Fashion and Apparel
Fashion and Apparel
Sustainability is today no longer an option but a must in Fashion and Apparel. The industry is in a paradigm shift, going down the responsible practices route-from conserving water, energy, and resources. Companies are practicing responsible sourcing, creating new ways of production, and employing design philosophies that are least harmful to the environment. These B2B networks and directories are helping to further this paradigm shift by connecting businesses with suppliers and partners who practice ethical and environmentally mindful practices. With sustainability at the forefront, the Fashion and Apparel industry is not just redesigning its future but also setting an important example for businesses around the world in all industries.
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Group SCAVI
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🇻🇳 Vietnam

Group SCAVI, a subsidiary of Corèle International, is an international outsourcing company that specializes in lingerie, swimwear, and sportswear. As of 2016, it is the largest foreign-invested company in the fashion textile clothing industry among the Vietnamese Top 500 largest companies, with personnel of 15,000 members across France, Vietnam, and Laos. The group has been experiencing an average annual growth of 25% since its inception, with a 40% growth rate in 2017 compared to the previous year. The company expects to achieve a 100% growth rate by 2020 and maintain strong financial health with zero debt. SCAVI is a pioneer in building the International Supply Chain (Hub Club) in Vietnam and uses 60% of materials originating from Vietnam. The company aims to achieve 100% of the materials from Vietnam by the end of 2020. The company is also a pioneer in social responsibility, providing education to the children of its members through a kindergarten that applies the Montessori Method. The company offers full scholarships to members with low incomes and provides vocational training in all functions of the group, in connection with the local training system where the group operates. Additionally, SCAVI prioritizes social housing for low-income individuals by offering free-of-charge accommodation for workers and houses for leasing. The workers can have real ownership after a few years of lease payments (in project). SCAVI is also a pioneer in environmental responsibility, maximizing recycling and promoting clean and green professional and residential areas. The company conducts an environmental audit at material suppliers to ensure they meet the company's standards.

Victoria's Secret
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🇺🇸 United States

Victoria's Secret & Co. is a leading retailer of women's clothing, specializing in ready-to-wear items such as coats, suits, and dresses. The company offers a wide variety of styles to suit every taste, and provides excellent customer service to ensure that every shopper finds the perfect outfit. Whether you're looking for a new work wardrobe or a special occasion outfit, Victoria's Secret & Co. is the perfect place to shop.

STELLA MCCARTNEY
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🇬🇧 United Kingdom

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.

STARDOG LOUNGEWEAR
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🇺🇸 United States

Stardog loungewear is a group of like-minded people who believe in the power of organic hemp. This ancient fiber is the foundation of the fabric of the future. Why? Because of the benefits for you, them, and our planet.

They design the highest quality loungewear for people who call for sustainability, demand transparency, seek quality and embrace style. They believe that a good design must serve a purpose. Their purpose is to deliver season-less versatile pieces that embody mindful living while giving back to the planet.

At Stardog they feel an inherent responsibility for taking a stand against inequality and unethical practices. This is why transparency is the pillar of their supply chain. Every garment is traceable from its origin to its destination, you, our consumer. Our goal is to change the Fashion Industry; one hoodie at a time.

At Stardog, they are reframing their connection with nature by working with materials that can easily go back to where they came from. They believe that small changes have a big impact. That's why they believe in the super environmental benefits of hemp.

Hemp is extraordinarily soft on our skin and will get smoother with every wash. At the same time, hemp is one of the strongest fibers which makes the fabric more durable than cotton. As a result, hemp garments will last longer and consequently less fashion waste generated.

Adore Me
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🇺🇸 United States

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.

AKIN TEKSTIL AS
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🇹🇷 Turkey

AKIN TEKSTIL has developed into an icon for quality and continuity thanks to its dedicated staff and customer satisfaction philosophy. It has been increasing its exports every year as a result of its state-of-the-art technologies, research and development activities, and successful sales and marketing strategies. Akın Tekstil is a top fabric producer in Turkey and it takes pride in its know-how and experience.

It has a vertically integrated production facility which enables the company to provide full service to its customers. Although it is a family business, the company has been successful in hiring professionals and managing the company in a more corporate manner. In addition to this, it is a publicly-traded company. All in all, it is a reliable company with renowned financial strength.

FENWICK
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🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Opening their first store in 1882, Fenwick is rich with heritage and history as the UK’s largest family-owned department store group. They are on an exciting journey, transforming the business to exceed the expectations of their customers, and they are always on the lookout for talent to join them.

They have 9 stores across the UK, differing in size and offering, specific to their local community. These stores are supported by their distribution centres, ensuring their fabulous product reaches their customers at the right time.

