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Everything you need to know about The Design Collective’s Sustainable Edit

Written by AMULYA MISRA for THE DESIGN COLLECTIVE

This last year was filled with lockdowns that subsequently forced individuals to face the ongoing climate crisis. It led to a new awakening amongst consumers about the very real issues of the fashion industry. Although the polluting effects of the industry have never been a secret, there has been a rise in consciousness about sustainable fashion. 

The sustainable fashion space can be overwhelming for many to navigate. Thus, we mapped out a plan to help sustainable and ethical brands find a voice within the Sri Lankan fashion space and connect with their audience. With that in mind, we have launched a designated space within our new store, The Edit, dedicated to brands making a conscious effort to be more responsible in their supply chain. 

These conscious brands come with six core principles on sustainability:

  1. Reduced chemical usage
    • Minimal quantities of toxic chemicals are used in manufacturing the product so as to not harm people or the environment. 
    • Consciously manage the chemicals used throughout the supply chain.
  2. Reduced waste
    • Reduction and elimination of wastage to reach a zero-waste supply chain. 
    • Using processes to upcycle and reduce wastage in the design, manufacturing and production stage of the product to include effluents, water and energy. 
  3. Use of recycled materials
    • Moving away from the take-make-waste model to support a circular economy by using recycled materials or recyclable materials in their products and packaging.
  4. Employing local artisans 
    • Created by artisans using traditional techniques that have been passed down generations
    • Made by hand which depicts the skill of the artisan and promotes uniqueness
  5. Fair wages
    • A set fair wage policy
    • Made under safe working conditions
    • Promoting responsible production through equitable trade opportunities, skill training and job development 
  6. Cruelty-free products
    • No animals were involved in the testing or manufacturing process
    • Vegan and made without use of animals (excludes leather, wool, silk or fur)

Around the world on April 22nd, millions of people come together to celebrate the birth of the modern environmental movement. Their aim is to mark the day that gave voice to an emerging public consciousness about the state of our planet. 

Thus, it seemed like the perfect day to launch The Sustainable Edit. We collaborated with 27 of our TDC brands including Kantala, Ethno, Leekoh, Sthri by Selvn, Summer House, House of Lonali and many more. 

The event was highlighted by a very special installation by designer Lonali Rodrigo from House of Lonali. Made using pre-consumer textile waste, the sculpture was inspired by the overwhelming amount of waste produced by the fashion industry. The creative-force behind the installation, Lonali, explained, “One garbage truck of textile waste is being thrown in landfills or incinerated every second. The installation represents that wastage.”

With vibrant colours offset by the fluidity of the fabrics, this upcycled art installation instantly captured everyone’s attention. It accurately showcased the potential of waste in creating something beautiful. “Waste isn’t waste until we waste it. At the House of Lonali, we believe that waste has value,” Lonali said. 

Filled with the most gorgeous sustainable fashion, a thoughtful upcycled installation and enormous support from industry professionals and customers, the much-awaited launch was a night to remember. 

Want to be a part of The Sustainable Edit and join our curated collection of brands? If you’re a brand or you know a brand that follows our principles of sustainability, then reach out to us at marketing@thedesigncollectivestore.com

If you haven’t been able to visit The Edit yet, don’t worry! Shop from the comfort of your home with our online store. 

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