As the fashion industry continues to evolve, a resounding call for sustainability and ethical practices has emerged. The rise of sustainable fashion has captured the hearts of fashion enthusiasts worldwide, urging both designers and consumers to make eco-friendly choices. One such area that has seen a surge in conscious decisions is the world of custom hoodies.
The Rise of Sustainable Fashion
Over the past decade, sustainable fashion has evolved from being a niche concept to a global movement. With increasing awareness of the environmental and social impacts of fast fashion, more fashion enthusiasts are seeking sustainable alternatives.
We are now conscious of the materials used in their clothing and the ethical practices employed in the production process. This shift in consumer behavior has prompted fashion brands to reevaluate their approaches and adopt sustainable practices.
Eco-Conscious Design and Customisation
Designing sustainable custom hoodies goes beyond selecting eco-friendly materials and printing techniques. Conscious design and customisation involve creating pieces that are timeless, versatile, and have a long-lasting appeal.
Fashion enthusiasts can opt for classic and minimalistic designs that transcend seasonal trends, ensuring that their custom hoodies remain stylish and wearable for years to come. By investing in high-quality, durable materials and craftsmanship, consumers can reduce the need for frequent replacements and minimise fashion waste.
personalisation is a key aspect of custom hoodies, allowing individuals to express their unique style and personality. Eco-conscious customisation involves thoughtful design choices that align with sustainable values.
For example, incorporating positive messages or artwork that promotes environmental awareness can inspire meaningful conversations and social change.
Understanding Sustainable Materials: Gildan and AS Colour
Two prominent brands that offer sustainable choices for custom hoodies and t-shirts are Gildan and AS Colour. We recommend checking PrintLocker out, they stock both brands online so you can choose which type of fit you prefer before designing your custom hoodie.
Let’s delve into the sustainable materials and practices offered by these brands, which have garnered attention from fashion enthusiasts seeking eco-friendly options.
Gildan
While Gildan offers a vast selection of products, they have also been taking significant steps towards sustainability.
Organic Cotton: Gildan has embraced organic cotton as one of its sustainable materials. Organic cotton is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, which reduces its impact on the environment and promotes healthier soil and water resources.
By choosing organic cotton for their products, including t-shirts, Gildan supports more sustainable agricultural practices and minimises the environmental impact of their clothing.
Responsible Manufacturing: Gildan has implemented responsible manufacturing practices to reduce its carbon footprint. The company has invested in more energy-efficient technologies and has taken measures to reduce water consumption during the production process. By adopting these eco-conscious practices, Gildan demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Certifications: Gildan holds several certifications that attest to its sustainable practices. Notably, the company has received the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification, which guarantees that their organic cotton products meet strict environmental and social criteria.
Additionally, Gildan has obtained certifications such as OEKO-TEX and WRAP (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production), which further underline its commitment to ethical and sustainable manufacturing processes.
AS Colour
While not solely a sustainable brand, AS Colour places emphasis on providing ethically-made and durable garments, which aligns with sustainable principles.
a. Responsible Sourcing
AS Colour prioritizes responsible sourcing of materials, ensuring that their products are made from high-quality fabrics. While not exclusively organic, they use cotton that adheres to international ethical guidelines and standards. By carefully selecting materials and suppliers, AS Colour aims to reduce the environmental impact of its products.
b. Ethical Manufacturing
AS Colour is committed to ethical manufacturing practices, ensuring fair treatment and safe working conditions for its workers. By maintaining transparency in their supply chain, the brand aims to support the well-being of those involved in the production process.
c. Long-Lasting Designs
AS Colour’s focus on creating durable and timeless apparel encourages consumers to make sustainable choices. By producing high-quality blank garments that withstand the test of time, the brand discourages fast fashion trends and promotes a more conscious approach to consumption.
While both Gildan and AS Colour offer sustainable options, it is essential for fashion enthusiasts to consider other aspects beyond materials. Sustainable fashion also encompasses durability, long-lasting designs, and ethical manufacturing practices.
By choosing products from brands like Gildan and AS Colour, you can take a step towards supporting more responsible and eco-friendly choices in their wardrobe. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the sustainable efforts of these brands should be continuously monitored and improved upon as they strive to make a positive impact on the environment and the fashion industry as a whole.
Sustainable Direct-to-Garment Printing vs Screen Printing
When it comes to printing designs on custom hoodies, direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is a sustainable and eco-friendly technique gaining popularity. DTG printing utilizes specialized inkjet printers that apply water-based inks directly onto the fabric, creating vibrant and detailed designs. Unlike traditional screen printing, DTG printing does not require the creation of screens or the use of excessive chemicals, making it a more sustainable option.
DTG printing allows for precise color reproduction and enables fashion enthusiasts to bring their creative designs to life without compromising on environmental considerations.
Water-based inks used in DTG printing are non-toxic and biodegradable, ensuring minimal harm to the environment and reducing the carbon footprint of custom hoodie production.
While DTG printing is an eco-friendly choice, screen printing can also be carried out sustainably with mindful practices. To minimise the environmental impact, screen printers can opt for water-based inks instead of traditional plastisol inks. Water-based inks do not contain harmful chemicals or PVC, making them a greener alternative.
Screen printers can also prioritize waste reduction by using eco-friendly cleaning solutions and recycling screens whenever possible. Additionally, choosing to work with sustainable fabric providers and promoting conscious design principles can further enhance the overall sustainability of screen-printed custom hoodies.
Final Thoughts
As we become more supportive of slow fashion brands, we hold the power to drive change in the industry. Embracing sustainable custom hoodies allows us to express our unique style while respecting the planet and its resources.
By understanding the rise of sustainable fashion, choosing eco-friendly materials, supporting ethical practices, and being mindful of the environmental impact of our choices, we can create a fashion-forward future that celebrates both personal expression and sustainability.
Also read: Why Every Fashionista Needs at Least One Blank Hoodie in Their Wardrobe
