Recently i have been trying to find clothing stores which promote manufacture in Britain. Once a land where production and man power was overflowing, now a place where greed and laziness have taken over.
I have found many companies which are sustainable and ethically minded, Patagonia being one of the most successful in creating the best conditions for their workers and minimising their environmental impact. I think their work is remarkable, however alike food, perhaps clothing should be locally sourced too.
The Few Discovered Brands
'We started the Cock & Bull & Co. boutique with the aim of bringing together a collection of exciting and vibrant menswear brands that adhere to social, environmental and ethical principals and creating a one-stop shop for eco fashions, ethical menswear and accessories'
(taken from cockandbullmenswear.co.uk)
'The Dressmakers Rebellion Limited is an Independent British Clothing label.
We believe that the rich textile and design heritage in Britain should be valued, supported and preserved. In our own way, we do all we can to stand by this ethos... Each piece is designed and made in Britain, using British woven fabrics and suppliers wherever possible.'
(taken from thedressmakersrebellion.co.uk)
'The first street wear brand in the UK that would be 100% made in Britain-We haven't looked back!'
(taken from onefourty.co.uk)
'Love holly is the online destination for simple, stylish and utterly effortless pieces. The collection is easy and laid back for an everyday 'off-duty' look. Luxurious jersey basics and dainty jewellery, designed and made in Britain, with exclusive vintage pieces sourced from around the world delivered to your door.'
(taken from loveholly.co.uk)
Summary
After finding these few stores it made me think about the market they are aiming. The companies hold a youthful, contemporary image, and (except for Cock & Bull) the clothing is very simple 'streetwear' with nothing too out of the ordinary in design. This may be due to the cost of the materials and labour, efficiency in production will therefore have to be increased to be able to sell at an affordable price. Cock & Bull are different, they have a bespoke section and each design is unique.
Here is a list of websites for further reading;
- http://www.nordicfashionassociation.com/
- http://www.waronwant.org/overseas-work/sweatshops-and-plantations
- http://www.fashionrevolution.org/about/mission/
- http://www.ethicalfashionforum.com/
