Tag Archive for: Fashion

Tips for gender-neutral fashion. Are you trying to achieve a gender-neutral style? Luckily, it’s not that hard. If you have no clue how to do it, we can help you. Gender-neutral or androgynous outfitting have become very popular these days. From runways to street style, it’s everywhere, and that is actually kind of cool. Finally, right? Now, you can dress the way you want without being labelled.

It’s not just a trend. It has become a steadfast wardrobe movement, and at Studio Eva Dekker, we couldn’t be happier about it. Why? Because gender-specific clothing significantly limits how certain clothes and garments can be worn and combined. Also, women’s clothing puts a lot of attention on the body, which isn’t always necessary. However, if that’s something you like – that’s amazing too! No judging here.

But gender-neutral fashion focuses on the clothes instead of what’s underneath them. This puts more thought into the actual design, making every piece feel fresh, effortless and more original than ever.

So, let’s get to know the tips on how to achieve a gender-neutral style. Shall we start?

Tip #1: Start with the shoes and work your way up

Choose a pair that is comfortable and versatile. For example, flats are especially good for summer. However, you can also add a pair of sneakers or boots to your wardrobe for more variety. Most people won’t even notice that you’re wearing flats. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles.

Another way to achieve a more gender-neutral look is to pair a dress or skirt with ankle boots instead of heels. It’s a simple change, but it can make your outfit more practical and stylish.

Ankle boots are also available in a variety of styles. So don’t worry, you’re sure to find a pair that suits your taste.

Tip #2: Layering

Gender-neutral wardrobes are all about layering. It is the key to creating this type of capsule wardrobe. In this way, you are able to combine different pieces of clothing to create unique and versatile looks. For instance, you could wear a trench coat over a blazer and a shirt. You can even wear a flannel shirt over a denim jacket. Most importantly, you don’t have to be afraid to experiment with different styles, patterns and textures. Layering can be fun.

Layering means wearing multiple pieces of clothing that can be easily added or removed as needed. Add whatever you want or need! 

Here are some tips for layering in gender-neutral clothes:

• Start with the thinnest layer and work your way up to the thickest. This will not only help you look better but also help you stay comfortable and avoid getting too hot in the days of summer.
• Never fear to experiment with different combinations. Gender-neutral fashion has no rules. What’s important is that you wear clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable.

Tip #3: Accessories

This style is all about the little things. Add some flair to your outfit with the accessories you want, like a layering necklace, a scarf or any other eye-catching accessory.

If you feel like it, go crazy with colour. If you don’t feel comfortable enough to do that, you can try adding leather, such as belts and straps.

For example, you could add a gender-neutral statement necklace to add a touch of colour to your look. For a touch of edge, add a leather jacket.

Finally, mix and match gender-neutral printed scarves with your outfits. Remember that this is all about you, so have fun, try different styles and find the one that makes you feel best.

Tip #4: Take risks

You can take risks, but remember, don’t overdo it. Gender-neutral fashion is all about being yourself and expressing your personality.

Don’t be afraid to try different styles, as we mentioned above.

Try new things and have fun, even if that means mixing two different patterns. 

With time, you’ll know what suits you best and what you like the most.

Expressing yourself will get easy, and you will find a way to explore and expand your creativity through gender-neutral fashion.

Tip #5: Wear dark colours with bright colours

Don’t be afraid to mix dark and bright colours in your gender-neutral wardrobe. It is a great way to add interest and creativity to your looks. It can also be a nice path to express your personality to the fullest.

For example, consider combining a citron-colored top with black or grey pants. You could even add a bright scarf or a hat for a darker outfit. Some other advice we can add are:

• Start with a dark base. It’ll help you from getting your outfit too overwhelming.
• Add a pop of colour with a bright accessory. It is a simple way to add interest to your look without going overboard.
• If you’re feeling comfortable enough, try mixing two bright colours. Just be sure they complement each other.
• Don’t forget to accessorise. We’ve mentioned this before. Accessories are an excellent way to elevate your outfit and make it look more fun.

Tip #6: Mix up masculine and feminine elements

Gender-neutral fashion is all about mixing these two elements together. While this may seem counterintuitive, it can be a great way to create unique looks. Think about pairing baggy jeans with a floral blouse or a button-up shirt. However, you must remember that when mixing feminine and masculine elements together, it’s good to keep balance in mind. 

