Sustainable fashion to me means developing products with as small an impact on the environment as possible. I consider:
The impact of production on the natural world. - I use leather produced from tanneries who I know operate more sustainable tanning methods. The majority of our products use organic cotton canvas, and vegetable tanned leathers. Vegetable tanned leathers currently make up only 15% of leather produced globally. It is a slower tanning process, using less toxic chemicals to turn the raw hides into some of the most beautiful & highest quality leather that can be found.
Traceability I work with regenerative farms, reputable tanneries and UK based foundries to ensure as many elements of my products are as traceable as possible. I work with partners who share my values and there is no outsourcing. Everything is produced by my own fair, slightly calloused hands.
Reusing and repurposing materials I mend, repair and restore leather goods. I encourage a culture of reusing and repurposing the old into something new and functional.
Making items to last I use traditional skills to make items robust enough to last - many of my items are handstitched for a stronger and more long lasting stitch.
Education We all only know what we know. I aim to be open to talk to consumers about the challenges of sustainability. Much of today’s fashion garments are mass produced, cutting costs by reducing quality and exploiting resources ,rather than developing sustainable fashion initiatives.
Teaching traditional leather work skills Whether it is repairing loved leather goods or making your own top quality new leather item, I focus on teaching traditional hand skills, keeping these tried and tested heritage skills alive.
