There is no one way to view this topic. Some designers stick to using natural materials, some to making locally. While ethical production should be a must, it is really only 10 per cent of the full supply chain. It is estimated 93 per cent of Australian brands do not know where their fabrics came from, and we want to challenge that.

The circulation of the fashion ecosystem goes beyond this. We are leaning to see the bigger picture and are super obsessed about it — everything from growing textile fibres, making fabrics, dyeing, trims, manufacturing, packaging, shipping, garment care and our biggest obsession: recycling, or call it "upcycling" if you like — making the old new again, and creating lovable, sustainable garments from scraps. (that look much better than they sound)

We've asked all the questions we could think of to give both us and, more importantly you, peace of mind about what you're buying and wearing — all the way back to growers. 

Over the past 12 months, we’ve searched tirelessly for the right fair trade manufacturing partner, one that can live and breathe our environmental and ethical beliefs. And we’ve met our match! Our factory is located in Laishan Town, Yantai, in north east China. Founded in 1999, it is a trusted supply source for our hero brand Patagonia. It specialises in sourcing some of the most environmentally friendly fibres, spin the highest quality yarn and knit as well as investing heavily in recycling technologies, all under one roof.

And there's more...

Currently, 83 per cent of the factory’s energy consumption is renewable. It produces 70 per cent of our organic and recycled fabrics and employs more than 160 people. Every employee is compensated with above standard industry salary rates plus annual paid bonus. Maximum working hours  for full time workers strictly capped at 40 - 48 hours a week.

The factory provides medical insurance, paid maternity leave, and cooked lunches for all employees. It also organises free annual outing for its employees to enrich workers' daily lives and promote the relationship between them and the management team.

Transparent and environmental production

We chose to work with this supplier as it is transparent with the textile supply chain, from farming, weaving, all the way to production. What's more to love? it is committed to ethical and social responsibility - 5 per cent of its profit are dedicated to benefit charity organisations with a focus on the health and development for children in rural areas of China.

As a young business, we are learning everyday and committed to living and breathing our values over our profits. While we are trying to tick as many boxes as we can on the design and production end of things, investing in the future generation is our contribution to equality. Education is the first step to end poverty, hence our collaboration with ONE GIRL, which sees us send one girl to school with every item sold*.

We strongly believe when a girl receives education, she can become a woman with powerful vision.

As we learn how to be a better, more responsible business every day, we’d love to hear if you have any links, resources or data insights related to the sustainable topic. Currently we’re looking for partners to provide an eco-friendly shipping packaging solution. If anyone wants to work with us to help continue and make more magic, let’s chat.