Gender-neutral fashion is for everyone. It is meant for you to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin. What you wear can match your mood or even the weather since you can do as you please. There are no labels and no rules. You do you. Bring your feminine and masculine energy together! Embrace them, and you’ll feel greater than ever.

How do you like these tips? You can buy the best gender-neutral clothing at Studio Eva Dekker. See you on the next blog.

How to make fast fashion sustainable? Fast fashion is a fast-growing industry that produces fashionable and cheap clothing. Short lead times, low prices and high turnover characterise it. Some fast fashion brands such as Zara, H&M and Forever 21 can offer new clothing styles at a fraction of the cost of traditional brands. Why? Because they often use cheap labour and materials, and most produce in countries with labour and environmental laws. 

In case you didn’t know, the environmental impact of fast fashion is more significant than you think. This industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions. It is also the second-largest consumer of water. Its social impact is also of concern. Workers must perform their work in unsafe conditions; as we said, they receive low wages.

In addition, fast fashion can contribute to body image issues, as it promotes a culture of disposability and encourages most people to buy new clothes constantly.

But how can we make it sustainable? Is it possible? In this post, we will tell you how to make fast fashion sustainable.

Is it possible to make fast fashion sustainable?

Despite the challenges, there are many ways to make fast fashion sustainable. Here are a few ideas:

Design for longevity

Fast fashion brands often focus on designing clothes that are made to last for a very short period of time.

This leads to a lot of waste, as people quickly discard clothes they no longer like or are not trendy anymore.

The clothes end up in landfills, which have one of the most damaging environmental effects.

That’s why fast fashion brands should try to create clothes that are made to last.

To do that, they must use high-quality materials and construction techniques.

Use sustainable materials

Most fast fashion brands use harmful materials to create their clothes, such as synthetic fabrics that release microplastics when washed.

That’s why they drift into oceans or rivers. That’s why they must use sustainable materials. Some of them may be made from organic cotton, recycled polyester or bamboo.

Using some of these materials will make the clothing more sustainable and allow fast fashion to last longer.

Reduce water use

The fashion industry is a major water consumer. Don’t believe us? Think about it: the production of a single cotton T-shirt can require at least 2,700 gallons of water. That’s a lot. How can fast fashion reduce their water use? By using less water-intensive materials, such as recycled polyester. In addition, they can improve their manufacturing processes.

Empower workers

Fast fashion workers are paid a very low wage.

To empower them all, they should pay a fair compensation for their work and give them appropriate working conditions.

They should also be transparent about their supply chains so that consumers can know where their clothes are made and how.

Promote reuse and recycling

Fast fashion brands should encourage consumers to reuse and recycle their old clothes.

This can be done by offering take-back programs or partnering with organisations that collect and recycle clothes.

Educate consumers

Consumers need to know how their clothes are made and under what conditions workers do their jobs.

They also deserve to know what the environmental cost is.

That is why all fast fashion brands need to raise consumer awareness of fast fashion’s social and environmental impact.

This can be done through their marketing strategies or materials, website or social media platforms.

While it is true that making fast fashion sustainable is a very complex challenge, it is certainly worth trying for the benefit of the planet and our society. Fast fashion can become sustainable by taking small steps, such as improving workers’ lives and reducing environmental impact.

What can YOU do?

You may feel powerless when it comes to stopping fast fashion’s negative impact on the environment. But don’t worry, there are some things you can do to reduce it.

First of all, buy less. This is the best way to reduce your impact on the fashion industry. Instead of buying new clothes all the time, try to repair or give a new purpose to the clothes you already have. Second, buy sustainable brands. Believe it or not, many brands are committed to ethical and environmental practices. You can support them and additionally create a new style for you using their clothes.

When you buy from sustainable brands, you can be sure that the clothing is made with better materials. Besides, in a way that has less impact on the planet.

In addition, you can also rent clothes. Several companies offer clothing rental services. It’s a great way to try new and trendy clothes if you don’t want to buy them since you can always return them.

Ultimately, you could also donate your clothes. If you have anything you no longer wear or like, you can donate it to a local charity. This way, you will help keep the clothes out of landfills and give them a new life!

