Founded in 2011 as an online lingerie startup, Adore Me has evolved into a DTC lingerie and apparel brand serving women of all sizes and budgets at all phases of life. The brand is transforming the way we shop with a pioneering Home Try-On commerce service, a series of innovation-driven products, and a mission of making sustainable shopping accessible to all, becoming the first Certified B Corporation intimate apparel brand in the U.S. As of December 2022, Adore Me joined the Victoria’s Secret & Co. family of brands.
J.Crew Group, LLC is a renowned American multi-brand, multi-channel specialty retailer known for its classic style and high-quality clothing. The company's journey began in 1947 when Mitchell Cinader and Saul Charles founded Popular Merchandise, Inc., which initially sold low-priced women's clothing through in-home demonstrations. Over the years, the company evolved, and by 1983, it had rebranded itself as J.Crew, Inc., marking the beginning of a new era in retail fashion.
The company's growth was fueled by its successful catalog operations, which offered a Ralph Lauren look at a more affordable price. This strategy led to explosive growth, with annual sales skyrocketing from $3 million to over $100 million within five years. In 1989, J.Crew opened its first retail store in South Street Seaport, Manhattan, setting the stage for a nationwide expansion.
Today, J.Crew Group operates under the ownership of Anchorage Capital Group and Leonard Green & Partners. It has established itself as an internationally recognized omnichannel retailer with a family of brands that includes J.Crew, J.Crew Factory, and Madewell. The company's product range is extensive, offering jewelry, accessories, footwear, and apparel for women, men, and children. It also sells home goods, office supplies, tableware, travel gear, and more.
J.Crew Group is particularly known for its signature categories such as cashmere, coats, blazers, and pants. It has also made a name for itself through collaborations with some of the coolest brands in the market. As of 2016, the company operated more than 450 retail stores across the United States, and despite facing challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a bankruptcy protection filing in 2020, J.Crew has continued to be a staple in the American fashion industry.
The company's commitment to quality and its ability to stay in tune with the evolving fashion trends have allowed it to maintain a loyal customer base. With a focus on providing a Ralph Lauren look without the high-end price tag, J.Crew has carved out a niche for itself in the competitive world of retail fashion.
HanesBrands Inc., known as HBI on the New York Stock Exchange, is a global company with a rich history and a vast portfolio of brands that have become household names. Founded in 1901, HanesBrands has grown into a multinational clothing company headquartered in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA. The company employs approximately 65,300 people internationally and operates in 32 countries.
HanesBrands is renowned for its everyday apparel that is celebrated for comfort, quality, and value. The company's iconic brands include Hanes, the leading basic apparel brand in the United States; Champion, an innovator at the intersection of lifestyle and athletic apparel; and Bonds, which is setting new standards for design and sustainability.
The company's business model is unique in the apparel industry because it owns the majority of its manufacturing facilities, producing about 80 percent of the apparel it sells. This ownership allows HanesBrands to maintain a competitive advantage in terms of cost, scale, flexibility, and compliance with best-in-class management practices. The company operates a balanced supply chain across hemispheres, including fabric production, cut parts, and sewing.
HanesBrands products are sold in a variety of retail settings, including mass-merchandise, mid-tier, department stores, college bookstores, dollar stores, food and drug, and club stores, as well as directly to consumers through the Internet and nearly 1,000 company-owned retail stores worldwide.
In terms of corporate social responsibility, HanesBrands has a strong reputation for ethical business practices and workplace quality. It is the only apparel producer to ever be honored for its workplace practices in Central America and the Caribbean by the Great Place to Work Institute. Additionally, the company has been named Forbes Best Large Employer and is an 11-time honoree of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Energy Star.
HanesBrands has also set ambitious 2030 goals to improve the lives of people, protect the planet, and produce sustainable products. The company's Full Potential plan is a strategy to help HanesBrands become the most admired, consumer-centric everyday apparel company in the world. This plan focuses on four key pillars: growing the global Champion brand, reigniting innerwear growth, driving consumer-centricity, and focusing the portfolio.
In recent years, HanesBrands has expanded its brand portfolio through acquisitions, including the purchase of Maidenform for $575 million in 2013, the Australian-based clothing and underwear company Pacific Brands in 2016, and the acquisition of Alternative Apparel for $60 million in 2017.
