Sustainable Fashion: Why it matters and What can we Do

Fashion has always been a means of self-expression, but it’s time to consider the impact our clothing choices have on the environment. The fashion industry is the second-largest polluter in the world, right behind the oil and gas industry. From the production of raw materials to the disposal of clothing, fashion has a significant environmental footprint. Sustainable fashion is the solution to reducing fashion’s impact on the environment. In this blog, we’ll explore why sustainable fashion matters and what you can do to contribute to a more sustainable future.

Why Sustainable Fashion Matters

  1. Reducing Pollution: Fashion production is one of the leading causes of pollution, with textiles contributing to 1.2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. The use of toxic chemicals and dyes in production also leads to the pollution of waterways and soil. Sustainable fashion seeks to reduce this impact by using eco-friendly materials, reducing water usage, and implementing ethical production practices.
  2. Protecting Natural Resources: The fashion industry consumes vast amounts of natural resources, including water, oil, and land. For example, it takes 2,700 liters of water to produce a single cotton t-shirt. Sustainable fashion aims to use resources more efficiently and reduce waste by promoting the use of recycled and organic materials.
  3. Promoting Ethical Labor Practices: The fashion industry is known for its poor labor practices, with many garment workers enduring long hours and low wages. Sustainable fashion seeks to promote ethical labor practices by ensuring workers are paid fair wages and work in safe and healthy conditions.

What You Can Do

  1. Choose Sustainable Brands: Look for brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical production practices. Some popular sustainable fashion brands include Everlane, Patagonia, and Reformation.
  2. Shop Second-Hand: Second-hand shopping is a great way to reduce clothing waste and extend the life of clothing. Look for thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like Poshmark and ThredUp.
  3. Invest in Quality Pieces: Invest in high-quality, timeless pieces that will last longer and reduce the need for constant replacements.
  4. Support Eco-Friendly Materials: Choose clothing made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, bamboo, and recycled polyester.
  5. Repair and Upcycle Clothing: Instead of throwing out old clothing, consider repairing or upcycling it. You can learn how to repair clothing yourself or take it to a tailor or seamstress.

Conclusion

Sustainable fashion is essential to reducing fashion’s impact on the environment and promoting ethical labor practices. By choosing sustainable brands, shopping second-hand, investing in quality pieces, supporting eco-friendly materials, and repairing or upcycling clothing, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future. Let’s make a conscious effort to prioritize sustainability in our fashion choices and make a positive impact on the world.

 

9 TO 5 FASHION

When it comes to office attire, the term “9 to 5 fashion” immediately comes to mind. It refers to the clothing worn during the workweek, typically from 9am to 5pm. While the dress code may vary from one workplace to another, it’s essential to maintain a professional image while still expressing your personal style. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key elements of 9 to 5 fashion and offer tips on how to put together stylish work outfits.

  1. Dress for the Job You Want The way you dress is often seen as a reflection of your competence and professionalism. Therefore, it’s crucial to dress for the job you want, not the job you have. If you’re trying to climb the corporate ladder, dressing the part is essential. This doesn’t mean you have to wear a suit every day but dressing more formally than your colleagues will help you stand out and show that you take your job seriously.
  2. Keep it Simple When it comes to office attire, it’s always better to keep it simple. Stick to neutral colors, such as black, white, gray, and navy, and choose classic silhouettes that flatter your figure. Avoid anything too flashy or trendy, as it may distract from your professionalism.
  3. Invest in Quality Basics Investing in high-quality basics is a smart move for your 9 to 5 wardrobe. A well-tailored blazer, a crisp white shirt, and a versatile pair of trousers will never go out of style and can be worn in many ways. Look for pieces made from quality materials that will last, and don’t be afraid to spend a little more on items that you’ll wear frequently.
  4. Add Some Personality While it’s essential to keep your 9 to 5 wardrobe professional, you don’t have to sacrifice your personal style. Add some personality to your outfits with accessories, such as statement jewelry, a colorful scarf, or a patterned bag. These touches can help you stand out while still maintaining a professional image.
  5. Dress for Comfort should be a top priority when it comes to workwear. You don’t want to be distracted by uncomfortable shoes or restrictive clothing while you’re trying to focus on your job. Opt for comfortable, breathable fabrics and shoes that won’t leave your feet sore at the end of the day.
  6. Pay Attention to Fit The right fit is crucial when it comes to office attire. Clothes that are too tight or too loose can make you appear unprofessional. Take the time to try on clothes and ensure they fit well. If necessary, get items tailored to ensure a perfect fit.
  7. Layering is Key Layering is an excellent way to add interest to your outfits and stay comfortable in a range of temperatures. A cardigan or blazer can be easily added or removed depending on the weather and can also add a touch of style to an otherwise basic outfit.