Sustainable clothing brands

If you’re not sure where to get sustainable fashion, here are a few ideas of the brands that sell clothes without a negative impact on the planet:

• Patagonia: It is a well-known brand for its commitment to the environment and making sustainable fashion possible for years. They use recycled materials in many of their products and strongly focus on environmental responsibility.
• Everlane: It is a direct-to-consumer brand known for its transparency and ethical practices. They pay their workers a fair wage and are committed to using sustainable materials.
• Tentree: They use organic cotton and other sustainable materials. In addition, they are committed to ethical manufacturing. And the most amazing thing is that they plant 10 trees for every item of clothing you buy!

Are you ready to make fast fashion sustainable?

Digital Product Passports: Transforming Transparency in Sustainable Fashion. Digital Product Passports (DPPs) are a concept that was introduced by the EU in 2022 by focusing on transforming transparency in sustainable products, including the fashion industry. With every product you buy, a DPP will provide the buyer with comprehensive information about its lifecycle, from origin to disposal.

Technology like this could bridge the gap between consumers and detailed information about products we would never see, allowing transparent and traceable sustainability credentials.

With The European Green Deal’s objectives for a circular economy (which includes sustainability and transparency in the fashion industry), DPPs will be a perfect tool to encourage responsible consumption, minimise waste generation, maximise resource efficiency, and promote the reuse and recycling of products.

The fashion industry is known for its complex and often opaque supply chains. In short, it’s difficult for consumers to understand the negative impacts of the products they buy on the environment, especially for fast fashion brands. With a DPP, we can bridge the gap between information and ultimately transparentise supply chain information, offering a comprehensive overview of the lifecycle of a garment, detailing materials used, methods, energy consumption, waste consumption, transportation and more!

To visualise how DPPs would work in practice, you can watch this video demonstration that showcases their potential benefits and functionalities.

To summarise, the information can be accessed through a QR code or scannable tag and is entirely free of charge.

DPPs aim to transform transparent sustainably by:

• Including product information – They would offer essential details about the brand, product name, description, and relevant identifiers such as barcode or serial numbers. Essentially enabling consumers to access the basics the product has to offer easily.

• Providing supply chain visibility – The DPP offers transparency by detailing the composition, origin and sources of the raw materials used to produce the products. Furthermore, they even include the names, locations and contact details of the manufacturer(s) involved in its production. This fosters accountability and encourages sustainable practices throughout the production process.

• Disclosing the environmental impact – By including the product’s crucial information about the product’s ecological footprint, energy consumption, water usage and even the toxic substances and components used during manufacturing and transport, a DPP could influence the choices of consumers based on a product’s sustainability performance.

• Disclosing social impact and certifications – With DPPs providing insights into the social impact of a product, customers are more aware of the labour conditions, wages and standard social compliances. By including certificates proving such standards, customers are more incentivised to support brands prioritising fair and ethical practices.

• Guiding the disposal and recycling of the product – A DPP would provide information about the recommended end-of-life management options for a product, focusing on minimising waste and promoting responsible disposal and recycling practices. This could include outlining available recycling methods, recommending nearby facilities and providing detailed instructions on how to prepare their garments for recycling. They could also enable consumers to track and measure their own personal recycling efforts!

Digital product passports are expected to be mandatory by 2026, meaning that so far, it’s making progress, but it may be a much less developed version for the fashion industry. By using Blockchain technology (digital ledgers formed with blocks of information and linked together), DPPs can enhance credibility and transparency through the supply chain and accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry. For example, the Stella McCartney brand has partnered with NATIVA, which produces 100% traceable, regeneratively farmed Australian wool. By using Blockchain technology, NATIVA follows the journey of their wool, from farm to sheep, to the clothes on your back, with the guarantee of a traceable supply chain.

Although Blockchain technology isn’t a remedy for all sustainability challenges in the fashion industry, it is a valuable tool in transforming a wasteful sector into a more transparent and ethical one. 

The benefits also include:

• Counterfeit prevention – A significant issue in the fashion industry (a supposed 20% of fashion products advertised on Instagram alone are fake), counterfeiting contributes to an abundance of unethical practices and environmental damage. However, with the use of Blockchains, consumers will be able to identify unique digital identities for products and verify their legitimacy.

• Stakeholder collaboration – Every industry has an ecosystem, and collaboration between brands, suppliers, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers needs to be connected. Blockchains enable information sharing across a broad range of stakeholders on a single digital platform, allowing collective efforts towards sustainable fashion and addressing industry challenges and solutions.

By providing consumers with detailed information on the powers of transparency in a wasteful industry, Digital Product Passports will ultimately empower individuals to make more informed, sustainable choices and create a more sustainable future for the fashion industry.

