Conscious clothing, be it ethical, sustainable or cruelty-free (the list goes on and on, but you get the idea), has come a long way. In fact, it’s stepped into prime time, thanks to many up and coming labels who’ve all focus on style as much as ethical practices.
Many brands (new and old) are really stepping up their game, offering more ‘aware’ wares that are entirely chic and fashion-forward. Sensible, lust-worthy conscious choices are now more common than they once were, offering a bevy of options for the modern style-savvy consumer out there.
Case in point: new e-tailer and multi-label platform ZERRIN.
Inspired to remould the way in which consumers shop, ZERRIN carries 14 labels which are sustainable, fair trade, organic, au naturel and cruelty-free. Its selectively curated medley of products spans fashion, jewellery and skincare, allowing us to browse through a range of mindful brands conveniently in one space. Whether it’s using environmentally-friendly fabrics, championing fair trade practices or going organic, we think several of these brands deserve a round of applause – and some of our hard earned dollars. Discover some of our favourite ethical fashion brands you can shop right now at ZERRIN.
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The low down: Based in Hong Kong, Aanya offers bohemian designs which are playful and feminine. Sustainable, ethically-sourced materials and artisanal craftsmanship at the heart of its collections. From flowing maxi dresses to chic jumpsuits, each product is ethically sourced and sustainably created in India.
Our pick: This maxi kaftan dress is crafted from a flowing silky fabric and features a plunging neckline and a daring high-leg comfort. For easy-wearing comfort, slip this on with a denim jacket and some platform wedges for a look worthy of a beach goddess.
Aanya Kaftan Dress, $190
The low down: Baliza was first founded by Gema Santander with the inspiration of the breezy lifestyle and exotic cultures and colours of Bali and Ibiza. This socially motivated lifestyle label uses traditional artisan techniques such as block printing, and makes all its products in Jaipur at LADLI – the vocational training arm of NGO India which provides disadvantaged adults and children shelter, education andtraining
Our pick: This off-shoulder number takes the cake with its colourful pom pom embellishments. Pair it with sandals and a woven straw bag for a cute brunch look, or dress it up for a dinner date by throwing on a pair of tassel earrings and a leather jacket.
Baliza dress, $135
The low down: Eden + Elie is a Singapore-based jewellery brand which focuses on hand-weaving techniques to create functional, wearable jewellery. Apart from teaming with local home-based artisans and adults with autism through Enabling Village SIngapore to product their collections, they are also committed to being responsible in sourcing for suppliers who are reputable and ethical. Using miyuki beads (the oldest seed bead in Japan) and other durable, high-quality materials in their craft, this label establishes itself as a notable fair trade jewellery label to look out for.
Our pick: This woven beaded necklace will take you from day to day while effortlessly taking the elegance factor of your ensemble up a notch. It has an adjustable chain which allows you to wear it at different varying lengths to suit your mood.
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The low down: Singaporean label Esse wants to change the systemic issues abundant in the fast fashion industry today. Focusing on quality and being transparent with its customers, the responsible fashion house reinvents wardrobe classics and elevates basics at prices that are fair, not inflated. They work directly with producers and manufacturers through their design studio in Vietnam, where all their clothing is produced. Esse promotes environmental awareness by creating investment pieces that are thoughtfully-made, whilst building a progressive supply chain and business model that encourages longevity, reduces waste and champions transparency.
Our pick: We’ve never seen anything quite like this tie-waist top. before. It’s flirty, sophisticated and polished in a khaki hue and tailored cut. Pair it with a pair of wide leg jeans for a casual touch.
Esse Tie-waist top, $79
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The low down: Founded on the belief that healthy glowing skin should be achievable by everyone, Frank Skincare creates chemical-free products made with skin nourishing properties. The label’s assortment of cleansers, toners, masks and oils are 100% organic and made from non-GMO and paraben-free ingredients sourced all over the world.
Our pick: Frank Skincare’s healing and detoxing Herbal Face Steam is said to be able to clean out pores with its intensive blend of herbal botanicals. The soothing steam purifies pores from deep down, getting rid of dirt, oil and bacteria build-up. Its blend of dried calendula flowers, burdock roots, marshmallow roost, neem leaves and comfrey leaves are meant to treat inflamed skin.
Frank Skincare Face Steam, $38
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The low down: Pyar, pronounced p-yaar which means love and comes from the sanskrit word ‘priya’ meaning “beloved”. Pyar offers a collection of jewellery designed by Singapore designer Nazneen Aziz Samson. Her inspired designs are crafted in 925 sterling silver with 18k gold or rose gold plating by craftspeople in Bali & Pakistan following ethical practices.
Our pick: Here’s Pyar’s signature Heart Necklace crafted in a stunning rose gold sterling silver. Plated with 18-carat gold and an antique oxide combination, this heart necklace features fine contrasting metal details for a sensuously simple aesthetic.
Pyar Signature Heart Necklace, $245
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The low down: Votch is a cruelty-free, all-vegan watch company based in London. Striving to create chic timepieces which inflict no harm to animals and as little to the environment as possible, Votch uses a blend of TPE, polyester and cotton for the watch straps in its New Collection. All the watches comply with ROHS and REACH and the faux leather it uses has certain environmental benefits such as being PFC and flame retardant-free as well as including recycled and renewable content.
Our pick: We love this elegant timepiece that’s crafted in a classy light grey PU vegan leather. Featuring brushed rose gold dials with a Japanese GL20 movement, this sleek must-have will work its way to your everyday ensemble.
Votch The Light Grey and Rose Gold, $220
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The low down: This Singapore-based label creates luxurious basics from eco-friendly, breathable fibres such as bamboo, linen, tencel and eucalyptus. Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource as it grows fast and can be grown on degraded land – it also requires no pesticides or herbicides to thrive, making it one of the most sustainable choices of textiles. Environmentally responsible, Zhai doesn’t compromise on affordability, style and quality.
Our pick: This casual button-up dress is lightweight and simple. Perfect for days when it’s just too much of a hassle to rack your brains on what to wear, this everyday classic looks relaxed and sophisticated.
Zhai Shirt Dress, $99
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