In conclusion, 9 to 5 fashion is all about finding the right balance between professionalism and personal style. By investing in quality basics, adding some personality with accessories, and paying attention to fit and comfort, you can put together stylish work outfits that will help you look and feel your best. Remember, your office attire should always be appropriate for your workplace, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring!

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EXPLORING THE INTERSECTION OF TECHNOLOGY AND SUSTAINABILITY

As Needleskart Sourcing team we look to the future, one industry that is poised for significant change is the world of fashion. In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards sustainability and ethical practices within the fashion industry. This movement, often referred to as “future forward fashion,” is gaining momentum as consumers become increasingly aware of the impact their purchases have on the environment and society.
The concept of future forward fashion is centered around the idea of creating clothing that is not only sustainable but also innovative and technologically advanced. This means using materials and manufacturing techniques that minimize waste, reduce environmental impact, and prioritize the well-being of workers involved in the production process. It also involves using new technologies and design methods to create clothing that is more functional, comfortable, and adaptable to changing conditions.
One of the most exciting developments in future forward fashion is the use of 3D printing technology. 3D printing allows designers to create complex shapes and structures that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing methods. This technology also enables the creation of custom-fit clothing, which can reduce waste and improve the overall fit and comfort of the garment.

Another area of innovation in future forward fashion is the development of smart textiles. Smart textiles are fabrics that are embedded with sensors, electronics, and other technologies that enable them to perform a range of functions, from monitoring vital signs to adjusting to changing temperatures. These textiles have the potential to revolutionize the way we think about clothing, making it more functional and adaptable to our needs.
In addition to technological advancements, future forward fashion also involves a shift towards circularity and closed-loop systems. This means designing products with the end of their lifecycle in mind, so that they can be easily disassembled, recycled, or repurposed. This approach can help to reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
Overall, future forward fashion represents a new era of innovation and sustainability in the fashion industry. As consumers become more conscious of the impact their purchases have on the world, we can expect to see more designers and brands embracing these new technologies and practices to create clothing that is not only fashionable but also ethical and sustainable.

“The Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion: Why We Need to Shop Sustainably”

Fast fashion has become a significant issue in the clothing industry, and it is affecting the environment in various ways. The concept of fast fashion involves producing large quantities of clothing in a short amount of time, and at a low cost. While this may seem appealing to consumers who want to stay up to date with the latest fashion trends, it is having a detrimental impact on the environment. In this blog post, “NeedlesKart Sourcing” would like to highlight the environmental impact of fast fashion and why we need to shop sustainably.

 

The Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion:

  • Pollution from Textile Production: The textile industry is responsible for a significant amount of pollution worldwide. The production of synthetic fibers, which are often used in fast fashion, releases harmful chemicals and toxins into the environment. These chemicals can contaminate water supplies and harm wildlife, as well as have negative impacts on human health.
  • Carbon Emissions: The production of clothing also contributes to carbon emissions, which contribute to climate change. Fast fashion relies on a supply chain that involves shipping materials and finished products across the globe. This transportation results in significant carbon emissions from transportation, contributing to the growing issue of climate change.
  • Landfills: Fast fashion also contributes to the growing problem of waste management. Clothing is often discarded after only a few wears, and the sheer quantity of clothing produced means that a significant amount ends up in landfills. Textiles take a long time to decompose, and when they do, they release harmful gasses into the atmosphere.

Why We Need to Shop Sustainably:

  • Protect the Environment: By shopping sustainably, we can reduce the environmental impact of the clothing industry. Sustainable clothing is produced using eco-friendly materials and processes that minimize pollution and carbon emissions. By choosing sustainable clothing options, we can contribute to protecting the environment and preserving natural resources. We can proudly announce that “NeedleKart Sourcing” is working with so many good factories, who have already switched to eco-friendly to reduce the carbon emission and to protect our environment.
  • Reduce Waste: Sustainable clothing is often produced using durable materials that can be worn for a long time. This reduces the amount of clothing that ends up in landfills, which can have significant environmental and social impacts. In addition, shopping sustainably can encourage brands to adopt more sustainable production methods, leading to reduced waste in the long run. “NeedleKart Sourcing” is working on its best to provide brands what they are looking for without harming our environments. By 2025 “NeedleKart Sourcing” & its partners will have zero carbon emission.
  • Support Ethical Production Practices: Sustainable clothing is often produced using ethical production practices, including fair labor standards and transparent supply chains. By choosing to shop sustainably, we can support companies that prioritize ethical production practices and ensure that workers are treated fairly.

