Responsibility Resolution
What's your #ResponsibilityResolution?
It is more important than ever that we live responsibly and sustainably. As a designer and producer, I know that it is my responsibility to make our garments and products as sustainably and eco-friendly as possible. Unfortunately, most brands and companies do not prioritize this, because the right way to do things is (almost) never the cheap way.
That means it is also up to each of us, as consumers, to support brands and companies who do things the responsible way.
This new year, let's remember that our dollar is our voice. When it comes to the goods we buy, let’s support those who share our values in ethical and responsible manufacturing, fair employment, use plastic-free, compostable, and renewable materials, and prioritize sustainable practices.
At Loulette Bride, we have implemented a whole bunch of measures to make sure we are manufacturing and creating as responsibly as possible. So far, here is what we do to stay green:
1. All our shipping is completely plastic-free (or reused plastics from other sources), and our garment bags are compostable.
2. Each of our products are made to order, which means we have no excess inventory. (One of the biggest problems in the fashion industry, among MANY, is the gross overproduction of goods, many of which are incinerated or end up in landfills. Read more here!)
3. We use recycled polyester charmeuse lining, (working up to 100% this year!) and natural fabrics like silk, cotton, and linen. Why? Because Poly is Plastic! (Fun Fact: What else is plastic? “Vegan” leather! Most vegan leather is made of polyurethane, created using highly toxic solvents. Anyway, I digress, but you can read more here.
4. We design and pattern our garments to create as little waste as possible, and donate and recycle all scraps with Fab Scrap!
5. We make everything locally, which eliminates excessive shipping, minimizes carbon impact, ensures that our quality is top notch, and that our labor is always fair and ethical.
6. We support and donate to local non-profits like The Honeybee Conservancy and The LES Girls Club
I mean, that’s pretty damn good. But there is always more to do. So, you ask, what is our 2020 #ResponsibilityResolution?
Starting this year, we are working with One Tree Planted.
For every Loulette Bride gown sold, a tree will be planted in that bride’s name.
We are so thrilled to begin this new partnership, and so grateful to every Loulette Bride who helps us grow, both in business and in the forest!
Now it's your turn!
Here are some ideas for your #ResponsibilityResolution
This year, I will say no to fast fashion. I will support local, small batch designers, and shop vintage, second hand, and sustainable brands! (Hint: here are my faves: Beacon’s Closet, Stella Dallas, Amarcord, Christy Dawn, Everlane)
For my bridesmaids, I will not have them purchase new gowns! I will have them shop second hand bridesmaids (like on Poshmark or Tradesy!), or let them pick their own dress, so they will most definitely wear it again.
I will invest in a reusable coffee mug, and use in Every. Damn. Day.
I will carry around a reusable bag, and refuse plastic bags at stores. One step further: Maybe I will write to my government, local officials, favorite stores, and persuade them to ban plastic bags, too!
I will revamp my household products to be plastic-free! I will go for products that are refillable, recycled, or packaged in paper, metal, and glass. (Hint: my personal favorites include Package Free Shop, Chagrin Valley Soap, Who Gives a Crap, Dropps, Thinx!)
Let’s continue this conversation!
Feel free to respond to us with your #Responsibility Resolution, so we can inspire each other, share ideas, and keep fighting for Mother Earth together.
xo, Marteal