sustainable fashion

a while ago, at art:24, I had the pleasure of experiencing Alabama Chanin's line up close & personal, flip through swatch books, and I also had the chance to meet Natalie & grab a copy of her book- Alabama Stitch Book.

Previously, I had likened my reverse applique fabric to Project Alabama. After researching better, reading the book, and speaking with Natalie- the only true connect is the actual sewing process of reverse applique. All of Alabama Chanin is made locally to sustain local economy - the cotton is grown in TX, combed and spun in SC, dyed in NC, etc, etc...

My fashion and my thoughts on the business have changed significantly since I started Erin Taylor Designs....originally I was buying retail fabrics, cutting and sewing like crazy. Creating a small line of garments, sizing, and cutting & sewing...

Then, Ono showed me the way of the recyclers + upcyclers. I have slowly been using recycled textiles in my lines- be it old sofa fabric which turns into a clutch; old wool skirts turn into scarves; old jersey into tops or dresses.

Natalie is a force with regard to the sustainable fashion - because it's not just fashion - it's a lifestyle - minimal to zero waste; make to order [which makes so much more sense]; and practical, comfortable, enduring fashion which will last your lifetime and the lifetime of your daughter...oh, if I had the money - I spied a really great 20's silhouette dress which was beautifully sewn with reverse applique, and heavy beading at the bottom. freaking gorgeous.

I am trying to slow down, and be more conscious of sustainability across the board - fashion, food, life....thoughts?

for more on Natalie, read an interview between BurdaStyle & her - here + here.