Swedens first and still only sustainable fashion week

All over the world, the latest year’s discussion on sustainable fashion has put pressure on Fashion Weeks in becoming more sustainable. This has resulted in cancelation for some, like the Stockholm fashion week, with visions on returning in a more sustainable alternative.  

But, there are already alternatives growing out in Sweden. Last year I attended what would be Swedens first and, until today, still only sustainable fashion week. It was in late Oktober in the middle size town Östersund in Jämtland where the change makers Lisbeth Mellgren and Camilla Forsgren had created a week full of inspiration around sustainable fashion. 

The purpose of the week was to highlight sustainable fashion and design. The week was filled with a lot of lectures and workshops. As well as exhibitions, fashion shows, flea markets, clothing swaps events, markets and performances. For this event, they had attracted some big names like Houdini and Slow Fashion expert Johanna Nilsson. 

The event was well put together and had this great mix of inspirational fashion shows and deep discussion talks between brands and activists. You could come there both as a confirmed enthusiast and new to the subject and curious about how to create a sustainable closet - there would still be a lot to explore, learn, and to take with you. 
For example at this festival, I discovered and got to meet shoe designer Josefin Liljequist. She has a very interesting approach in creating the first traceable leather footwear, as a part of her mission to improve global animal protection. You will find more of her work on Instagram. 

I’ve recently heard that there will be an encore for Swedens first an still only sustainable fashion week, this time also in Östersund in Oktober. Something well worth mentioning and visiting in hope to grow bigger. Once again small change-makers and entrepreneurs show us that it is possible to create within boundaries for sustainability. 

Keep your eyes open for a schedule update on http://sustainablefashionweek.se/and we’re also hoping to feature more of the event here on A Sustainable Closet when it’s closer to date.