In this newsletter I speak about my latest creation: handcrafted keychains and bookmarks made from repurposed canvas, all painted by me with the first sustainable colours I could find many years ago. Inspired by a deep commitment to sustainability and a desire to combat waste in the fashion industry, I poured my heart and soul into every stitch and stroke, creating pieces that not only tell a story but also contribute to a brighter, greener future.
But behind every creation lies a story, and I want to take a moment to share mine with you.
Just last year, fashion was nothing more to me than a shallow pursuit, driven by big brands and inaccessible to anyone outside elite circles. It wasn't until I had the privilege of meeting some remarkable fashion designers that my eyes were opened to the true depth and beauty of this world.
In a world where waste in the fashion industry is reaching alarming levels, I felt compelled to take action. Every second, the equivalent of a rubbish truck load of clothes is burnt or buried in landfill, and I refuse to be part of that cycle. The fashion industry's waste problem is staggering, with an estimated 92 million tons of textile waste generated annually. But I'm not just another statistic. I'm part of a movement towards a more sustainable future, one keychain and bookmark at a time. Luxury brands burning unsold stock may be the norm, but I like to think that I’m rewriting the script with my little actions.
As consumers, you have the power to drive change. By supporting brands like mine, you're not just purchasing a product; you're investing in a vision of a better, more sustainable future. Together, we can make a difference.
So, what can you do to help? It's simple:
- Know the brands you buy from and support those committed to sustainability.
- Embrace the five R's of fashion: reduce, reuse, repair, recycle, and rethink.
- Consider shopping second-hand or renting for your next event.
- Host or attend clothes swaps to give old garments new life. I collab with my artist friend Tereza every 2 months, click here to know more!
- And most importantly, ask yourself "What are the alternatives?" before discarding used clothing.
My keychains and bookmarks are more than just accessories; they're symbols of hope, reminders that change is possible.
As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible individuals who have crossed my path and enriched my life. Together, we are redefining what it means to be a part of the fashion world, one sustainable creation at a time. One of the first designers who truly inspired me was Laura Pino of LRPN. From the moment we met in London through a shared connection, I was captivated by her vision. LRPN isn't just a luxury leather accessories brand; it's a reflection of a cultural moment and a commitment to empowering women through innovative design. Additionally, Laura's personal journey has been one of courage and resilience. She has faced and overcome challenges, including a battle with cancer, which only deepens my admiration for her. Her strength and determination are an inspiration to us all.
Then there's Nathan Slate, an artist whose work transcends fashion. Nathan's journey from dressing A-list celebrities to focusing on ceramics and interior design resonated deeply with me. His dedication to creating one-of-a-kind pieces that breathe life into spaces is nothing short of inspiring.
And of course, I can't forget Diana Quintal, Henrique Teixeira, and Tereza Sýkorová, whose creativity and passion for slow fashion left an indelible mark on me. From Diana and Henrique's invaluable assistance in bringing my vision to life to Tereza's artistic exploration of textiles, they have all played a pivotal role in shaping my perspective on the fashion industry.
Tereza isn't just an incredibly talented artist; she's also a true friend and kindred spirit. From the moment we met, we bonded over our shared passion for nature and our mutual commitment to creating art that reflects our values and concerns. Together, Tereza and I have embarked on numerous collaborations and projects, each one fuelled by our shared creativity and dedication. Whether we're brainstorming ideas, working on designs, or simply sharing a quiet moment of reflection, I am constantly amazed by her talent and vision. Tezz -the way I call her! Has been there for me in ways that words cannot fully express. As fellow artists, we understand the challenges and uncertainties of pursuing our passion, and Tereza's unwavering support and encouragement have been a lifeline for me, especially during my time on the island.
She was there (and her sewing machine!) when I embarked on a journey to create something of my own: sustainable keychains and bookmarks made from recycled canvas. These pieces are more than just accessories; they're symbols of hope and change in an industry plagued by waste and excess.
Before I leave to what you are doing, I just wanted to share a few words about the show we made this month in Jardim Municipal: being surrounded by so many people and feeling the love bomb was beyond words. I’m immensely grateful to have shared the stage with such talented artists and an amazing technical team.
Though there’s always room for improvement, the beauty of what we created was simply unbelievable. Bringing “Fluttering Colours” to life took months of dedication, from writing the story to crafting the melody. It was a journey filled with travel, hiking, isolation, and countless challenges. But in those 25 minutes on stage, it felt like I had to prove something to the world, and despite the pressures and doubts, seeing the results and witnessing the joy it brought to people’s faces made it all worth it. There were days when everything seemed to collapse, and others where it soared towards the light. It was a rollercoaster of emotions, but through it all, the journey was worth it.
This may have been the first show for “Fluttering Colours” but it’s just the beginning of many more to come. The story has finally seen the light, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s next! Onto the next chapter now.
In celebration of this journey and the launch of our sustainable keychains, I'm offering a special test price for a limited series. Simply DM me on Instagram and text the word "ECOBSP" and I'll send you a link where you can purchase these handcrafted keychains at the special launch price. Be quick because there are only 50 made by hand keychains available!
Thank you for being part of this journey with me.
B.