How to Shop Sustainably:

  • Choose Eco-Friendly Materials: Look for clothing made from eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp. These materials are produced using sustainable methods and do not rely on harmful chemicals or synthetic fibers.
  • Use Recyclable Polyester fabrics: To reduce the harmful environmental effects of plastic, we should switch to recyclable polyester. We at “NeedlesKart Sourcing” are working with so many recyclable factories which are doing this on a large scale.
  • Buy from Sustainable Brands: Research and support brands that prioritize sustainable and ethical production practices. These brands often have transparent supply chains and can provide information on the environmental impact of their production methods. “NeedlesKart Sourcing” can be an asset to help any brand to go sustainable even if you do not have any prior market knowledge.
  • Shop Secondhand: Buying secondhand clothing is an excellent way to reduce waste and give clothing a second life. Thrift stores and consignment shops offer a wide variety of clothing options that are often in excellent condition and at a lower cost.
  • Invest in Quality Pieces: Choose high-quality clothing that is designed to last. These pieces are often made from durable materials and can be worn for a long time, reducing the need to purchase new clothing frequently. We at “NeedlesKart Sourcing” work only on the best quality products and we make sure to provide it in a feasible and effective way.

Conclusion

The environmental impact of fast fashion is a growing concern, and it is crucial that we take steps to shop sustainably. By choosing eco-friendly materials, supporting sustainable brands, and buying secondhand or investing in quality pieces, we at “NeedlesKart Sourcing” are working hard to contribute to reducing the environmental impact of the clothing industry. Shopping sustainably not only protects the environment but also supports ethical production practices and reduces waste. Let’s work together to make sustainable fashion the new norm.

Tradition and Handlooms are in Danger?

History of Handlooms:

        Traditional handlooms have a rich and ancient history that can be traced back to various civilizations and cultures around the world. The roots of traditional handloom can be found in the following civilizations and cultures:

 

Ancient India: The Indian subcontinent has a long tradition of handloom weaving, with evidence of cotton fabrics being woven as early as 5000 BCE. The country has a diverse range of handloom traditions, including the famous silk handlooms of Benares, the cotton weaves of Bengal, and the silk and cotton fabrics of Tamil Nadu.

 

Ancient China: China is another ancient civilization with a rich history of handloom weaving. Chinese silk is world-renowned for its quality and has been traded across the world for centuries. The Chinese were also the first to develop the treadle loom, which allowed weavers to create more intricate designs and patterns.

 

Ancient Egypt: The ancient Egyptians were skilled weavers who used looms to create linen fabrics for clothing and household items. The mummies of Egyptian pharaohs have been found wrapped in fine linen fabrics, which were made using traditional handloom techniques.

 

Pre-Columbian America: The indigenous peoples of pre-Columbian America, including the Incas, Aztecs, and Mayans, had sophisticated textile traditions that involved spinning and weaving natural fibers such as cotton and alpaca wool. The textiles produced were often highly decorated with intricate designs and patterns.

 

Overall, traditional handloom has a long and rich history that spans civilizations and cultures around the world. Today, traditional handloom continues to be an important cultural heritage and provides livelihoods for skilled artisans.

 

Efforts & Hard-work to Make Fabric in Traditional Handloom:

        Efforts & hard-work to make fabric in traditional handloom involve several steps that require skill and expertise. Here is a brief overview of the process:

 

Spinning: The first step in making fabric in a traditional handloom is spinning. Natural fibers such as cotton, silk, and wool are spun into yarn using a spinning wheel or spindle. The yarn is then wound onto bobbins or spindles for weaving.

 

Warping: The next step is warping, which involves setting up the loom. The warp yarns are arranged in parallel on a frame called a warp beam, and then wound onto the loom. This process creates the foundation of the fabric.

 

Weaving: The weaver uses the shuttle to pass the weft yarns through the warp yarns to create the fabric. The weaver controls the tension of the yarns using foot pedals or a hand-operated mechanism.

 

Designing and dyeing: After the fabric is woven, it may be designed using traditional block printing, embroidery, or other techniques. The fabric can also be dyed using natural or synthetic dyes, depending on the preference of the weaver.

 

Finishing: Once the fabric is woven, it is washed and finished to remove any impurities and improve the texture. The fabric may be stretched, pressed, or ironed to create a smooth finish.

 

Overall, making fabric in traditional handlooms requires a high level of skill and expertise. The process is labour-intensive and can take several days to complete, depending on the complexity of the design and the type of fabric being produced. NeedlesKart Sourcing understands these essentials and works keenly with these handlooms. Despite the challenges, efforts to preserve and promote traditional handloom techniques continue around the world. And we support and respect these efforts.