For more information on sustainable fashion, check out our Journal!

Wear what you love. Cherish it, and it lasts a long time!

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5 Growing Sustainable Shipping Practices in the Fashion Industry. When we think about the journey of our clothes, it simply isn’t a case of a garment being made in one place and delivered to another.

In the fast fashion market, a journey of a single garment usually starts in more developed countries where the raw material is sourced (Italy being number 2 in exporting fabrics like silk, linen and wool, with the US following suit). It is then shipped to less developed countries to be spun, sent to another to be manufactured, washed and dyed, and then shipped back to more developed countries to be sold. With off-shore manufacturing for brands across the globe, the transport of a finished garment is usually shipped across continents, meaning it’s the longest journey in the supply chain.

Shipping alone contributes to 3.5% to 4% of all climate change emissions, and that’s usually the final stage of your desired garments journey. Although much better than air freight (contributing to 10 times more CO2 than ships), it still isn’t perfect. In the US, around 2009, studies found that one cargo ship emits as much pollution as 50 million cars, leading to goals to reduce emissions worldwide.

A great solution to reduce transport emissions would be buying locally sourced and manufactured garments, but that can only sometimes be the case. Therefore, the fashion industry has been finding innovative and impactful ways to ship their garments to minimise environmental impact; these include:

1. Use of eco-friendly packaging materials

Between 2000 and 2019, packaging contributed to 40% of plastic waste, and the production, transportation and efforts to dispose of the packaging itself can be energy-intensive and release massive amounts of greenhouse gasses.

Amazingly, brands like ASOS and ZARA have introduced greener alternatives for packaging. With a target to contribute zero waste to landfills by 2025, Zara has been using recycled cardboard boxes, reusing bags and hangers.

Using paper and cardboard packaging, we are looking at a recyclable material that can be reproduced 5 to 7 times! Even luxury brand Calvin Klein has ensured that 74% of their packaging is recyclable since PVH (Owners of Calvin Klein) have committed to having 100% sustainable packaging by 2025. 

2. Use of low-emission transportation

By utilising hybrid or electric vehicles for shipping goods, brands are taking a big chunk out of their transportation emissions as well as encouraging their logistics partners to invest in cleaner and more fuel-efficient transportation methods, ultimately reducing carbon emissions.

A great example of low-emission delivery for the fashion industry is the recent collaboration with Swedish electric motorcycle manufacturer CAKE and electric truck company Volta Trucks to offer the H&M Group a sustainable delivery solution in Paris. Planned to begin this year, H&M will use electric trucks and electric two-wheelers to deliver orders directly from their warehouses to customers’ doors. The initiative, designed for urban logistics, aims to minimise the environmental impact on the city.

3. Consolidating shipping and optimisation 

The goal here is to reduce fuel consumption and the number of total trips using consolidated shipments and optimised routes.

This practice helps maximise transportation vehicles’ capacity, resulting in lower carbon emissions per product shipped.

In 2021, 83.6% of Stella McCartney’s carbon impact was through transport alone. That’s transporting goods by road, rail and air.

To minimise emissions, unique management systems are being planned. These involve energy-efficient routes, better product manufacturing times to reduce the need for air transport and reducing the number of overall shipments by improved consolidation. 

4. Shared Logistics 

Collaborative efforts between multiple brands or retailers allow for shared logistics, which can significantly reduce the number of vehicles on the road.

Shared warehouses, distribution centres, and transport networks enable more efficient and sustainable shipping practices.

Brand collaboration has many benefits, from extended customer reach, increased brand visibility and awareness, cross-promotions, and competitive advantage. 

The beauty of brand collaborations is the sustainability factor, and brands like Patagonia have teamed with REI and are a leading example of transparency with their supply chain and goals on sustainability.

As well as this, collaboration with other brands with similar attitudes towards sustainability means consolidated shipments, ultimately reducing the number of trucks on the road.

5. Circular logistics

With reverse and circular logistics, sustainability doesn’t end when the product is delivered. By incorporating reverse logistics in sustainable shipping practices, brands facilitate product returns, repairs and recycling to minimise waste and reduce the need for new product manufacturing and shipping.

Levi’s SeconHand program is an excellent example of reverse and circular logistics. The recycling program allows customers to bring their old jeans to participating stores and receive a discount on a new pair. Although not a fully emission-free option, it ultimately saves water and carbon that is used to create a new team and ship newer products. 

