of you want to try this method, let me know how you get on.
Who and what inspires you to create? What are your influences?
I don’t think I could pinpoint one influence or one inspiration. When I am working I actually don’t like to have too many moodboard images on my wall, because I don’t want to feel like I am picturising anybody. I love art, culture and history and historical costume. I love the Elizabethan period, I like the Victorian era, I love reading, I love going to museums, I am obsessed with the Wallace Collection, the V&A and the National Portrait Gallery, probably my favourite museums in London. Outside, whenever I am in Bournemouth, I love to visit the beautiful Preraphaelite paintings by Dante Gabriel Rossetti at Russel-Coates museum.
I love film, I love the world, I love the planet, I love nature, I love flowers, I love the intricate details of flowers, I love animals. There is no one particular thing that I could pinpoint to you.
I guess I would be sad if I didn't say amazing people like Dali and Frida Kahlo have always been an inspiration to me, their work is amazing and I think a good work ethic for me has been a driving force, especially with what I do, which is very meticulous and very time consuming, you have to have a passion for it, you have to have a structured day, you have to make yourself work, you have to push yourself. Having amazing friends/mentors who have really pushed me creatively to the next level, so I think surround yourself with people that will inspire you and will make you work harder.
Could you give some tips to create a more sustainable wardrobe?
Key to having a sustainable wardrobe is many things, including knowing what you are buying, what materials are your clothes, so if you are buying a blend of polyester and cotton that means the item is essentially bad for the world whilst if you by silk or cotton 100% natural fibers, that is a good thing for the world. I think it is better buying less and buying things that you truly love, which will in turn allow you to buy beautiful pieces made by happy people that are reasonably paid, which will make you feel great, not like Primark, clothes which make you think of the children who made them. And then, actually styling these pieces in lots of different ways, using accessories like belts and jewellery to make your clothes look different.
The next stage would be once you know for sure you are not going to wear it again, you can give it to a friend, give it to a charity shop, sell it on one of those fantastic apps and websites out there, like Vestiaire Collective, Depop, Ebay, Shpock, anything. In the very worst case scenario where your item is definitely not wearable or reparable, you can’t even repurpose it to make a cushion out of it, what you could do, you could chop up the trimmings, like buttons and zips, so they can be recycled separately or you can use them for a craft project. As long as it is a single material like cotton or silk or wool, they can still be recycled, which is very exciting, put it in a textile recycling bin. Kind of think about the whole life of the garment.
Any future events you would like to share with us?
It is very hard to talk about future plans at the moment because, obviously, as with everyone in the world, we all had plans and they got cancelled, and especially with the live events I had plans for, obviously they got either cancelled or postponed to next year. There are lots of things online that are happening that I am part of, so watch the space. I can’t really talk about anyhing yet, it’s all hush hush. It’s going to be an exciting year and I am fully embracing working from home and doing more things online, so hopefully this change is actually good, you know, we will all come out stronger out of it. That’s a way of seeing it now. I haven’t really been making so many big costumes because I usually make them for events or for big public things and I am not planning to do any of that anytime soon.
I found an outlet (among other fellow creatives) for my creativity making beautiful luxurious facemasks during the pandemic and spend a bit of time painting and drawing. I'm looking forward to the times ahead whether it normal or the new normal.
Thank you Anna
If you would like to see more of Anna's art, check her website: https://www.annakompaniets.com/
https://www.instagram.com/kompanietsanna/