Our Approach To Eco Lingerie and Ethical Fabrics

Our Approach To Eco Lingerie and Ethical Fabrics

Silk has always played a major role in our ranges but we are slowly exploring new options that are environmentally friendly and cruelty free, whilst also offering the same level of luxury. Our aim has always been to produce our collections as ethically as possible, but we have found it difficult to source the right fabrics. We are excited to introduce you to our current collections of ethical lingerie and to explain to you how these fabrics are made differently compared to less ethical alternatives.

Ava Organic Black Bamboo and Lace Set by Ayten Gasson

Why is bamboo fabric ethical and what are its properties?

We have only recently discovered the joys of working with bamboo fabrics. Our most recent find is a beautifully soft Organic Bamboo Jersey, which we have used in creating our Ava range. Alongside its breathable attribute, bamboo fabric bears the benefits of being extremely absorbent and durable. 

Our research has shown us that there are many ways to produce bamboo fabric. Some are ethical, but some are incredibly wasteful and harmful to the environment. Cheaper bamboo can also cause hazards to the workers involved in the process, as they could be exposed to toxic chemicals.

We have managed to source an organic bamboo fabric that is of the highest quality and environmentally sound. Chemical pesticides have not been used and little water is needed in the growing of the plant. The way the bamboo has been processed is also ethical. The wood fibres of the bamboo trunk are crushed and soaked in a natural enzyme solution, then mechanically combed out and spun into yarn. This yarn is then woven into fabric.

Wings Eco Viscose Bra and Knicker Set by Ayten Gasson

What is Eco Viscose and how is it sustainable?

We have also integrated ethically produced Eco Viscose into our garments, which we have used in the creation of our Wings range. Viscose has the benefits of being incredibly soft and light on the skin, whilst retaining its strength and breathability. These properties mean that Viscose is a great fabric to use against the skin.

When looking into the production of Viscose, we found that the processes used can be highly unethical and extremely damaging to the environment. Viscose is made in much the same way as bamboo fabric, by dissolving the wood pulp from trees in a chemical solution to produce a pulpy substance. This is then spun into fibres that can be developed into threads. However, the soaking process uses large amounts of highly toxic chemicals, which can be life-threatening for the workers involved.

In order to combat this, we have found a responsibly sourced alternative to Viscose called EcoVero. This is produced by using wood and pulp derived from responsibly managed forests - and the majority of chemicals used in the soaking process are recovered and reused. The manufacturing process of EcoVero generates up to 50% lower emissions and water impact compared to generic Viscose.

Opal Peace Silk Knicker by Ayten Gasson

How does Peace Silk differ to regular Silk?

We are proud to say that the silk used in our Opal range is actually an organic Peace silk. Peace silk, also known as Ahimsa, is considered to be warmer and softer than regular silk, as the fabric is spun as a fibre rather than as a thread. Peace silk has the added benefit of being hypoallergenic and possesses temperature regulating properties.

In the production of regular silk, the intact cocoons of silkworms are boiled with the silkworm still inside. The silk strand from the cocoon is then unravelled. This is done to ensure that the silk fibres do not break. However, this does mean that the silkworm is killed in the process.

Peace silk, on the other hand, is derived from the empty cocoons of the silkworms after they have hatched and emerged. These empty cocoons are then boiled and the silk fibre is collected and spun to form the fabric. Although this approach is more costly and means that an extra ten days are spent on the production process, it is cruelty-free and the labour-intensive process produces more employment opportunities in the industry.

Why should we consider the use of Organic Cotton?

Our Eva range is constructed using a 100% Organic Cotton Pointelle Jersey fabric, one of the most sustainable fabrics available. With its strong and soft properties, organic cotton is the perfect option for keeping you cosy and comfortable. It also has the added benefits of being breathable and hypoallergenic, as there are no chemical preservations. This makes it perfect for those with sensitive skin.

It’s important to us to use organic cotton in our range, as the environmental impact of conventional cotton can be devastating. Not only does cotton need extremely large amounts of water to grow, but the production of conventional cotton uses 16% of the world’s insecticides and 7% of pesticides. All this can be detrimental to workers’ health.

The organic cotton that we use is GOTS-certified, meaning that the fabric must contain at least 95% organic fibre, must not be treated with toxic substances, and must be produced in a mill that enforces strict social and environmental standards. Organic cotton also uses a fraction of the water consumption compared to that of conventional cotton. Alongside the environmental benefits and ethical standards of this fabric, it is also better for our customers, as you won’t be exposing your skin to any toxins!

If you ever have any questions regarding our fabrics or any suggestions on how we can be more ethical please get in touch.