Sustainability

Creating a company that focuses on sustainability is of highest importance to me. Here are the steps I take towards making this business as sustainable as I can:

* All items are made from natural materials like hemp, bamboo, organic cotton, merino wool and Tencel™. These fibres are naturally biodegradable. Since they are natural fibres they do not shed microplastics when washed.

* Striving to be plastic free, buttons used on my garments are made of wood or natural corozo which are both naturally biodegradable (corozo - aka vegetable ivory - was what most buttons were made from before the invention plastic). I avoid zippers and elastics in my designs for this reason. If I use a zipper or elastic I disclose that so you can make an informed decision when purchasing.

* While I love pretty packaging I opt for a "less is more" approach so you have little to recycle once you take my product home! A simple thank-you note comes with your order, made from scrap paper (old calendar or greeting card, art that I scrapped, old pattern pieces). I do not use tissue paper. Packing materials are repurposed - opting to use existing packaging rather than new. For shipped order I used previously used poly mailers. For pick-up orders I use previously used paper bags. 

* I try to make clothing that can be worn multi-season. Wear my items layered over basics you already own in colder weather or on their own in warmer weather.

* Designs are timeless and meant to be worn for year to come therefore I don't design in "seasons" or in "collections". I also avoid trends for this reason. 

* Garments are produced as they are ordered. This ensures I do not make excess inventory, making only what is needed, reducing garment waste.

* Designs are boxy and often have dropped shoulders. This creates less fabric waste when cutting garments. It also allows for weight fluctuations our bodies, so you can gain or loose a bit of weight and still feel comfortable. It also makes it a bit easier when ordering clothes online (less wondering if arms or shoulder will be tight). 

* Fabric scraps are saved for future projects, or donated to other makers to use in their projects.

* Once you're done with my clothes shoot me an email and I'll buy it back from you to sell to someone else! Let's keep clothes living on as long as we can. 

* Got a hole or a ripped seam? I'll repair it free of charge. Contact me at info@beithe.ca for assistance when you need it.

 

Here are some suggestions for you to reduce waste once you take my garments home:

* The cool thing about Tencel™ is that it's naturally anti-microbial, so you need to wash it less. Just air it out and it freshens right up.

* Wash your clothes only when needed, not each time you wear them.

* Wash clothing inside out, in cold water and lay flat to dry. This helps reduce energy and keeps the fibres from wearing out. Your energy bills will be lower and your clothing will last longer. Win win.

* Don't be scared of white linen. Linen is naturally stain resistant, so if you're like me and spill your coffee the second you put your white top on, don't fret. It will wash out on it's own, without harsh stain removers.

* Remember, the most sustainable thing in your closet is what you already own. 

* When you do purchase new, "Buy less, choose well, make it last." (Vivienne Westwood).

If you have additional suggestion for sustainability efforts I'd love to hear! Contact me at info@beithe.ca