INTERVIEW #126 OFF WITH NATURE

Based in: Italy

Founded in: 2017

Founded by: Marilena Alberti

Stores: www.offwithnature.com, IVALO, VEO, EL GREEN MALL, SPARTOO, ALTRA MODA

Price range: 20-120 EUR

Instagram: @own_offwithnature

Ciao OWN, welcome to A Sustainable Closet! Happy to have you here, tell our readers about OFF WITH NATURE (love the name), who are you?

OWN-OFF WITH NATURE is a transversal and authentic brand that respects nature and the lifestyle of consumers and whose choices are inspired by the needs and well-being of the environment. This project is based on the idea of fashion that pays attention to the conscious use of natural resources and the preservation of the planet. There is also a fair match between product quality and value. Consumers no longer have to choose between sustainability and affordable prices. Versatile garments, free from seasonality, simple lines, clean cuts and a zero-waste philosophy that is very important to the brand. The brand commitment is confirmed by some of the most prestigious international organizations in the world of sustainability that support a transparent production and supply chain: GOTS, GRS, OEKO-TEX, PETA, ANIMAL FREE FASHION, FSC. OWN also constantly faces new challenges and researches innovative materials and processes with the aim of further reducing its ecological footprint.

How and where are the products produced, who are your workers?

It is important for us to provide the opportunity to work in a proper environment, even in countries where this is unfortunately not always possible. Certification means contributing to the overall improvement of working conditions, environmental sustainability and ethical business practices in the global fashion industry. All of this can be achieved by ensuring fair wages, reasonable working hours, safe working conditions, preventing child labor and promoting gender equality. We believe that sustainability isn’t  possible without people and that ensuring it is part of the way we work.

All the production sites we work with (Turkey, China and Bangladesh), and the certifications we possess, certify not only the ecological aspect of sustainability but also the social aspect and the environment for the workers.

What are your materials and where do you source them from? 

We source our certified fibers from Turkey, China and Bangladesh.

What is your best selling product? 

Our best selling product is our Women's Hoodie with side slits

Where on the planet are your customers based? 

We can sell via our website in Europe, the USA and Australia. At the moment our main customers are mainly from Italy and the Scandinavian countries

Where do you find inspiration for your sporty and chic styles? Comfort is not only functional anymore but a real way of dressing even outside the house.  

Our main designer inspiration comes from the need for physical and mental care and well-being. We examine the functionality and performance characteristics of activewear, then incorporate moisture-wicking, breathable and stretchy fabrics into designs that offer both style and functionality. Incorporate elements from different cultures and stay up to date with new trends and innovative designs.

What have been/and are the major challenges of starting OWN? 

Establishing a sustainable brand is a particular challenge, as it is not only about building a successful business, but also about adhering to ethical and ecological principles. We are a truly new brand, now opening up to the market outside Italy and facing all the difficulties of entering an already crowded and competitive market. There is strong competition among sustainable brands, even if our brand is 100% certified, which means that audits are often carried out to check whether the brand is sustainable enough to maintain its certification and to ensure transparency in the supply chain. Finding reliable suppliers that provide sustainable and ethical materials can be a challenge, and the desire for eco-friendly materials requires careful research and negotiation as they are more expensive than the traditional options.

What have been and are the largest gains? 

Most importantly, we are trying to change people’s mindsets by building trust with consumers increasingly concerned about environmental and social issues. Sustainable practices such as energy efficiency, waste reduction and responsible sourcing can benefit our planet and reduce long-term costs. Educating consumers about the value and benefits of sustainable products can be challenging, especially in markets where awareness is low.

What do you think needs to change in the fashion industry to make it more sustainable? 

The fashion industry faces numerous challenges in terms of environmental impact and ethical practices. Several changes and initiatives are needed to make the industry more sustainable. Using eco-friendly materials to reduce the environmental impact of textile production should be mandatory; promoting recycling, upcycling and designing products with a long lifespan by encouraging consumers to invest in timeless and long-lasting pieces through education; promoting transparency throughout the supply chain; supporting fair wages, safe working conditions and an ethical environment; introducing new practices and technologies that reduce the environmental footprint and promote responsible production.

What's up next, do you have anything fun to share with our readers? 

We have many projects in the drawer, but the most exciting thing for us is a whole range of packable garments. We started with a 100% packable bag, and are now working on a small collection of 100% packable jackets and pants made from 100% certified recycled nylon. We are also introducing a new product category for the fall/winter season: the OWN Outwear.