Restaurants are another key focus for Fenwick and a strong growth area in their business. They offer a wide variety of dining options to their customers across most of their stores. From exquisite hand-made patisserie and baked goods at Mason + Rye to their Mediterranean inspired tapas restaurant and wine bar Fuego. Fenwick has something for everyone and is a great place to start your hospitality career or hone your skills alongside their expert team.

They are fortunate enough to say that 4 of their stores also house their functional teams, allowing for a truly collaborative approach.

In 2018, they launched their first eCommerce website and have been building on this ever since, setting up their historic business for a multichannel future. With exciting growth plans ahead of them, this is indeed a place of innovation, excitement and opportunity.

COTTON USA™
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🇺🇸 United States

COTTON USA™ is a brand and marketing program that promotes and enhances the reputation and demand for U.S. cotton both domestically and internationally. It is managed by Cotton Council International (CCI), which is the export promotion arm of the National Cotton Council of America.

The COTTON USA™ program represents cotton produced in the United States and emphasizes its quality, sustainability, and traceability. It works with cotton industry stakeholders, including farmers, textile manufacturers, brands, and retailers, to promote U.S. cotton and its benefits throughout the global supply chain.

The COTTON USA™ brand provides assurance to consumers and businesses that the cotton they are purchasing is sourced from the United States and meets certain quality and sustainability standards. It represents the commitment to responsible production practices, including water and resource efficiency, reduced pesticide use, and respect for labor rights.

Through its marketing efforts, COTTON USA™ aims to build awareness and demand for U.S. cotton among textile manufacturers, brands, and consumers. It highlights the attributes of U.S. cotton, such as its softness, strength, and natural sustainability, to differentiate it from other cotton sources in the market.

The program also focuses on educating and connecting textile manufacturers and brands with U.S. cotton suppliers, facilitating trade relationships and collaborations. It provides market information, organizes trade missions and events, and offers resources and support to help businesses integrate U.S. cotton into their products and supply chains.

By promoting U.S. cotton, the COTTON USA™ program supports American cotton farmers, contributes to the U.S. economy, and fosters sustainability and responsible practices in the global cotton industry.

Overall, COTTON USA™ serves as a brand and marketing program that promotes U.S. cotton, emphasizing its quality, sustainability, and traceability. It works to create awareness and demand for U.S. cotton and facilitates connections between suppliers and manufacturers in the global cotton supply chain.

Chico'S Fas
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🇺🇸 United States

Chico's FAS, Inc.: Redefining Women's Fashion

Chico's FAS, Inc. is not just a fashion retailer; it's a brand that has been redefining women's fashion for decades. With a legacy built on style, comfort, and empowerment, Chico's FAS, Inc. has become a trusted name in the world of women's apparel, offering a diverse range of collections that celebrate individuality and sophistication.

Since its inception, Chico's FAS, Inc. has held a steadfast commitment to its customers. The brand understands that fashion is more than just clothing; it's a form of self-expression. With this philosophy in mind, Chico's FAS, Inc. has consistently designed and curated clothing that empowers women to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin.

At the heart of Chico's FAS, Inc. lies a dedication to quality. Every garment is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using the finest materials and fabrics. From the perfect fit of a pair of pants to the softness of a knit sweater, Chico's FAS, Inc. ensures that every piece meets the highest standards of excellence.

Innovation is key to Chico's FAS, Inc.'s approach to fashion. They blend classic styles with contemporary trends, resulting in clothing that is not only timeless but also on the cutting edge of fashion. Their commitment to innovation extends to the shopping experience, with digital platforms that make it easy for customers to explore their wide range of products.

Chico's FAS, Inc. understands that women's fashion is not one-size-fits-all. That's why they offer a variety of collections to suit different tastes and lifestyles. Whether you're looking for casual wear that exudes effortless style or sophisticated pieces for a special occasion, Chico's FAS, Inc. has you covered.

Beyond clothing, Chico's FAS, Inc. offers a curated selection of accessories and jewelry that add the perfect finishing touches to any outfit. These accessories are more than just adornments; they are expressions of individuality and personality.

Chico's FAS, Inc. is more than a brand; it's a community. Their boutiques and digital platforms create spaces for women to connect, share, and celebrate their love for fashion. They believe that fashion is a form of empowerment, and they are dedicated to helping women embrace their unique style.

For those who appreciate fashion that celebrates individuality, Chico's FAS, Inc. welcomes you to explore their world of style and empowerment. Discover why their commitment to quality, innovation, and inclusivity has made them a beloved choice for women seeking to express themselves through fashion.