 

Bhagalpur Handlooms – Traditional & Cultural Heritage of India:

        Bhagalpur Handloom is famous for its high-quality silk and cotton fabrics, intricate designs, and skilled craftsmanship. The handloom industry in Bhagalpur has a rich history and has been practiced for centuries, with the craft being passed down through generations.

 

The silk fabrics produced through Bhagalpur Handloom are particularly renowned for their fine texture, glossy sheen, and durability. The weavers in Bhagalpur use a range of silk types, including Tussar silk, Mulberry silk, and Eri silk, and incorporate various weaving techniques, such as jacquard and dobby weaves, to create stunning designs and patterns.

 

The traditional patterns and motifs used in Bhagalpur Handloom products are inspired by nature and include floral, geometric, and abstract designs. The weavers use a range of natural dyes to achieve a wide range of colors, and often incorporate metallic threads to add a touch of luxury and elegance to their products.

 

Bhagalpur Handloom has been recognized as a Geographical Indication (GI) product by the Indian government, which is a testament to its unique quality and cultural significance. The GI tag ensures that only products made in Bhagalpur using traditional techniques and materials can be sold under the Bhagalpur Handloom name. 

 

NeedlesKart Sourcing is working alongside these handlooms to support them as much as we can. We are giving them all the exposure with the brands around the world so that they can also get what they deserve. NeedlesKart Sourcing has collaborated with hundreds of these handlooms which provides living and work to these people who dedicated their lives to these traditional handlooms.

 

Traditional handloom is in danger:

        Traditional handlooms are in danger so does it’s workers and their livelihood due to several factors, including:

 

Competition from machine-made textiles: The rise of mass-produced, machine-made textiles has created intense competition for handloom products. Machine-made textiles are often cheaper and can be produced more quickly, making them more attractive to consumers.

 

Lack of government support: In many countries, including India, the government has not provided sufficient support for the handloom sector. Weavers often lack access to credit, training, and markets, which makes it difficult for them to sustain their livelihoods.

 

Changing consumer preferences: As consumer preferences change, traditional handloom products may become less popular. Younger generations may not appreciate the cultural and artistic value of handloom products and may prefer more modern designs and materials.

 

Labor-intensive nature of handloom weaving: Handloom weaving is a labor-intensive process that requires a high level of skill and patience. As a result, many young people are not interested in taking up the craft, and the number of skilled weavers is declining.

 

Cheap imports: Cheap textile imports from other countries can also threaten the livelihoods of traditional weavers. These imports can flood the market with cheap, low-quality products, making it difficult for weavers to compete.

 

Overall, the lack of support, changing consumer preferences, and competition from machine-made textiles and cheap imports have put the traditional handloom sector in danger. It is important to support and promote traditional handloom to help preserve this rich cultural heritage and support the livelihoods of skilled artisans. NeedlesKart Sourcing is asking all of the brands around the world to stand alongside us to support them and not let these handlooms diminish.

 

Let’s Save These People, This Culture & These Handlooms:  

        Supporting these small-scale handlooms can help preserve traditional crafts and support local communities. Here are some ways you can support small-scale handloom:

 

Buy handloom products: Purchasing handloom products directly from small-scale weavers is one of the most effective ways to support them. You can buy products like sarees, shawls, stoles, and other clothing items made from handloom fabric.

 

Spread awareness: Help spread awareness about handloom products and their significance. Educate your friends and family about the cultural and artistic value of handloom products and encourage them to support small-scale weavers.

 

Promote fair trade: Look for organizations that support fair trade and help promote ethical practices in the handloom industry. These organizations can help ensure that the weavers are paid fairly and work under good conditions.

 

Collaborate with weavers: If you are in the fashion or design industry, you can collaborate with small-scale weavers to create unique, handcrafted products. This can help promote the craft and create sustainable livelihoods for the weavers.

 

Visit handloom clusters: Plan a visit to handloom clusters and meet with the weavers. This can help you understand their craft better and appreciate the effort and skill that goes into creating handloom products.

 

By supporting these small-scale handlooms, you can help preserve traditional crafts and support local communities. NeedlesKart Sourcing will continue to work alongside these handlooms. Let’s join together and support these amazing craftsmen and their craftsmanship. Let the NeedlesKart Sourcing know your brands so that we can introduce you to these awesome handlooms. Because we believe “Creativity takes courage”.

