Wear what you wonder, for your extrodinary life demands it, and your generous heart deserves it.

SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability at The Reckless Abandon Boutique

At The Reckless Abandon Boutique, I believe the environment we live in is of utmost importance. With a deep affinity for the ocean, sustainability informs every decision I make - often over profitability. I encourage you to be mindful of your purchases: only buy what you truly love, so garments are worn often and can even be passed down.

Fabrics & Materials

The foundation of sustainability is thoughtful fabric choice. Polyester, nylon, and vinyl (sometimes called ‘vegan leather’) are plastics—non-biodegradable and therefore not sustainable. While locally made Australian products are ideal to reduce shipping emissions, environmental impact often outweighs politics. For instance, a 100% cotton dress made overseas may be a better choice than an Australian polyester item, depending on factors like fabric quality, pesticide use, and dyeing practices.

Natural fibres such as cotton, linen, and wool are preferred for their longevity and biodegradability—wool especially, as sheep enjoy a good shearing. Carefully selected garments containing viscose or rayon are chosen for durability and hand-me-down potential.

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 informs our choices.

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.

Shop Practices & Packaging

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

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

  • Metal hardware is chosen over plastic for longevity and biodegradability

  • Only natural, biodegradable jewellery is stocked

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

  • Customer drinks are served in reused glassware, passed down through generations

  • Soft plastics are reused for home or shop purposes, and larger bags are donated to those who can repurpose them

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.