The Future of Bridal Fashion: Sustainability
There’s no doubt that the fashion world is moving towards greater ecological integrity. We chat to Hayley Neil of sustainable bridalwear label Rolling In Roses to hear more about her Kirei collection and her essential advice for boutiques looking to offer more ethical options to the modern consumer.
Tell us what inspired your latest collection, Kirei.
I was inspired by the elegant simplicity of ancient Japanese ink wash paintings, and the use of negative space and tranquillity of Japanese art and design in general - the intention to keep things as simple as possible with no unnecessary or frivolous detail, and let the basic form and essence of things speak for themselves.
‘Sumi-e’ inkwash painting is created with simple black ink and carefully curated white space, and it takes such skill to make these deceptively simple artworks look effortless when actually they’re the result of years of practice. I feel like it’s similar to pattern cutting in that one sweep of the brush can change the whole picture, just as one perfectly positioned drape or fold of fabric can transform a dress. Like using fabric like a paintbrush!
And the fabrics you use: what are some of your favourites from the new collection and how you ensure they’re both luxurious and sustainable?
My two favourites of this collection are a luxury heavyweight Italian crêpe which is made from a blend of organic viscose and recycled acetate (which are both in turn made from natural cellulose sources, so it’s a lovely breathable biodegradable fabric), and an amazing satin called Naia, which looks and feels just like silk but is in fact made entirely from pine and eucalyptus trees!
I’m obsessed. It’s produced using a closed-loop process where all solvents and water are cleaned and reused again, which means it has an incredibly low-impact manufacturing process, with a low tree-to-fibre carbon and water footprint and is classed as biodegradable and compostable. It’s incredible!
I’m so proud to say that 94.8% of the fabrics used in this collection have sustainable certification; whether that’s organic, closed-loop, vegan, biodegradable, compostable, or recycled, meaning our materials are produced in ways that protect the environment, are low-carbon, protect natural resources like forests and water, and are cruelty-free and ethically made.
And even the 5.2% of fabrics we use without certification are natural biodegradable fabrics, so we’re ridiculously pleased with the fabrics we’ve found!
What would be your biggest pearls of wisdom to offer boutiques and designers looking to offer more ethical options for the conscious consumer?
I’m certain none of us in the bridal world want to contribute to the detrimental effects of the garment industry, and if we all work together and make a concerted effort to bring about change, (however small), we can make a real difference. Our focus and commitment to sustainability, ethics, and inclusivity are the backbone of the label. We use certified fabrics that are eco friendly, ethically produced, organic and recycled, and offer vegan alternatives to silk. For us, sustainability is a lifestyle, not a gimmick! We also strive to be as inclusive and body-positive as possible, offering every style in any size required.
