Not so long ago there was a mental image conjured up of loose-fitting hemp clothing when “sustainable fashion” was mentioned. The term “Fast Fashion” has become more a part of mainstream media and as a result, we have all become more enlightened and aware of the dire effects it has on vulnerable workers and the environment.
There has been a boom in the number of ethical and sustainable fashion brands launched over the past 18 months. At Rag Revolution, we wanted to share some of our favourite Irish fashion brands who have made slow production and sustainability the core of their business and brand values.
Sampla is an innovative sustainable fashion startup who have created animal-friendly shoes from apples. Their vegan classic tennis shoe has been created from repurposed apple waste, who’d have thought? Not only are these shoes a better choice for the environment, but they are super chic and we predict that these will be the trainers on everyone’s feet in the next year. You can support their Kickstarter campaign.
Founded by Cork businesswoman Fiona Parfrey, SunDrift is an eco-friendly and sustainable outdoor lifestyle brand they create backpacks, towels, flasks and other outdoor accessories. This is a super cool brand that makes you want to book another trip, just so you have an excuse to buy some of their bits. They have just launched their new 25-litre backpack (perfect for day hikes, going to the gym, commuting etc) made from recycled plastic (GRS certified) and check out their new bum bags too!
There is a new luxury, slow, sustainable fashion brand created and designed by Aoife Maria Rooney. Her collection provides stylish, functional and elegantly designed bags and accessories. Finding the perfect tote will never be a problem, not that we have homegrown talent designing chic pieces like aoife.
Síológ is a sustainable children's wear brand, set up by Dublin-based Susan Grant whose mission is to create high-quality children's clothes that are sustainably and ethically-made. Síológ collection featured some gorgeous and unique prints that are not only beautiful but ethically created.
Theo + George is a sustainable fashion brand that emphasises on textile and social responsibility by giving people the ease of buying less and choosing well.
Their goal while creating collections is to empower their consumers to remove a layer of clutter from their world leaving space for more joy from just living life. The end result is beautifully designed, crafted, comfortable clothes that are washable, durable and built to last.
Multi-award-winning fashion designer Jennifer Rothwell’s brand celebrates Irish artists, folklore, legends, traditions through fashion with a contemporary twist. She specializes in digital print on luxurious fabrics, in clothing and accessories.
Jennifer’s prints and garments are manufactured in her studio in Ireland, which greatly reduces the carbon footprint. Rothwell's collections pair innovative design with high-quality finishing for a confident individual who loves colour and wants to stand out of the crowd.