
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Indigenous Named As Top 5 Eco Fashion Designers on Treehugger
Indigenous Named As Top 5 Eco Fashion Designers by "Great American Apparel Diet" announced on Treehugger.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Alpaca Mixed Knit Coat
We've carried our extremely popular Alpaca Mixed Knit Coat for the past 2 seasons, and now it's available for sale online! The Alpaca Mixed Knit Coat features the softest most luxurious alpaca available anywhere, gorgeous knit detailing, a 2 way front zipper and a detailed hood. It's perfect for cool Fall nights, which are just around the corner!

Monday, July 26, 2010
Second Annual Indigenous Fashion Show!
Join us on the Catwalk for a fun evening of music, wine, food, friends and Sonoma County style!
Free Event (suggested donation $10)
A cooperative fundraiser presented by:
...GoLocal, The Leadership Institute for Ecology & Economy, Daily Acts, Transfair USA and Indigenous.
To RSVP please click here!
Free Event (suggested donation $10)
A cooperative fundraiser presented by:
...GoLocal, The Leadership Institute for Ecology & Economy, Daily Acts, Transfair USA and Indigenous.
To RSVP please click here!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Tencel vs Bamboo Fiber: Excellent Write Up on Ecouterre

How Eco-Friendly is Bamboo Fabric, Really?
BAMBOO RAYON
Bamboo stalks contain bast fibers that can be processed into a relatively stiff and rough fabric like flax (linen) or hemp. Most bamboo fabric in the market, however, has a smooth, silky hand that feels similar to rayon—because that’s essentially what it is.
Rayon is a regenerated cellulose fiber, which means that a natural raw material is converted through a chemical process into a fiber that falls into a category between naturals and synthetics. The source of cellulose can be wood, paper, cotton fiber, or in this case bamboo.
Tencel is also a regenerated cellulose fiber, but processed with a nontoxic spinning solvent in a closed-loop system.
The best we have found is called Tencel, a branded name of lyocell fiber. Tencel is also a regenerated cellulose fiber, but processed with a nontoxic spinning solvent in a closed-loop system. The raw material is wood pulp harvested from eucalyptus tree farms, and the pulp is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. It’s possible to use bamboo or other sources of cellulose, but eucalyptus yields the best quality fiber with the least amount of waste. Therefore we think this process is the best available option.
Read the entire article on Ecouterre
Monday, June 14, 2010
Indigenous showcases their fair trade Fall line at Agura Sushi in West Hollywood
Meeting At The Crossroads Of Fashion and Passion
It was fashion, style and attitude—good attitude, and for a good cause—as Indigenous Fair Trade + Organic clothing designers presented their Fall line, celebrated 15 years of business and helped raise awareness for fair trade.
The red carpet celebration, “A Passion for Eco-Fashion,” featured DJ Ambassador Jr., exotic organic foods, and a fashion show of Indigenous creations from Spring to Summer to Fall, presented by Christine LaLonde of Memoire Events. Honoring the highly style conscious and highly socially responsible woman, the Indigenous brand demonstrated the crossroads of Fashion & Passion.
“On this special night we wanted to share awareness that we all can take care of the planet, help preserve time honored traditions, respect workers rights and still dress ourselves in beautiful, luxurious, top-quality fashion,” says Reynolds, ID’s President.

“For 15 years, we’ve been building on fair trade values, elevating artisan communities, and producing premium organic fashion for thoughtful consumers who appreciate how their money impacts people and the planet,” adds Leonard, the CEO.
The event/fashion show, held at Agura Sushi in West Hollywood and organized in part by David Lasky Public Relations & Christine LaLonde, Memoire Events drew a host of celebrities and Hollywood’s elite.
In attendence were Edin Gali who plays, “Kurt” on “Mad Men” and Anya Benton “Nip/Tuck” who dished about their upcoming film, a suspense thriller entitled, “Cornered.” “I play Detective Harper and I’m the comic relief for the film,” Gali said. “And I’m the punky-spunky lead best friend of the girl who gets kidnapped,” Benton added. The film is currently in production and stars Scott Michael Campbell.
The actors were, of course, at the Indigenous event to show support for the clothing company that, “honors both people and the planet.”
Gali continued, “I’m here suppor
ting Indigenous and the founders Matt and Scott. I’ve been a client of theirs for a while. I’m from Bosnia, so anything that involves helping somebody or something, I’m in.” Gali admitted that he’s also an avid recycler.
Actor Israel Korn (who has appeared in “Vampire Diaries”) majored in environmental engineering in college and said, “I support anything that is environmentally and eco-friendly. So if you’re environmentally friendly, you will find me there.”
Also in attendance, Rachel Avalon, a holistic nutritionist and the 2009 Project Green Search Winner and Activist. “I’m a big believer in what fair trade is really about. The more we can support companies that really honor all people the better.”
“For a lot of places in the
world the apparel cycle has led to exploitation, first of the environment, then of the workers,” says Reynolds. “We believe there’s another way, a better way, a mindful way. That message of awareness is what this celebration was all about. Indigenous will continue to serve as a beacon to the fashion world, offering a positive choice for People and the Planet without sacrificing style.’
“We’ve been very successful in guiding our brand to the cross roads where the passion for fair trade values and premium fashion meet,” Leonard agrees. “And our customers in the fashion industry have met us at that cross roads of fashion and passion and demonstrated that they do care about more than just the fashion and fit; they also appreciate knowing their mindful purchase is helping entire communities to elevate and thrive.”

