SUSTAINABILITY

We know that it is nearly impossible to be 100% sustainable in every area, but it's important to us to sell brands who are actively considering their impact on the planet. We select brands who meet as many of the following sustainability standards as possible:

- Use local manufacturing, which both decreases carbon emissions and supports local communities.

- Use circular or closed loop manufacturing, for example by using recycled fabrics or closed loop fabrics such as Tencel and organic bamboo. Also brands who consider the end of life ramifications of their own garments, for example by ensuring that they are manufactured using as many natural and biodegradable fabrics as possible, and in addition may run repair/recycle/take back schemes.

- Use sustainable fabrics, particularly those that are accredited by organisations including OEKO-TEX and GOTS. All cotton sold on another now is 100% organic, or recycled.

- Consider carefully their use of plastic based materials, and only use them in a responsible way. for example by using recycled PET, or non toxic PU.

-Do not use polluting or toxic chemicals. Choose un-dyed fabric or natural, eco dyes instead of chemical based ones.

- Minimise water waste, for example by using natural and un-dyed or direct print technology instead of traditional dyeing methods, or by ensuring that their suppliers re-use water where possible .

- Employs and supports low impact manufacturing processes, including energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, for example by choosing factories who have strict controls on emissions, use solar power, and dispose of waste products in clean, safe and environmentally friendly ways.

- Design and construct their products well, so that they are durable and long lasting. By shifting away from the disposable nature of fast fashion, they promote a more sustainable and responsible approach to clothing production and consumption.

- Use zero waste pattern cutting.

The majority of our brands choose to work in a season-less or slow fashion way, and those that do work in seasons design in a conscious way, crafting products that are made to last and be loved.

Each brand's sustainable working practices can be found on their ethics & sustainability page, under the PLANET section, along with any additional sustainability accreditations/certificates and details of sustainability charities they may choose to work with.    

MATERIALS AND FABRICS

We choose to sell products made from sustainably and responsibly produced fabrics including;

- 100% organic cotton (GOTS/OEKO)

- Recycled & upcycled fabrics/yarns

- Eco fabrics such as lyocell/tencel, linen, hemp, bamboo, modal, cupro, ecovero/lenzing

- Silicone or plant-based based vegan leather

Bio degradable elastic, corozo non-plastic buttons

We do sell a percentage of recycled polyester (PET) and econyl, because this helps prevent these materials going into landfill, but we are aware that this is not the only solution to the problem.

-We also sell a carefully selected amount of responsibly produced footwear that is made from certified non toxic PU.

Polyurethane is a polymer formed by the reaction of isocyanates and polyols. There are environmental benefits to this material, which may arguably outweigh its environmental implications, including its ability to be recycled & durability. Polyurethanes are non-toxic to the environment as they break down, and do not contain BPA or other chemicals which can interfere with endocrine systems

We choose not to sell garments made from:

- Silk, peace silk

- Leather or suede

- Fur, feathers or exotic animal skin

- Non organic cotton

At this time we also choose not to sell wool, although we may choose to sell recycled wool or ethical wool in the future (as we find out more about the processes involved)

Information about which fabrics each brand uses can be found on their ethics & sustainability page, under MATERIALS & FABRICS. Individual fabric composition is detailed on product descriptions.

ETHICAL WORKING PRACTICES & STANDARDS

Our brands share our desire for a better world. They care about the planet, but they also care about the people who produce their clothes.

Another Now proudly sells brands who support ethical, fair, safe and hygienic working conditions, ensure their workers are paid a living wage, and who provide clear and transparent information on their supply chain.

As a minimum, they adhere to the Declaration of the International Labor Organization (ILO):

1. Freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining.

2. The elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour.

3. The effective abolition of child labour.

4. The elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation.

5. A safe and healthy working environment.

We display brands ethical working practices on their ethics & sustainability page, under the PEOPLE section, along with any additional ethical standards accreditations/certificates and details of charities they may work with.

ANIMAL WELFARE

Our brands care about the environment, so it naturally makes sense that they care about the impact their production may have on animal welfare.

Organic farming is proven to support biodiversity and wildlife, and protect animal welfare. All the brands we sell use 100% organic cotton (unless its recycled).

None of our brands use fur, angora, or “exotic” animal skin, or use ‘non-mulesing’ wool.

At this time Another Now chooses to sell vegan products only. We choose never to sell leather/suede, but in the future we may decide to stock products made from recycled wool, or a small amount of products made from wool which can be traced back to an ethical and cruelty free supplier.

We don't require our brands to only produce vegan products themselves, but we choose to sell only their vegan pieces - and we still need to feel confident that any products they do make from animal materials, are not produced in ways which we would fundamentally disagree with.

Details around each brand's animal policies and standards can be found on their ethics & sustainability page, under the ANIMALS section.

PRICING

We know that sustainable fashion often has a higher price tag. This is due to many factors, such as:

- Prioritising fair wages, safe working conditions, and workers' rights.

- Using eco-friendly fabrics such as organic cotton, hemp, or recycled materials. These materials are generally more expensive to produce or source than conventional fabrics like polyester or non-organic cotton.

- Sustainable brands often operate on a smaller scale compared to fast fashion brands. Limited production quantities can drive up the costs of materials and manufacturing.

- Sustainable fashion often emphasises durability and longevity, focusing on craftsmanship and creating timeless designs and high-quality garments that can withstand the test of time.

- Implementing traceability systems and maintaining transparent supply chains often requires additional resources and can increase costs.

It's worth noting that whilst sustainable fashion may be more expensive upfront, it can provide long-term value for money. However, we know that it isn't always easy, or at times affordable to reduce our environmental impact by buying sustainable, (even if we really want to). We are committed to doing our best to provide affordable sustainable fashion, and as we grow, this will be one of our key areas of focus. As sustainability practices become more widespread we also hope the prices of sustainable fashion may become more competitive overall.