INTERVIEW #16 PAMPAS
“Of course, small-scale production may cost more, but on the other hand, you then shop with care and the garment has a much longer lifespan compared to something you found in the sale basket that hangs with the price tag on until you no longer want it.”
So much fun to have you here on A Sustainable Closet! Tell us, how are you?
I am very happy that our paths have crossed. Today is hot and Friday, wonderful in other words.
And now to your business, what is Pampas, where are you based and when did you launch?
Pampas is my little baby. My company and one of my great passions in life. I am based in Malmö and at the beginning of June I opened a physical store and showroom, which still feels unreal. In the company, me (and my fantastic employees) design and sew small-scale production of clothes - mainly caftans and dresses.
How did you come up with the name Pampas?
My friend, who was on the ship when everything was on a hobby level, planted Pampas grass in her garden and so we came up with the name.
Where do you find your inspiration?
My creativity comes from within. I am also a musician and the pandemic made me pause the music and instead get my creativity out into something else. The creation of clothes. Love it!
“Try to see the value in things”
What has been the largest gain up until now?
The biggest benefit for me is that I opened my eyes to something other than the music. I am so happy and inspired. I also do not feel the same pressure as I always did when it comes to music. I have no references here, everything feels so free and without requirements. A tip for other creators out there; try to do something completely different so maybe some pressure will drop in what you do otherwise.
Another big benefit is having myself as an employer. Sometimes it feels like even my full potential is not visible when I look for a job. You know, when you get invited to come for an interview and you borrow a Swedish last name on your CV but get a no thank you when I signed with my own Arabic, last name. Same CV, same person. When that happened I had enough and decided that me, myself and I would be my own boss from now on. Because I know what I'm capable of.
What do you think needs to change in the fashion industry in order to make it more sustainable?
Shop second hand or small scale. Buy garments you really want so that the garment has a long life - it is crucial!
What is "greenwashing" according to YOU and what in your opinion, can producers and consumers do to avoid it?
This is a rather difficult question because that is exactly what the problem is; that the customers should believe that something is good for the environment when in fact it is not good at all. But shopping second-hand or small-scale is a step in the right direction. Raise awareness about the things we shop for.
What is your advice to fashion consumers out there who seek to create a sustainable closet and lifestyle?
A bit like I answered the question before. But trying to see the value in things. Of course, small-scale production may cost more, but on the other hand, you then shop with care and the garment has a much longer lifespan compared to something you found in the sale basket that hangs with the price tag on until you no longer want it. It is really a challenge. I think it is extremely difficult to resist the giant chains and the cheap prices sometimes. I believe accounts and initiatives like A Sustainable Closet are so heavenly good to stay updated and get reminded.