Sadly, it’s only available in the US, but many other brands are doing similar programmes worldwide.

The future is looking bright for the fashion industry, but we’re not out of the woods yet. An upward trend of sustainable shipping practices in the fashion industry demonstrates a commitment to reducing environmental impact. By adopting transparent supply chains, promoting resource efficiency and mitigating carbon emissions in their shipping practices, fashion brands are doing their part to contribute to a more sustainable future. 

We, as consumers, on the other hand, can do our part by being environmentally conscious when choosing where we select our garments. Remember, we have the power to make sustainable choices.

Wear what you love. Cherish it, and it lasts a long time!

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Travelling with a Capsule Wardrobe: Sustainable Style on the Go. We’ve all been there, arriving at the airport check-in, dragging that oversized suitcase and praying it’s below the weight limit. You might have overpacked and now dread the embarrassment of holding up the queue of eager travellers as you at least try to distribute your luggage or end up wearing two winter coats and a pair of mittens in a cramped aeroplane. 

Well, here is how to avoid clothing overload for your next travelling adventure. 

A capsule wardrobe is a collection of items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits, meaning that clothes are selected to be worn interchangeably, ultimately reducing the need for a large wardrobe of garments and promoting a more sustainable approach to fashion. 

Plan

Before your trip, take some time to plan your outfits and create a capsule wardrobe. 

Think of practicality; where are you going? Is it hot? Is it rainy? Do you plan on sightseeing in sub-zero temperatures?

Choose timeless and versatile pieces that can be easily combined to create different looks and stick to a colour palette that can be easily mixed and matched, such as neutrals like black, white, grey, and beige.

The goal is to pack light and avoid overpacking.

Be mindful of the number of items you bring and resist the urge to throw in extra pieces “just in case.” Stick to your pre-planned wardrobe, and remember that you can always do laundry during your trip if needed.

Stick to the essentials

Focus on packing essential items that can be styled in various ways. For example,

If you are heading to the heat, pack versatile basics like a linen shirt, a black dress, a pair of shorts, and a light blazer. 

If you are flying into the frost, then think about packing a good pair of jeans, a wool sweater and a windproof jacket.

These pieces can be dressed up or down and combined with different accessories to create different outfits.

Quality Over Quantity

Unisex Caftan Mille Fleurs by STUDIO EVA D.

Investing in high-quality, durable clothing items that will last longer is important when travelling with a capsule wardrobe.

Choose well-made garments that are made from sustainable materials such as organic cotton, linen, hemp, or recycled fabrics.

Prioritise ethical and sustainable brands that align with your values and are made for the environment and climate you intend to visit.

STUDIO EVA D’s Unisex Caftan Mille Fleurs is perfect for those hot climates and great for layering on those brisk nights.

Made with flexible cotton fabric, it is a perfect, versatile item to add to your portable, sustainable capsule wardrobe.

Opt for multifunctional pieces

Choose clothing items that serve multiple purposes. Travelling for business or a formal occasion?

Then think about packing a tailored blouse made from a sustainable material like Tercel or organic silk and pair it with natural-coloured trousers, a skirt and layer with a blazer or structured jacket.

Considering multifunctional outfits when travelling with a capsule wardrobe is an excellent way to make the most of your clothing whilst minimising your environmental impact.

For more tips on layering, check out our blog ‘How to Master the Art of Layering for Year-Round Style’ 

Pack Strategically

With a capsule wardrobe, the goal is to pack light and avoid overpacking. Avoid packing multiple items that serve the same purpose or have a similar style. Versatile pieces can fulfil an array of functions, ultimately reducing unnecessary bulk in your luggage. The organisation of your items can not only reduce the chances of overpacking but can help you locate specific items and keep your luggage tidy throughout your trip.

Travelling with a capsule wardrobe reduces your environmental impact and simplifies your travel experience. It lets you focus on enjoying your trip rather than stressing about what to wear. Sustainable style on the go is all about conscious choices and making the most of the clothing items you have.

It’s important to also bear in mind that luggage contributes to the weight of a plane, ultimately increasing the plane’s fuel consumption. So, by travelling with a capsule wardrobe, you are not only doing yourself a favour with minimalist style on the go but also creating a sustainable method of travel!

Wear what you love. Cherish it, and it lasts a long time.

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