In a bid to minimise the harm that mass-produced fashion inflicts upon the earth, reducing toxic greenhouse gas emissions a.k.a ‘carbon footprints’ is just one facet that’s riding high on the agenda for conscientious brands whose goal is to shift more towards sustainable practices. London-based jerseywear and one-to-watch swim brand Elliss is leading by a very good example.

Sharing a building with its manufacturers, Elliss Solomon’s namesake label is involved at every stage of production; things couldn’t be kept more local if they tried! And, through working with this approach, runs of organic cotton, hemp and bamboo, and recycled polyester lightweight garments – that are as kind to the skin as they are to the environment – are produced in limited batches so that each piece feels personal to its wearer. 

Eager to learn more about what made Elliss determined to do things differently, Because Magazine spoke to the young designer for some first-hand perspective. 

When did sustainable fashion become a key focus for you?
It was during my final year at Central Saint Martins, when I had to create an entire collection of my own, that I realised I wanted to do it with the environment in mind. It was a gradual process, but I realised then that this was something that I really cared about.



Sharing a building with your manufacturers means that you can, hand on heart, know exactly where your product originates. Are these relationships something you’re looking to continue?
Definitely! This will always be important to me wherever I’m manufacturing. It’s essential that brands are honest with their customers and open about the production process. The consumer needs to be able to make informed choices by understanding how their clothes were made, and why there is a certain price tag – whether it's super cheap or expensive. There is always a cost for cheap fashion.

Your aesthetic, quite clearly, celebrates diversity... Who are the women that inspire you and your brand?
My friends and family inspire me the most, but I meet interesting individuals all the time via the brand. There are so many special women that you can’t find through agencies, because they aren’t sample size… In my opinion, sample size is boring!



Why do you do what you do?
I like making a difference in the way that people see clothes. I’d love for consumers to understand the process behind a garment, while still enjoying the fun and creativity of the aesthetic itself.

Click here to choose your clothing consciously, safe in the knowledge of its entire transparent history.

In case you missed it, read lawyer-turned-designer, Catherine Quin, discuss her latest capsule collection with Women for Women International.