This post is done in collaboration with Trace Collective

Trace Collective is a young sustainable London fashion brand doing incredible things; the level of radical transparency this brand provides is a very high standard for exactly how all brands need to disclose information. Each item you wish to purchase at Trace Collective links to its creation journey and impact, so you will know exactly how much CO2, water and energy was saved in the creation of your item, how much money was donated to charitable organizations, exact locations of farms, mills, plants and factories where the materials were sourced and the garment produced and the breakdown of materials used (including fabrics, threads, hardware, the label itself & tags). I find this level of transparency absolutely incredible because sustainability is not just another trend, this is exactly how brands have to operate to make consumers fully aware what their purchase means for the environment and themselves.

What I also loved seeing on the Trace Collective site is the breakdown of prices: what it costs to make a truly high-quality garment and what it is you’re actually paying for and why. The number one complaint I hear from people against adapting a more sustainable lifestyle and wardrobe is “its just too expensive”, so I find it extremely important to show the bigger picture of what you pay for. Purchasing a piece from Trace Collective that cost £115 to make and marked to retail for £395, you receive an item you will not need to replace anytime soon, (if ever) so you’re essentially making a smart investment into the quality and longevity of your wardrobe.

Finally, as a new ambassador of Trace Collective I wasn’t just gifted the clothes as standard collaborations usually work, I was lent them with an option to purchase and I absolutely love this influencer marketing model. Quantity and quality matter to truly sustainable brands, so they aim not to overproduce inventory and in the long run, it costs them more money to make each piece.