“Friday night was a celebration of 15 years of Indigenous fair trade fashion and recognizing all who have supported the journey. One example is the people and sponsors that made the event possible. Christine LaLonde and David Lasky have been amazing and inspired us in this Passion for Fair Trade fashion collaboration. In addition, we were so blessed to have the support of great fair trade and Eco companies like Guayaki, Alter Eco, Sambazon, Livity, Conscious Living TV, Daily Acts , Eco Fabulous, New Belgium Brewing, Sweet Riot, Go Local BALLE, and Global Action Through Fashion.”
Indigenous Designs Corporation is considered a true pioneer in premium eco-sensitive and socially–conscious apparel. Indigenous has provided ecological and fair-trade quality clothing since 1994, and has established itself as a national clothing brand lab
el, employing over 1,500 highly skilled artisans in knitting groups and cooperatives. The Indigenous collection is available through Garnet Hill, Territory Ahead, REI and over 600 premium specialty boutiques nationwide. For a complete list of retailers visit the website at www.indigenousdesigns.com. For samples, images or more information, editorial media may contact David Lasky, Blast Off Public Relations, at (323) 899 5085 or at daveflick123@aol.com
Check out this Video of the event brought to us by Positive Magazine!
It was fashion, style and attitude—good attitude, and for a good cause—as Indigenous Fair Trade + Organic clothing designers presented their Fall line, celebrated 15 years of business and helped raise awareness for fair trade.

“On this special night we wanted to share awareness that we all can take care of the planet, help preserve time honored traditions, respect workers rights and still dress ourselves in beautiful, luxurious, top-quality fashion,” says Reynolds, ID’s President.

“For 15 years, we’ve been building on fair trade values, elevating artisan communities, and producing premium organic fashion for thoughtful consumers who appreciate how their money impacts people and the planet,” adds Leonard, the CEO.
The event/fashion show, held at Agura Sushi in West Hollywood and organized in part by David Lasky Public Relations & Christine LaLonde, Memoire Events drew a host of celebrities and Hollywood’s elite.
In attendence were Edin Gali who plays, “Kurt” on “Mad Men” and Anya Benton “Nip/Tuck” who dished about their upcoming film, a suspense thriller entitled, “Cornered.” “I play Detective Harper and I’m the comic relief for the film,” Gali said. “And I’m the punky-spunky lead best friend of the girl who gets kidnapped,” Benton added. The film is currently in production and stars Scott Michael Campbell.
The actors were, of course, at the Indigenous event to show support for the clothing company that, “honors both people and the planet.”
Gali continued, “I’m here suppor

Actor Israel Korn (who has appeared in “Vampire Diaries”) majored in environmental engineering in college and said, “I support anything that is environmentally and eco-friendly. So if you’re environmentally friendly, you will find me there.”
Also in attendance, Rachel Avalon, a holistic nutritionist and the 2009 Project Green Search Winner and Activist. “I’m a big believer in what fair trade is really about. The more we can support companies that really honor all people the better.”
“For a lot of places in the

“We’ve been very successful in guiding our brand to the cross roads where the passion for fair trade values and premium fashion meet,” Leonard agrees. “And our customers in the fashion industry have met us at that cross roads of fashion and passion and demonstrated that they do care about more than just the fashion and fit; they also appreciate knowing their mindful purchase is helping entire communities to elevate and thrive.”

