As the founder of Ôsalé, I am deeply committed to sharing our journey toward sustainability — a journey that extends beyond our brand and aims to inspire positive change within the fashion industry.
And let’s face it, the fashion industry needs to change, as emphasised by recent headlines such as: Boohoo mislabelling clothes made overseas and the global expansion of ultra-fast fashion brand Shein.
But how can we bring that change about when we’re just the small fish? And why should we bother?
International Reducing CO2 Emissions Day is just around the corner and it has me thinking of all Ôsalé’s efforts to have a positive impact on the planet.
I've always firmly believed in the notion that everyone, regardless of their scale or influence, has a role to play. If you are looking for tips to steer away from fast fashion and towards making more sustainable choices, read this article where I share seven tips to making the transition.
In this article, I’ll shed some light on our plans to reduce our CO2 emissions this upcoming year and why it’s so important to us.
Sustainable Fabric Sourcing
Central to our efforts is a dedicated approach to sourcing eco-friendly materials.
Being a small brand allows us to pay attention to every detail of our production process. At Ôsalé, we've chosen materials like Ecovero viscose, polyamide fabric and Jersey Lomellina, that not only make you look good but also feel good about your choices.
From recycled fabrics to organic materials, we believe this one of the key ways to make a difference. Sustainable fabric sourcing is a multifaceted approach that encompasses environmentally friendly raw materials, energy-efficient production processes and a commitment to minimising our overall carbon footprint.
In 2024, we aim to intensify our commitment to eco-friendly fabrics and sustainable resources.
Timeless Design
While most fast fashion brands design items with a short life span – both due to fleeting trends and flimsy production – we design each piece to last.
Ôsalé stands for timeless appeal. It's a conscious choice to embrace pieces that endure, both in style and substance. We want you to invest in pieces that tell stories and become part of your journey.
Timeless design is an important factor in reducing CO2 emissions as it not only results in a reduction of fashion waste, but it also results in a lower demand for fast fashion products.
As we enter the upcoming year, the question guiding each new design is clear: how can we ensure this piece is crafted to last a lifetime? It's a commitment to sustainability that transcends seasons, encouraging a mindset that values lasting elegance over the transient allure of fast fashion.
Keeping Things Local
Another important element of our sustainability strategy is how we approach our supply chain. We believe in supporting local economies and minimising the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation.
With that in mind, we try our best to collaborate with production partners in close proximity to our target markets. This not only reduces shipping-related emissions but also allows us to actively engage with and support local communities.
Our fabrics, trims and hardware are mostly sourced from Italy, Spain and France. And our wonderful workshop team in Venice, Italy, have been with us from day one. This enduring collaboration speaks not only to the quality of their work but also to the bonds formed within a community committed to creating fashion with a conscience.
Adding to that, our photoshoots usually take place on the beautiful sun-drenched beaches of Ibiza, my second home, where the idea of Ôsalé was dreamt up. This intentional choice not only captures the essence of our brand but also minimises the need for extensive travel, working with local photographers, models and makeup artists, reducing the environmental impact associated with our creative endeavours.
Innovative Packaging
Our sustainability efforts extend to the packaging of our products. At Ôsalé, we are continuously exploring innovative, eco-friendly packaging options to minimise waste and reduce our reliance on traditional materials. By rethinking packaging, we aim to contribute to a circular economy and lessen the environmental impact of our products.
Posidonia Protection
One of the funds we donate to on a regular basis is the Posidonia Project by the Ibiza Preservation non-profit. This specific project is dedicated to protecting the Posidonia Oceanica plant.
The Posidonia plant is a highly effective carbon sink capable of absorbing 15 times more CO2 from the atmosphere than the Amazon rainforest.
Why Does Sustainability Matter?
I’m often asked why all of this matters to a small brand like Ôsalé.
In my opinion, the significance of sustainability for small brands like us lies in the unique opportunity to set a new standard, to redefine success beyond mere profit margins. And I believe that by weaving environmental and social responsibility into our DNA, a small brand like us can cultivate a loyal and conscious community that values authenticity and ethical practices.
Sustainability is a whole lot more than a buzzword; it is a pathway towards authenticity, differentiation, and a legacy built on values that we share with our community.