As a member of the fashion industry, we acknowledge the impact our industry has on the planet and the need for us all to reduce environmental harm. We have a commitment to improving our overall impact in a realistic and meaningful way. As a smaller business in our industry, we take realistic steps to support improved sustainability through fabric sourcing, production processes, distribution methods and encourage circular fashion.
We have formalised our commitment to sustainability through the development of some key sustainability goals.
1. Designing for Longevity
We design with the principle that we want our garments to be long lasting and used more than once. Each piece is carefully draped with wearability and longevity in mind. We provide care instructions and design for repair and adjustability.
2. Fabric Choices
We are always looking to evolve our fabric and materials and have a commitment to include 30% sustainable fabric and materials in the next 3 years.
3. Ensuring all packaging is recyclable, reuseable or compostable
Currently, we package all our items from our suppliers to our warehouse in Industrially Compostable Polybags. These are made from 100% biodegradable certified plant-based material. Once an order is placed, garments are secured in satchels made from 80% recycled materials. These materials are also 100% recyclable.
The labels that you can see on our garments from the ‘Significant Other’ branded labels on the collar, through to the garment size and wash care instruction labels are now made from recycled polyester.
4. Fabric Recycling
We’re working with the Upparel Recycling Project to ensure all our unused textile scraps do not go to landfill. Upparel can then use these by passing on to other textile companies and/or giving new life to unwanted textiles by way of creating socks and children’s flip sofas.
5. Transparency
We are working with our suppliers to ensure full transparency on our supply chain and work with suppliers to help them improve their sustainability credentials by sharing advice and supporting with sustainable fabric sourcing options.
6. Influence and Continual Improvements
We are committed to playing a leading role in sustainability in the industry. In 2022 we sponsored and were involved in the national innovation games hosted by the Australian Government to look at sustainability in the industry. Most recently we have participated in the South Australian fashion industry’s circular economy project to look at ways we can continue to improve how we work and make ourselves a more sustainable organisation.
Our garments are designed to live a long wardrobe life, but even the most robust fabrics may not be able to survive an accidental wine stain or a wayward heel rip. These are the clothing signatures of a life well lived, and we want that for our pieces.
For help with garment care or repairs, our customer experience team are here to help with any advice you may need to lengthen the wardrobe-life of your piece. They can be reached at any time on enquiries@shopsignificant.com.