With a net sales figure of $6.7 billion in 2020, HanesBrands continues to be a dominant player in the apparel industry, leveraging its world-class supply chain and focusing on strategic initiatives to unlock its full potential and deliver long-term growth that benefits all stakeholders.
Columbia Sportswear: Innovating Adventure and Outdoor Performance
Columbia Sportswear is a globally renowned outdoor and adventure apparel and footwear company, founded in 1938 by German immigrants Gert and Marie Boyle in Portland, Oregon, USA. Over the decades, it has grown into an iconic brand, synonymous with quality, innovation, and a passion for the outdoors. With a deep-rooted commitment to helping people enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest, Columbia Sportswear has become a trusted companion for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.
The company's mission is simple yet profound: to design and create high-performance gear that empowers individuals to explore the outdoors comfortably and confidently, regardless of the weather conditions. Columbia Sportswear is known for its cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions that ensure customers stay warm, dry, and protected, whether they are hiking, skiing, fishing, or simply enjoying the fresh air.
Columbia's flagship product line, including jackets, pants, boots, and accessories, is carefully engineered to meet the demands of rugged terrains and extreme climates. Their patented technologies, such as Omni-Heat™, Omni-Tech™, and Omni-Shield™, provide superior insulation, breathability, and water resistance, ensuring that adventurers can conquer the elements with ease.
Beyond functional excellence, Columbia Sportswear is dedicated to sustainability. They actively pursue eco-friendly materials and production processes, emphasizing their commitment to minimizing their environmental impact. By doing so, they encourage responsible exploration of the outdoors while preserving the very environments they love.
Columbia Sportswear's commitment to its customers extends beyond products. Their exceptional customer service ensures that every outdoor enthusiast receives expert advice, product knowledge, and support, making their adventures enjoyable and safe.
As a company rooted in the Pacific Northwest's stunning landscapes, Columbia Sportswear understands the transformative power of nature. Through their philanthropic efforts, they work to foster a deeper connection between people and the outdoors, believing that these experiences enrich lives and promote conservation efforts.
In conclusion, Columbia Sportswear is more than just a brand; it's a symbol of adventure, durability, and sustainability. With a legacy spanning over eight decades, it continues to inspire and equip outdoor enthusiasts with the gear they need to explore, discover, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
Wolverine Worldwide, Inc.
Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. stands as a global leader in the footwear and apparel industry, boasting a diverse portfolio of renowned brands that cater to a wide spectrum of consumer needs. Established in 1883, the company's enduring commitment to excellence is complemented by its progressive approach to sustainability, particularly in materials and practices.
Brands Representing Excellence
Wolverine Worldwide's impressive array of brands includes:
- Bates: Known for its military and tactical footwear, prioritizing durability and performance.
- Cat Footwear: Offers rugged work boots and casual footwear designed for lasting comfort and reliability.
- Chaco: Renowned for outdoor adventure sandals, with an emphasis on adjustable straps and functionality.
- Harley-Davidson Footwear: Blends style and durability, capturing the essence of the iconic Harley-Davidson brand.
- Hush Puppies: A symbol of casual and comfortable footwear with classic designs for various occasions.
- HYTEST: Specializes in safety footwear, providing protective solutions for diverse work environments.
- Merrell: Offers high-performance outdoor footwear and apparel for hiking and trail running enthusiasts.
- Saucony: A leader in athletic footwear, especially running shoes, with a focus on innovation and design.
- Stride Rite: Specializes in children's footwear, prioritizing comfort and support for young feet.
- Sweaty Betty: A go-to brand for activewear and athleisure, combining style and functionality.
- Wolverine: Known for work boots and outdoor footwear, delivering durability and reliability.
Sustainability at the Core
Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. places a strong emphasis on sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly practices and materials across its brands. The company actively engages in gots-certified initiatives, utilizing sustainable materials such as hemp, organic cotton, and other environmentally conscious options.
Commitment to Responsible Practices
Wolverine Worldwide implements sustainable practices throughout its supply chain, ensuring ethical sourcing and production. The company's dedication to responsible manufacturing extends to the utilization of recycled materials, minimizing environmental impact.
