SUSTAINABILITY

Reckless Sustainability 

The environment we live in is paramount, without it, we are nothing. With a deep affinity for the ocean, sustainability informs every decision I make. 

Fabrics & Materials

The foundation of sustainability is thoughtful fabric choice. Polyester, nylon, and vinyl (sometimes called “vegan leather”) are plastics. They are non-biodegradable and therefore not sustainable in the long term.

I do my best to choose natural fibres wherever possible. However, longevity also matters. Some viscose garments are exceptionally durable, holding their colour and shape wash after wash, often without needing ironing. In practice, durability can be its own form of sustainability.

Choosing locally made Australian products can support local industry and strengthen community economies. However, most garments sold in Australia are manufactured overseas, which means “local versus imported” is only one part of a much larger sustainability picture.

Environmental impact in fashion is rarely straightforward. Comparing a locally made polyester dress with a cotton dress produced overseas requires looking beyond geography alone. While local production may reduce transport emissions, other factors often carry greater weight in a garment’s overall footprint.

These include fibre type, agricultural practices such as pesticide and water use, and the environmental impact of dyeing and finishing processes.

Natural fibres such as cotton, linen, and wool are preferred for their wearability and biodegradability - wool especially. And sheep enjoy a good shearing every 8 months or so. 

 

A quick note on PFAS “forever chemicals”: I will never choose garments that include coatings such as vinyl plastic that can break down in the washing machine. I also avoid products with waterproofing qualities until manufacturers can prove they are PFOS and PFAS free - this includes umbrellas, rainproof bags, waterproof coats, and other wet-weather gear. We can live without them if it means we get to live. Customers who want to talk about PFAS are always welcome - I’m happy to discuss why this matters and how it should inform our choices. Phone 0414 678 322.

For a deeper dive into sustainable fashion, I recommend the film The True Cost—have a box of tissues nearby.

https://youtu.be/rwp0Bx0awoE?si=-056yAg1WU9zFbZ5 

Watch here(copy and paste link into your browser)

Even recycled polyester isn’t a perfect solution: once transformed into clothing, it can’t be remade into new garments, and will persist in landfills indefinitely. A plastic bottle can become another plastic bottle can become another plastic bottle. But a plastic bottle that becomes a pair of jeans will end its life there. The cotton in the jeans will eventually break down, and the plastic will live on in landfill forever. The plastic cannot be remade into other items. 

Shop Practices & Packaging

I take care to minimise my environmental footprint throughout the boutique:

• Garments are packaged in biodegradable tissue, repurposed plastic, and/ or compostable shipping bags

• Metal hardware (slips and clips) is chosen over plastic for longevity and biodegradability

• Only natural, biodegradable jewellery is stocked

• Cake soap is used in the shop; no plastic pump packaging

• Customer drinks are served in glassware, not paper cups, which have a thin plastic lining 

• Soft plastics are reused, donated, or recycled

The ‘Once-Loved’ rack features high-quality pre-loved garments, ranging from sizes 6 to 22, giving clothes a second life.

The Philosophy

I am committed to selling pieces that are worn, cherished, and long-lasting. Minimalism and capsule wardrobes can be useful, but owning beautiful garments that make you feel confident, comfortable, and uniquely yourself is equally important. Quality, sustainability, and joy can coexist.

I am continually learning and evolving in my sustainability practices, and I am deeply grateful to everyone in the fashion industry who champions ethical production, challenges greenwashing, and fights for fair labor practices. Their efforts inspire and guide the boutique’s journey.