INTERVIEW #87 EMILY FENVES
Name: Emily Fenves
Based in: Austin, Texas, USA
Occupation: Social worker, sustainable fashion educator and advocate
Get inspired by: Aja Barber, Heidi Kaluza
Why we love her: Great aesthetics, useful tips, lots of inspiration, stylish and professional. Has a pure and lovely relationship with her clothes and These are the reasons we are really fond of Emily and The Lander Line.
Hi Emily, we’re so happy to have you here on A Sustainable Closet today! Tell us about yourself?
My education and career is in medical social work. I absolutely love that work. Being in a medical setting has a special energy that is hard to describe. After having kids, I realized I wanted to do something creative in addition to direct practice, so I created lander line in September of 2021 in an effort to reach a wider audience. Lander line was born out of my interest in helping others in a different way–through education about sustainable choices in fashion, safe consumption, and responsible elimination.
What’s your relationship with clothes?
I’m a minimalist. The more stuff I have, the more anxious I feel. I treat my clothing like they are sacred pieces, and take care of them with respect. I preserve things that I know I would like to pass down to family members, including my daughter. If a piece of clothing is not serving me any longer, I try to figure out why I’m not reaching for it, and try to avoid making that choice again (this has taken me years to figure out!). I invest in quality pieces that are liveable and comfortable. I also stay away from fast fashion and focus on supporting small, slow, and local brands.
How would you describe your style?
I’m drawn to neutral colors and you will often find me wearing whites, tans, and browns. Once in a while, I’ll add a touch of bright color, but it’s pretty rare! I would call my style California Casual with a Twist (I like to add a fun pair of boots, a cool oversized jacket, or pair unexpected textures together).
Any favorite items?
I was recently gifted an amazing, buttery pair of leather black boots from a new brand called Brooklyn Bandit. The founder, Linda, is a gem and has a past career in luxury fashion. She created her own brand to shift the behaviors and unethical practices she saw in the industry. Her ethos is amazing and her boots are proof of that. I am also obsessed with an oversized pair of distressed grey jeans from Boyish–another sustainable brand that has an approachable line of denim that is so comfortable (of course, comfort is key for me). A great size inclusive designer out of Canada is Bohéme. Soft, natural fabrics that are made slow and to order out of Canada.
Where do you find inspiration?
A lot of my visual inspiration comes from the accounts I follow on Instagram. I set a timer on my phone and explore different accounts about 10 minutes a day. I also love to travel and get inspired by my surroundings. My favorite places to visit are New York, California, and the Carolina’s. I’m itching to go to London as well!
Do you have a style icon, if yes, who?
Oh man, they have changed so much throughout the years. One that comes immediately to my mind is Jessica Alba (her style has changed through the years as well!) She just exudes confidence and intelligence, and has great taste. I also love the way Rachel Pally dresses (another great designer out of LA, I’ve loved her stuff for years). She is minimalist, fresh, and effortless.
Favorite stores and brands to shop from?
Love Craft, Hearth & Soul, Good Company in Austin. Rachel Pally, Boyish, Re/done, Ganni.
What is a sustainable closet for you?
One where you wear what you have. You eliminate responsibly. You consider fabrics and buy organic when you can. You consider quality over quantity. You consider second-hand. You love on your clothes!
What do you think about the fashion industry in general?
My hope is that we will continue to see positive change. I think that is only possible if we, as consumers, continue to challenge the industry. We need to educate and arm ourselves with information about how the fashion industry has historically impacted the climate negatively, and expect way better. I think we need more regulation so big brands and companies are held accountable to change, and are an ACTIVE part of that change. I think big things will happen in the next 10 years! We will see more upcycling, recycling materials, technology, and transparency.
What can one do that seeks to create a more sustainable closet?
Wear what you have, and learn how to eliminate responsibly (and again, figure out why you don't want that item anymore–was it trendy, poorly made, not the right color for you?) Learn from your past purchases.