Embracing Certifications
The company aligns with globally recognized standards such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), emphasizing the use of organic fibers and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes.
Transparency and Innovation
Wolverine Worldwide maintains a commitment to transparency, regularly communicating its sustainability efforts to the community. The brand's innovative approach includes a focus on new technologies and sustainable solutions that contribute to reducing its carbon footprint.
In essence, Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. not only stands as a beacon of excellence in the footwear and apparel industry but also as a trailblazer in sustainable practices, consistently prioritizing the well-being of both consumers and the planet.
ECOALF RECYCLED FABRICS, S.L.
Mission and vision
ECOALF's mission is to create a new generation of recycled fabrics with the same quality, design and technical properties as the best non-recycled ones. The company's vision is to show that there is no need to use natural resources in a careless way, and that waste can be a valuable source of raw materials.
Products and services
ECOALF offers a wide range of products for men, women and kids, including coats, jackets, sweatshirts, knitwear, shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, skirts, swimwear, footwear, bags, backpacks, accessories and more. All the products are made from recycled materials, such as plastic bottles, fishing nets, tires, coffee grounds, wool, cotton and down feathers. ECOALF also provides a service called ECOALF Foundation, which is a non-profit organization that promotes environmental awareness and supports clean-up initiatives in the oceans.
History and achievements
ECOALF was founded in 2009 by Javier Goyeneche, who was inspired by his son Alfredo (whose name is the origin of the brand) and his concern for the future of the planet. The company started as a research and development project to find innovative ways to transform waste into high-quality fabrics. In 2012, ECOALF launched its first collection of outerwear made from recycled plastic bottles. Since then, the company has expanded its product portfolio and its sources of recycled materials. Some of the company's achievements are:
- In 2015, ECOALF became the first Spanish fashion brand to be certified as a B Corporation, which means that it meets the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.
- In 2016, ECOALF launched the project "Upcycling the Oceans", which involves collaborating with fishermen to collect plastic waste from the Mediterranean Sea and turn it into yarn and fabric.
- In 2017, ECOALF won the European Business Award for the Environment in the category of Product and Services for Sustainable Development, for its innovative use of recycled materials.
- In 2018, ECOALF opened its first flagship store in Madrid, which showcases the company's commitment to sustainability and design.
- In 2019, ECOALF partnered with Swatch to create a watch strap made from recycled plastic bottles, as part of the Swatch x You collection.
- In 2020, ECOALF launched its first vegan collection, which uses plant-based materials instead of animal-derived ones, such as corn, bamboo and algae.
Values and principles
ECOALF's values and principles are based on the following concepts:
- Because there is no planet B: This is the company's slogan and motto, which reflects its awareness of the environmental challenges and its responsibility to act accordingly.
- Quality and innovation: ECOALF strives to create products that are not only sustainable, but also durable, functional and stylish, by using the latest technologies and processes.
- Transparency and traceability: ECOALF ensures that its products are made in a ethical and respectful way, by working with certified suppliers and partners, and by providing information about the origin and composition of its materials.
- Education and collaboration: ECOALF believes that change is possible through knowledge and cooperation, by raising awareness among consumers and society, and by supporting initiatives that share its vision and values.
Girlfriend Collective is a sustainable activewear brand that makes stylish and comfortable clothing from recycled materials, like old plastic water bottles. They're committed to ethical manufacturing and transparency throughout their supply chain.
Here are some of the key things that make Girlfriend Collective unique:
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Sustainability: They use recycled materials in all of their products, which helps to reduce their environmental impact. They also have a Pre-Loved Marketplace where you can buy and sell gently used Girlfriend Collective clothing.
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Inclusivity: They offer a wide range of sizes, from XXS to 6XL, so that everyone can find clothes that fit them well.
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Transparency: They're upfront about their manufacturing process and the materials they use. You can find detailed information about each product on their website.
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Community: They have a strong community of customers who love their products and their commitment to sustainability.
Girlfriend Collective is a great choice for anyone who wants to look good and feel good about the clothes they wear. They're a company that's making a positive impact on the world, and their products are both stylish and functional.
Here are some additional details that you might find interesting:
- Girlfriend Collective was founded in 2015 by Ellie D'Alelio and Sean de Vries.
- They're based in Seattle, Washington.