“Recycled Polyester” – A Solution to Save our Home Planet

Plastic has a significant impact on the environment and the health of ecosystems and wildlife. Some of the ways plastic is harmful to the earth include:

Marine pollution: Plastic waste often ends up in oceans and rivers, where it poses a threat to marine life, such as birds, turtles, and whales, that mistake it for food or become entangled in plastic waste. This can cause injury, suffocation, and death.

Micro plastics: Micro plastics are small plastic particles that are less than 5mm in size and are dispersed in the environment, including oceans and waterways. They can enter the food chain and have been found in tap water, seafood, and even table salt. The long-term effects of exposure to micro plastics are unknown, but they may pose a threat to human health.

Land pollution: Plastic waste that is not properly disposed of can accumulate on land, causing harm to wildlife and ecosystems. Littering, illegal dumping, and the accumulation of plastic waste in landfills can also contribute to soil and water pollution.

Climate change: The production and disposal of plastic contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which are a major contributor to climate change. Plastic production also uses non-renewable resources and contributes to the depletion of oil reserves.

Health impacts: Some types of plastic contain toxic additives, such as phthalates, that can leach into food and drink and potentially harm human health. Additionally, the production of plastic releases pollutants into the air and water, which can have negative impacts on human health.

 

These are just a few examples of the harm that plastic can cause to the earth. Reducing plastic consumption and properly disposing of plastic waste are important steps towards mitigating its impact on the environment and wildlife. And NeedlesKart Sourcing took an initiative to work alongside with different brands to deal with this problem. NeedlesKart Sourcing working on “Recycled polyester” and encouraging brands to work along to save our home planet.

 

What Is Recycled Polyester?

Recycled polyester is a type of polyester fabric that is made from recycled plastic bottles, waste, and post-consumer textile waste. It is a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional polyester, which is made from petroleum-based materials.

 

Recycled polyester has many of the same properties as traditional polyester, including durability, wrinkle resistance, and easy care, but it is considered a more sustainable option because it reduces the amount of plastic waste in the environment. The production of recycled polyester also consumes less energy and produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional polyester.

 

It is used in a variety of applications, including clothing, accessories, home textiles, and packaging. Many companies and fashion brands are using recycled polyester in their products as part of their sustainability efforts.

 

Why Choose Recycled Polyester?

 

There are several reasons to choose recycled polyester:

 

Environmental benefits: Recycled polyester reduces the amount of plastic waste in the environment and conserves natural resources. It also has a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional polyester production, as it consumes less energy and produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

 

Sustainability: The use of recycled polyester helps to create a more sustainable textile industry by closing the loop on waste and reducing the demand for new petroleum-based materials.

 

Durability: Recycled polyester is as durable and long-lasting as traditional polyester, making it a good choice for products that are meant to last.

 

Versatility: Recycled polyester can be used in a variety of applications, including clothing, accessories, home textiles, and packaging, making it a versatile option for a range of products.

 

Cost-effectiveness: While recycled polyester may be slightly more expensive than traditional polyester, it can be more cost-effective in the long run because it reduces the need for new raw materials and conserves energy.

 

By choosing recycled polyester, consumers can support sustainability efforts and reduce the impact of their clothing and other products on the environment.

 

The Future is Recycled Polyester Clothing:

 

The future of recycled polyester clothing looks promising as more and more companies and consumers are becoming aware of the environmental impact of the fashion industry. And NeedlesKart Sourcing working with keen perfection alongside the brands around the world.  There is a growing demand for sustainable and environmentally-friendly clothing, and recycled polyester is becoming a popular choice for its many benefits.

 

The trend towards circular economy and closed-loop systems is also driving the growth of recycled polyester clothing. In these systems, waste is reduced and materials are used and reused in a continuous cycle, leading to a reduction in the need for new raw materials and a decrease in the environmental impact of production. And due to its economic and environmental benefits more and more brands are collaborating with NeedlesKart Sourcing and switching to recycled polyester.

 

Technology for recycling polyester is also advancing, making it easier and more efficient to produce recycled polyester, which will further increase its use in the clothing industry. NeedlesKart Sourcing collaborated with over a hundred factories across the India which is helping us to achieve this goal to make it happen.

 

In the coming years, it is expected that the use of recycled polyester in clothing will continue to grow as consumers become more environmentally conscious and companies strive to meet their sustainability goals. However, there are also challenges that need to be addressed, such as improving the quality and consistency of recycled polyester, and ensuring that the recycling process is accessible and affordable. We at NeedlesKart Sourcing have a vision to make it happen and this won’t be possible without the help of each and every one.

 

Overall, the future of recycled polyester clothing looks positive and its use is expected to increase as a more sustainable alternative to traditional polyester.