Sustainable travel through Asia
Two French ladies in pursuit of ethical fashion
- Meet Lea and Mathilde
Two young French girls, determined to change the fashion industry for the better. Starting the project ‘
Greenisthenewblack’ with the goal to make fashion professionals aware of the sustainable alternatives to fast fashion they decided to start their sustainable travels in the world’s clothing production epicentre – Asia. They are currently on their trip meeting 20 inspiring entrepreneurs that offer them a glimpse into the ethical fashion world in Asia. In a small chat they shared some of their experiences with us and tell us what the future holds in stock for them.
- What where you looking for when selecting entrepreneurs to meet?
We wanted to meet entrepreneurs who are ethical in both, a social and environmental way. On one hand we focused on entrepreneurs that are zero waste, find innovative techniques to produce in a sustainable way or use natural materials and dyes as Asia is very rich in traditional raw materials like silk & cotton. On the other hand we were looking for entrepreneurs who resolve social problems through preserving a cultural craft or heritage or giving market access to communities that are being left out. Most of the people we meet have the promotion of traditional crafts and handmade production in their countries at heart. We want entrepreneurs who are part of the slow fashion movement and who believe that sustainable fashion is undeniably the future.
- What was the most inspiring moment?
The most inspiring moment so far was when we met Lukkaew, the founder of Folk Charm, a brand promoting Thai crafts by producing fashion made from organic cotton, coloured with natural dyes. Lukkaew introduced us to Thaï traditions such as hand-spinning, hand-weaving and natural dying with plants and leaves for brown, red, orange colors or indigo. We were so impressed by the fact that she had her background neither in business nor in fashion. She is only driven by her passion for craft and will to help those communities. We were also taken by her very peaceful studio just as you imagine it in Asian countries. We didn’t expect to meet an entrepreneur that was so complete in her engagement and mission: there is nothing left to chance, everything is well thought through. Hearing her talk about the work she is doing for the craftswomen was a lesson of humility.
- If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Is it too obvious to say the fashion industry?
We would like that people realize the beauty and complexity of nature and to limit the damages we are causing by keeping in mind the small actions that can be done: “buying less but better” is one of them.