- They've been featured in Forbes, Vogue, and The New York Times.
- They offer a variety of activewear products, including leggings, sports bras, tops, shorts, and more.
- They also have a collection of loungewear and swimwear.
Fast Retailing Co., Ltd
Fast Retailing Co., Ltd is a public Japanese multinational retail holding company that operates various apparel brands, such as Uniqlo, J Brand, Theory, and GU. The company was founded in 1949 as Men's Shop Ogori Shoji, and changed its name to Fast Retailing in 1991. It is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, and has a market capitalization of over $36 billion as of January 2024.
The company's vision is to create "a new era of growth" by offering high-quality functional apparel at reasonable prices, and by expanding its global presence and social impact. The company's flagship brand, Uniqlo, is known for its innovative products, such as Heattech, AIRism, and Ultra Light Down. The company also owns other brands that cater to different segments and markets, such as J Brand for premium denim, Theory for contemporary fashion, and GU for low-priced casual wear.
The company's revenue for fiscal year 2018 was ¥2,130 billion, and its net income was ¥1,050 billion. The company employed 52,839 people as of 2018. The company's chairman, president, and CEO is Tadashi Yanai, who is also the richest person in Japan.
Ariat is a company that is constantly innovating to create products that outperform the competition in a variety of outdoor and work environments. The company designs and produces high-quality riding boots, hiking boots, work boots, casual shoes, and riding apparel and accessories. Its footwear is designed to maximize performance, comfort, and durability. The company sells its products in the US, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Canada through a network of retail partners. It also ships internationally to select countries through its partnership with Borderfree, a global ecommerce solution that supports billing in more than 60 global currencies.
Born and raised in London and the English countryside, Stella McCartney graduated from Central St Martins in 1995. A signature style of sharp tailoring, natural confidence and sexy femininity was immediately apparent in her first collection and after only two collections, in 1997, she was appointed the Creative Director of Chloe in Paris and enjoyed great success during her tenure.
Stella McCartney launched her own fashion house under her name in a partnership with Kering as a 50/50 joint venture and showed her first collection in Paris in October 2001. A lifelong vegetarian, Stella McCartney does not use any leather or fur in her designs. Her collections include women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, accessories, lingerie, eyewear, fragrance and kids.
Stella McCartney now operates 51 freestanding stores in locations including Manhattan’s Soho, London’s Mayfair and Brompton Cross, LA’s West Hollywood, Paris’ Palais Royal, Milan, Tokyo, Shanghai and Beijing. Her collections are now distributed in 77 countries through 863 doors including specialty shops, and department stores, as well as shipping to 100 countries online.
In 2003, Stella McCartney launched her first perfume “STELLA”. In addition to the mainline collection, a long-term partnership with adidas was introduced in September 2004. The critically acclaimed sports performance collection adidas by Stella McCartney, has since successfully grown to include several athletic disciplines including running, gym, yoga, tennis, swimming, winter sports and cycling.
In 2008, a new lingerie collection of aspirational styles that reflect a modern woman’s needs was launched. In Winter 2010 Stella McCartney introduced the Falabella handbag, distinguish by a braided chain detail the bag has since become one of the designer’s best-selling items. Also in 2010 the first Stella McCartney Kids collection debuted, capturing the spirit and energy of kids today for boys, girls and babies ages newborn to 14 years. In 2011 all Stella McCartney’s sunglasses adapted the designer’s eco-friendly ethos and have since expanded into optical and kids styles.
For the Olympic Summer Games in 2012, Stella McCartney was appointed Team GB’s Creative Director by adidas – the first time in the history of the games that a leading fashion designer has designed the apparel for a country’s team across all competitions for both the Olympic and the Paralympic Games.
2016 was another big year for the designer, launching the new fragrance POP; in the moment, bold, and irreverent, the scent for a new generation of women. During the summer she unveiled her first full swim collection of naturally feminine, naturally confident and modern designs without compromising on functionality and fit. Additionally, the designer was once again appointed as Team GB’s Creative Director by adidas for the Summer 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. Most recently the designer debuted her first ever menswear collection under her eponymous brand label.
Stella McCartney’s commitment to sustainability is evident throughout all her collections and is part of the brand’s ethos to being a responsible, honest, and modern company.