Sustainability in the apparel industy is increasingly important, which is notorious for its environmental and social impact. Sustainable fashion seeks to minimize the negative impact of fashion on the environment, as well as the human cost of producing clothes. This involves adopting sustainable practices throughout the entire lifecycle of a garment, from sourcing and production to distribution and disposal.

2. Is Sustainability beneficial in the Apparel industry

A. Environmental Benefits

  • Reduces Carbon Footprint: Sustainable practices in the apparel industry can help reduce the carbon footprint of clothing production. This can be achieved by using eco-friendly materials, reducing water and energy consumption, and reducing waste, which leads to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

  • Reduces Water Usage: The production of clothing requires a significant amount of water, and sustainable practices can reduce the amount of water used. This includes using recycled or regenerated water, implementing water-efficient processes, and using water-saving technologies.

  • Reduces Pollution: Sustainable practices in the apparel industry can help reduce the pollution caused by clothing production. This includes using eco-friendly materials and reducing the use of harmful chemicals in the manufacturing process.

  • Preserves Natural Resources: Sustainable practices in the apparel industry can help preserve natural resources by using sustainable materials and reducing waste. This can help conserve resources such as water, energy, and raw materials.

B. Social Benefits

  • Improves Working Conditions: Sustainable practices in the apparel industry can help improve working conditions for workers. This includes providing safe and healthy working environments, promoting workers' rights, and implementing fair labor practices throughout the supply chain.

  • Supports Local Communities: Sustainable practices in the apparel industry can support local communities by sourcing materials from local suppliers, providing fair wages, and creating job opportunities.

  • Promotes Diversity and Inclusion: Sustainable practices in the apparel industry can promote diversity and inclusion by embracing different cultures and backgrounds, and promoting equality and fair treatment for all.

C. Economic Benefits

  • Promotes Long-Term Growth: Sustainable practices in the apparel industry can promote long-term growth and profitability by reducing costs associated with waste and inefficiency, increasing customer loyalty, and reducing supply chain risks.

  • Reduces Supply Chain Risks: Sustainable practices in the apparel industry can reduce supply chain risks by promoting transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain. This includes ensuring ethical labor practices, responsible sourcing of materials, and reducing environmental impact.

  • Promotes Innovation: Sustainable practices in the apparel industry can promote innovation by encouraging the development of new technologies and processes that are more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

3. Producing Sustainable Apparel

A. In terms of materials

Producing sustainable apparel involves a range of practices and strategies aimed at minimizing the negative impact of clothing production on the environment and society. Sustainable apparel production involves the following key aspects:

  • Sustainable Materials: The use of sustainable materials is an essential aspect of producing sustainable apparel. Sustainable materials are produced using fewer resources, generate fewer emissions, and have a lower environmental impact than conventional materials. Examples of sustainable materials include organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, recycled polyester, and lyocell. Sustainable materials can be sourced from suppliers who maintain ethical labor practices, and are produced in a manner that protects the environment.

  • Sustainable Manufacturing Processes: The manufacturing process is a significant source of environmental impact in the apparel industry. Sustainable manufacturing processes can help minimize this impact by reducing water and energy consumption, using renewable energy sources, and reducing waste through recycling and upcycling. Adopting closed-loop manufacturing processes that minimize waste, and reduce the use of harmful chemicals can also help promote sustainable apparel production.

  • Responsible Sourcing: Responsible sourcing is an essential aspect of producing sustainable apparel. This involves ensuring that materials used in apparel production are sourced from suppliers who maintain ethical labor practices and environmental standards. This includes promoting transparency in the supply chain, ensuring fair wages, and providing safe working conditions for workers. Companies can also use tools such as certifications like Fair Trade, GOTS, Bluesign, and OEKO-TEX, which help to ensure that materials used in clothing production are environmentally friendly and produced in a socially responsible manner.

  • Circular Economy: The concept of a circular economy is based on the idea of creating a closed-loop system where waste is minimized, and materials are reused or recycled. This approach to apparel production involves designing products that are durable, recyclable, or biodegradable, and implementing closed-loop supply chains that promote the reuse of materials and resources. The circular economy approach to apparel production can help minimize the environmental impact of the industry and promote long-term sustainability.

  • Consumer Education: Consumer education is a critical aspect of producing sustainable apparel. Educating consumers about the environmental and social impact of clothing production can help promote sustainable consumption practices, such as buying from sustainable brands, minimizing waste, and recycling clothes. Companies can also promote sustainable consumption by providing information about the materials used in clothing production, the manufacturing process, and the company's sustainability efforts.

