Sustainability & Ethics

Commitment to sustainability

OBE Label was created with the intention of being a slow alternative to fast fashion stores. The items are high quality and made to be worn for years, rather than during one season or for one trend. The fashion industry is absolutely detrimental to the environment and is devastating the natural world, and so it is important to only purchase from fully sustainable brands or second hand items.

Aside from the environmental effects, the fashion industry is full of exploitation of human workers. There are many ethical issues with the production of clothing nowadays and they are often poor quality, made in sweatshops. Again, it is important here to purchase from ethical brands or second hand clothing stores.

Here are steps we take to ensure that we are as sustainable and ethical as possible:
-Everything is handmade in Buckinghamshire, UK by Olivia in her studio.
-Most items are made from second hand or deadstock fabric. Those which are not, are made from natural fibres (such as cotton and linen) or recycled polyester.
-All items are vegan; we never use real leather, silk or wool.
-Most supplies are second hand for example the thread, needles, machine and even chalk.
-All small scraps are recycled so there is no textile waste.
-10% of profits go to charity. Press here for more information.
-All items are posted gift wrapped in plastic-free packaging.
-Items are made to order to avoid mass production which may not sell.

Here are some resources to learn more about sustainable and ethical fashion:
-'Good On You' is an ethical and sustainable app that rates brands based on their labour practices, environmental impact and animal welfare
-'The True Cost' is a documentary that considers the social and environmental costs of fast fashion
-'Loved Clothes Last' by Orsola de Castro is a great book which teaches how to care for clothes and make them last, and looks at current issues with the fashion industry