Did you know that the fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries today and that it employs a significant number of child labourers? It is responsible for 10% of all human carbon emissions, drying out water sources, polluting water bodies, and sending large amounts of microplastics into the ocean. This is in addition to dumping over 85% of textile waste each year. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) also estimates that 17 crore children are engaged in the fashion industry to fulfil consumer demand.
While the fashion industry undoubtedly comes off as unethical and wasteful, not every brand follows this rule book. Many responsible fashion brands are not only creating amazing fashion collections, but they are also making a genuine effort to do so responsibly and sustainably. Here is a list of 7 brands that are setting an example by producing responsible, sustainable, and gorgeous fashion:
Dressfolk
Founded by Nitin Mehrotra in 2017, Dressfolk is based in Delhi. They draw inspiration from all across India. Nitin felt the need to draw from and utilise India’s rich culture and heritage of indigenous resources and craft traditions. Dressfolk was born, driven by the simple ethos of breaking the monotonous, uninspired chain of design in fashion. They aim to convert Indian crafts into contemporary clothing for women that is not only comfortable but also in sync with current fashion trends.
Dressfolk incorporates sustainable methods in the production of their garments, only using eco-friendly materials and elements in their manufacturing process. To preserve the authenticity of a particular craft, the brand also engages with its native region in a bid to ensure that production takes place in direct consultation with experienced artisans.