In a world where fashion often equates to waste, a new wave of designers is turning the industry on its head. Embracing the zero waste philosophy, these innovative brands are proving that sustainability and style can go hand in hand. Join us as we explore the rise of zero waste fashion brand Styched and talk to the Founders Soumajit Bhowmik and Durga Dash who are redefining the future of what we wear.
What inspired you to start a zero-waste sustainable fashion brand?
The inspiration to start Styched came from a deep concern for the environmental impact of the fashion industry. The sheer amount of waste and pollution generated by traditional manufacturing processes and the fast fashion cycle is deeply concerning so we decided to create a brand that not only produces stylish and high-quality clothing but also prioritizes the planet. The idea was to combine our passion for fashion with a commitment to sustainability, aiming to set a new standard for how clothes are made and consumed.
Can you share the story behind your brand name?
A blend of “style” and “stitched,” our brand name Styched reflects our commitment to creating stylish, well-made garments defined by meticulous craftsmanship and innovative design. We wanted a name that conveys both fashion and the artisanal aspect of garment creation, emphasizing our dedication to quality and sustainable practices.
How do you define sustainability and zero waste in the context of your brand?
Fashion industry generates 1.92 million tonnes of waste every year. Top reason for this is unsold inventory and unsustainable production processes. At Styched, we have developed a patented production on demand technology, that allows us to work on a Zero inventory, Zero warehouse and Zero waste model.
How do you source your materials, and what criteria do you use to ensure they are sustainable?
We source our materials from suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability. This means using organic cotton, recycled fibres, and innovative materials. Our criteria include the environmental impact of production, the working conditions of those involved, and the overall lifecycle of the materials. We conduct thorough assessments and prioritize transparency in our supply chain to ensure we are making the best choices for the planet and our customers.
What impact do you hope to have on the fashion industry and the environment?
As we have done in India, here in the UAE, we are hoping to set a new standard in the fashion industry and hope to inspire other brands to adopt sustainable practices, leading to a significant reduction in the industry’s overall environmental footprint. Additionally, we aim to raise awareness among consumers about the impact of their purchasing choices, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable consumption.
What are your long-term goals for the brand?
In the long term, we aim to expand our offering across various GCC countries, whilst also growing our product line all the while maintaining our commitment to sustainability and zero waste. We want to be a global leader in sustainable fashion, continuously innovating and improving our practices.
How do you educate your customers about sustainability and zero waste practices?
We believe education is crucial for driving change. Through our website, social media, and marketing materials, we share information about the environmental impact of fashion, the benefits of sustainable practices, and tips for living an eco-friendlier lifestyle. We are always transparent about our own processes and the steps we take to minimize waste, thus encouraging and helping customers make informed decisions.
How do you engage with the local community and promote sustainable fashion practices?
We are excited to be launching in this vibrant city and are looking forward to actively engaging with the local community through workshops, events, and collaborations with other sustainable businesses as well as our retail partners like Amazon and Noon. All our products are sourced and made right here in the U.A.E. We also look forward to strengthening our partnership with Dubai Chamber of Commerce and jointly environmental initiatives that promote awareness about the importance of sustainability in all aspects of life.
What innovations or trends in sustainable fashion are you most excited about?
We are particularly excited about the advancements in fabric technology, such as biodegradable materials and textiles made from recycled materials. Additionally, the rise of digital fashion and virtual fitting rooms promises to reduce waste and returns, offering a more sustainable shopping experience. We will be exploring this phygital world here in the UAE soon!
How do you stay ahead of trends while maintaining your commitment to sustainability?
We closely monitor industry developments and consumer preferences, integrating new ideas that align with our sustainability goals.
What has been the most rewarding part of running a zero waste sustainable fashion brand?
The most rewarding part has been seeing the positive impact of our efforts on both the environment and our customers. Hearing from customers who are excited about our products and appreciate our commitment to sustainability is incredibly fulfilling. Additionally, knowing that we are contributing to a more sustainable future and setting an example for others in the industry makes all the hard work worthwhile.
For more information, please visit: www.styched.ae
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