At Winsome Studios, the journey of bringing you the finest in fashion isn't just about the finished product—it's about every thread, every fiber, and every decision along the way. From the very beginning, we've prioritized transparency in managing our supply chain. Today, we're taking you on a behind-the-scenes tour of our fabric selection process, from our early days working with SwatchOn to our current endeavors and everything in between.
Sampling and Exploration:
Our quest for the perfect fabrics led us to SwatchOn, a reputable fabric supplier in South Korea. Here, we embarked on a sampling odyssey, exploring over 300 fabrics, from luxurious bamboo to a spectrum of cotton blends. This was no small feat, but it was essential to truly understand the materials at our disposal.
Months were devoted to sampling and testing these fabrics for durability, comfort, and sustainability. We needed to know how each fabric would feel against your skin, how it would hold up over time, and most importantly, how it aligned with our commitment to sustainability.
Commitment to Sustainability:
In July of 2022, we placed our first bulk fabric order. It was a significant step, but as we delved deeper into the intricacies of the fashion industry, it became evident that we needed to prioritize sustainability even further. High import costs, logistical issues and the unavailability of a product Life Cycle Assessment became prominent concerns, leading us to reevaluate our sourcing strategy.
Local Sourcing:
This reevaluation brought us to the concept of local sourcing. We believe that by working with local suppliers, we can reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to the growth of our local community. It was a decision that aligned with our commitment to sustainable practices, and it's a journey we're excited to continue.
We're working closely with our current fabric supplier and other partners to guarantee that every aspect of our production respects labor standards, and we'll continue to do so as we expand.
Organic Cotton vs. Synthetic Blends:
In our quest for sustainable fabric, we've been champions of organic cotton. Organic cotton is grown without chemical fertilizers, pesticides or GMOs, reducing the ecological impact and promoting healthier farming practices. This method of cultivation requires half as much water as conventional cotton and respects ecosystems and biodiversity. The organic nature of the cotton ensures a chemical-free and hypoallergenic material, appealing to those with sensitive skin. Overall, Organic Cotton French Terry combines comfort, sustainability, and versatility in one fabric.
Weight and Thread Count:
Understanding the weight and thread count of fabrics is crucial for creating season-appropriate garments. For summer, we opt for lighter, breathable fabrics, while for winter, heavier and more insulating materials take precedence. This attention to detail ensures our clothing is both stylish and comfortable year-round.
Dying and Minimizing Waste:
The dying process is a critical aspect of fabric preparation. It's essential to not only create vibrant and lasting colors but also to minimize waste. By employing responsible dying techniques and practices, we aim to reduce our environmental impact while bringing you the most striking, eco-conscious styles. Our eco-friendly inks are free of toxins and 100% biodegradable.
In the world of fashion, it's easy to focus solely on the end product—the clothing that graces the runway or fills our wardrobes. But the truth is, every Winsome Studios garment is the result of a thoughtful, meticulous journey. Our commitment to sustainability isn't a marketing strategy; it's a core value that influences every decision we make, from the fabrics we choose to the partners we work with.
We hope this candid look behind the scenes helps you understand the dedication that goes into each piece of clothing we create. Our journey doesn't end here; it's an ongoing pursuit of a more sustainable, stylish future. Thank you for joining us on this adventure.