INTERVIEW #33 IMPERFECTIONISTS
Based in: Copenhagen, Denmark
Founded by: Dilayla Kopuz & Olina Asbæk Schytte
Founded in: 2020 (although the research journey started 3 years ago)
Instagram: @imperfectionists_official
Store: https://imperfectionists.dk/
Price range: 1200DKK
Why we love them: The new forerunners in fashion, welcome to A Sustainable Closet. We’re so happy to include Dilayla & Olina and their amazing brand in our community of sustainable fashion. Sweaters made of hemp, wow! We just can’t wait to see what these entrepreneurs will make their next drop from, oranges? Follow them to see more!
Tell us about IMperfectionists and why you started?
So, three key words we find to define IMperfectionists by are: Sustainable, responsible and innovative. In the sense of sustainability we are defining it in a different way than what is currently out on the market, meaning we only use sustainable, innovative and 100% natural textiles. We are very into these new types of textiles such as seaweed fibers and silk made from oranges. Our first ever collection which consists of sweatshirts are made out of hemp and as we move forward we will expand our portfolio with more innovative textiles. IMperfectionists are not only about choosing the right textiles, we also strongly focus on the innovative part, by prototyping our pieces digitally. We are collaborating with a 3D artist who is educating us to use a 3D software where we shape the products. In this way we minimize fabric waste from sample making.
For us as designers it is very important to show our community and consumers who are the people behind the garment. Therefore, every single garment comes with a QR code where you can see, step by step how the item is made.
Where are the products being manufactured?
Our first collection is responsibly made in Istanbul, Turkey. We work with a small atelier owned by a husband and his wife who together with their employee produce the IMperfecttionists sweatshirts. They are never paid less than a living wage by us and we also supervised the whole process by being present during the production.
We support Fashion Revolution, both the Danish and the Turkish one, something we believe is very important when running a brand.
From where do you source the material?
Our first batch of textiles were produced in China and we purchased them through a British company but unfortunately they weren’t as transparent as we wished for and couldn’t prove their sustainability profile. We have now found a new fabric supplier, based in Italy which we are very satisfied to work with. They also support Fashion Revolution and are furthermore transparent about everything which we value very highly.
Where do you find inspiration?
Bringing an alternative to fast fashion is something that really inspires us. We want to provide biodegradable fashion and become pioneers in the field. Another big inspiration that moves us forward is the ability to provide genderless clothing and challenge the ideals that “we have to” look in a certain way.
What has been the biggest challenge up until now?
First of all, we don’t have a background in fashion, meaning we had to take a lot of courses to get a grip of it. Secondly, finding good and trustable suppliers. We also found it challenging to manage everything starting and running a brand come with. Fortunately we are good at different things and can thereby complete and learn from each other.
What has been the biggest gain so far?
We find it amazing how we took a big step out of our comfort zones and started IMperfectionists. Our personal development and how far we have come at a young age yet all the amazing people we are surrounded by is a pure bliss.
What do you think needs to change in the fashion industry in order to make it more sustainable?
We believe people need to realize that there are different ways of using the word sustainability. Brands should inform their consumers what they’re producing and be transparent about the whole lead. Consumers do have a huge impact in what they purchase and it can for sure affect brands and how much or how they produce.
The Danish government recently implemented new rules regarding greenwashing and how companies should use sustainability terms. We think this is really good and truly a step forward.
What are your best tips for fashion lovers out there who seek to create a sustainable closet and lifestyle?
First we would like to say: the most sustainable item is already in our closet. So, if you want to create a sustainable closet use what is already in there, style it in different ways and be creative. If you want to purchase something from a new brand, do your research, make sure the item is timeless and durable.
What is the absolute best thing about your job?
Having the creative rhythm and the fact that we get to be part of every step of this journey.
