Supporting people & the planet

In support of Earth Day and Fashion Revolution Week

From the rise in popularity of reusables to legislation banning single use plastics, sustainability is becoming increasingly important across the globe. It makes sense that in line with this shift in values, consumers are demanding a more sustainable fashion system.

So what is sustainable fashion? British vogue states that sustainable fashion is an umbrella term for garments that are created and consumed in a way that protects both the environment and the people involved in producing those garments. There are many factors that play into this, from reducing emissions, pollution and waste, supporting biodiversity, choosing sustainable fibres and ensuring that garment workers are paid a fair wage.

Sustainability doesn’t stop once a garment is created either, a garments care (think washing correctly) and longevity (think clothes swaps and donating) all come into the sustainability matrix as well.

What are we doing at Girl and the Sun HQ?

When purchasing a piece from us, we want you to feel confident that you are supporting a more sustainable and ethical fashion system. We are constantly trying to reduce our impact and have made this a focus for 2021.  

Materials and packaging

We are committed to limiting our social and environmental impacts by choosing lower impact materials in our garments and order packaging. Your online orders are also shipped in compostable postage satchels, wrapped in eco-friendly recycled tissue paper and all Girl and the Sun marketing materials are printed on Envirocare 100% recycled paper stock.

Seasonless styles

One of the best ways to shop sustainably is to purchase quality items that you know you will love for years to come. Our styles are designed to carry you from season to season without the need to update your wardrobe every few months. Designing in a way that is not steered by trends reduces the amount of waste and pollution created by the fashion industry and means forever favourites for you!

Fair Wage and Working conditions

At Girl and the Sun, we value people over growth and profit. We have worked with the same teams for many years and maintain close working relationships with all of our staff. We are proud to say that all of our production complies with ethical standards, wage standards and workplace health and safety standards.

In alignment with the 2021 Fashion Revolution Week theme, we have chosen to amplify the voices of our amazing production team in China to hear what they have to say about their role within our production chain. Pictured below is Shallen, who is part of the team who manage our sampling process, cutting, sewing and finishing all the beautiful garments we sell.

Aftercare and a second life

We know how tempting it can be to throw everything in the washing machine together… we’re guilty too. However, reading and following the care instructions on a garments label diligently is crucial when it comes to lowering the environmental footprint of your garment. This is because it extends the life of a garment and reduces the amount of clothing ending up in landfill. If you want to seriously level up your sustainability game investing in a microplastics filter such as a Guppyfriend washing bag or Cora Ball is incredibly beneficial – these items catch the microplastics released when washing your clothes.

When it comes time to say goodbye to a garment don’t throw it away! Gift it to a friend, attend a clothes swap, sell it online or donate to an op shop. If an item is unwearable and unable to be repaired look into textile recycling schemes where possible.

We hope this gave you a little insight into our approach to sustainability, we are always looking for ways to improve and are eager to adopt new and more sustainable methods as we grow.