B. Innovative Technologies

Innovative technologies are playing an increasingly important role in producing sustainable apparel, as they help reduce the environmental impact of clothing production and promote a more sustainable and ethical industry. Here are some examples of innovative technologies used in producing sustainable apparel:

  • 3D Printing: 3D printing is a technology that allows manufacturers to create complex designs using less material and with minimal waste. This technology can help reduce the environmental impact of clothing production, by minimizing the amount of material used and waste generated in the manufacturing process.

  • Digital Printing: Digital printing is a technology that uses digital images to print designs onto fabrics. This technology can help reduce water and chemical usage in clothing production, by eliminating the need for pre-treatment and reducing dye waste. Digital printing can also help reduce lead times and production costs and can be used to create unique and complex designs.

  • Laser Cutting: Laser cutting is a technology that uses a high-powered laser to cut and engrave materials. This technology can help reduce waste, as it allows manufacturers to cut fabrics with greater accuracy, and create patterns that generate less waste. Laser cutting can also be used to create intricate designs, and to add unique and interesting details to garments.

  • Recycling Technologies: Recycling technologies, such as chemical recycling and mechanical recycling, can be used to convert waste textiles into new materials. Chemical recycling involves breaking down textile waste into its chemical components, which can be used to create new materials. Mechanical recycling involves shredding and melting textile waste to create new fabrics. These technologies can help reduce the environmental impact of clothing production, by minimizing the amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills.

  • Nanotechnology: Nanotechnology is the study and application of materials at the nanoscale. This technology can be used in clothing production to create fabrics that are more durable, breathable, and water-resistant. Nanotechnology can also be used to reduce the environmental impact of clothing production, by creating fabrics that require less energy and water to produce.

  • Biotechnology: Biotechnology involves using living organisms to create or modify products. This technology can be used in clothing production to create new materials, such as biodegradable fabrics made from plant-based materials. Biotechnology can also be used to reduce the environmental impact of clothing production, by creating fabrics that require fewer resources to produce.

  • Smart Textiles: Smart textiles are fabrics that can sense, react, or adapt to their environment. These fabrics can be used in clothing production to create garments that regulate temperature, monitor vital signs, or provide protection from the sun. Smart textiles can also be used to reduce the environmental impact of clothing production, by creating fabrics that are more durable and require less frequent washing.

  • Blockchain: Blockchain is a technology that allows for secure and transparent record-keeping. This technology can be used in clothing production to ensure that materials are sourced from ethical and sustainable suppliers and that products are manufactured in a responsible and sustainable manner. By using blockchain to track the supply chain, companies can promote transparency and accountability in the apparel industry.

  • Circular Business Models: Circular business models are designed to promote sustainability by creating closed-loop systems in which materials are reused or recycled. This approach can be used in clothing production to create garments that are designed to be easily disassembled and recycled at the end of their life. Companies can also use circular business models to create closed-loop supply chains that reduce waste and promote sustainable consumption practices.

4. Leading Sustainable Apparel Brands

  • Girlfriend Collective

  • Outerknown

  • Everlane

  • Nudie Jeans

  • Organic Basics

  • Reformation

  • Mud Jeans

  • Patagonia

  • Cotopaxi

  • Naadam

  • Eileen Fisher

  • Nisolo

  • Allbirds

  • Cariuma

  • Rothy’s

5. Sustainable Apparel Standards

Sustainable apparel standards are guidelines and criteria that companies can use to ensure that their products are produced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. These standards are designed to promote sustainable practices in the apparel industry, and they cover a range of issues, including environmental impact, social responsibility, and animal welfare. Here are some examples of sustainable apparel standards:

  • Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): The Global Organic Textile Standard is a standard for organic fibers, such as cotton, and it covers the entire textile supply chain, from harvesting to manufacturing.

  • Fair Trade Certified: Fair Trade Certified is a standard that ensures that products are produced in a socially responsible manner. This standard covers a range of issues, including fair labor practices, safe working conditions, and community development.

  • Bluesign: Bluesign is a standard that focuses on the environmental impact of textile production. This standard ensures that products are produced using environmentally friendly processes, and it requires that companies minimize their water and energy usage, as well as their use of harmful chemicals.

  • Cradle to Cradle Certified: Cradle to Cradle Certified is a standard that focuses on the entire life cycle of a product, from production to disposal. This standard ensures that products are produced using sustainable materials, that the manufacturing process is environmentally friendly, and that the product can be easily recycled or composted at the end of its life.

  • Animal Welfare Approved: Animal Welfare Approved is a standard that ensures that animal products, such as wool and leather, are produced in a humane and environmentally responsible manner.

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