“Friday night was a celebration of 15 years of Indigenous fair trade fashion and recognizing all who have supported the journey. One example is the people and sponsors that made the event possible. Christine LaLonde and David Lasky have been amazing and inspired us in this Passion for Fair Trade fashion collaboration. In addition, we were so blessed to have the support of great fair trade and Eco companies like Guayaki, Alter Eco, Sambazon, Livity, Conscious Living TV, Daily Acts , Eco Fabulous, New Belgium Brewing, Sweet Riot, Go Local BALLE, and Global Action Through Fashion.”
Indigenous Designs Corporation is considered a true pioneer in premium eco-sensitive and socially–conscious apparel. Indigenous has provided ecological and fair-trade quality clothing since 1994, and has established itself as a national clothing brand lab

Check out this Video of the event brought to us by Positive Magazine!
Labels:
agura sushi,
fall line,
indigenous
Friday, June 4, 2010
Don't Miss the Passion for Eco-Fashion Night!
A Passion for Eco Fashion, a Passion for Progress!
Indigenous invites you to celebrate 15 years of Fair Trade Fashion.
Friday, June 11 from 7:00 - 11:00 pm at the Agura West Hollywood.
Celebrate the legacy of Indigenous’ Fair Trade Fashion and wish them well on their next 15 years of continued progress and prosperity of a fashion line with a cause.
Guest List Only
This event is open to the first 250 who RSVP
matt@indigenousdesigns.com
Click the flier for more details!
Indigenous invites you to celebrate 15 years of Fair Trade Fashion.
Friday, June 11 from 7:00 - 11:00 pm at the Agura West Hollywood.
Celebrate the legacy of Indigenous’ Fair Trade Fashion and wish them well on their next 15 years of continued progress and prosperity of a fashion line with a cause.
Guest List Only
This event is open to the first 250 who RSVP
matt@indigenousdesigns.com
Click the flier for more details!

Thursday, May 6, 2010
BAREing It All:: Behind the Label - Berkeley, CA
Last Thursday night in Westminster House South, BARE Magazine and Feel Good hosted the fashion panel, BAREing It All: Behind the Label. The panel discussion was centered around the labor practices in the apparel industry and what steps are being taken by various companies to combat these unethical practices. Feel Good was grilling up sandwiches and serving Coke Zero to benefit their mission to end world hunger while attendees engaged in a guided discussion that brought to the surface ethical issues surrounding clothing choices and how to make conscious decisions about our clothing. Guests were shown the documentary, "Behind the Swoosh," which documented Jim Keady's trip to Indonesia to understand the living conditions of those who work for just above a dollar per day at Nike's factory.


Guests watched Jim Keady's "Behind the Swoosh" documentary.
From left: BARE Events Coordinator Seika Iwao, Indigenous Designs' Matt Reynolds, and Eco Citizen's Joslin Van Arsdale.
After the short film, panelists Matt Reynolds of Indigenous Designs and Joslin Van Arsdale of Eco Citizen answered questions about how their businesses have thrived off of the basis of fair trade. Indigenous Designs uses a vertical integration business model to give artisans from villages in South America the opportunity to make money from their skills. Reynolds emphasized that one of the most important parts about the fair trade movement is that people understand what it actually is. Fair trade is not equivalent to free trade or organic. Fair trade involves fair compensation for those who produce goods that are sold on a mass scale. Van Arsdale seemed optimistic about her average customer who she says is interested in knowing where their clothing is coming from. Her Russian Hill boutique was inspired by her desire to become a part of the fair trade system and support brands that stimulate indigenous economies and skilled artisans.
The fair trade movement is still small but is sure to grow over the next decade or so. Reynolds and Van Arsdale agree that it is important that fair trade garments must be of equal or better quality than what is currently popular in the clothing market. Reynolds believes that for this socially conscious trend to truly infiltrate the mainstream, the product must have superior quality, be reasonably priced for consumers, and illicit an emotional response from the average customer. Both panelists envision a world in the near future where it is more common than not for a brand to engage in practices of fair trade.

Reynolds and Van Arsdale were thanked by BARE staff for participating in the panel.

From left: Iwao, Reynolds, and Van Arsdale. All photography by Albert Treat.
Jordan Silver
Creative Director
BARE Blog


Guests watched Jim Keady's "Behind the Swoosh" documentary.
From left: BARE Events Coordinator Seika Iwao, Indigenous Designs' Matt Reynolds, and Eco Citizen's Joslin Van Arsdale.
After the short film, panelists Matt Reynolds of Indigenous Designs and Joslin Van Arsdale of Eco Citizen answered questions about how their businesses have thrived off of the basis of fair trade. Indigenous Designs uses a vertical integration business model to give artisans from villages in South America the opportunity to make money from their skills. Reynolds emphasized that one of the most important parts about the fair trade movement is that people understand what it actually is. Fair trade is not equivalent to free trade or organic. Fair trade involves fair compensation for those who produce goods that are sold on a mass scale. Van Arsdale seemed optimistic about her average customer who she says is interested in knowing where their clothing is coming from. Her Russian Hill boutique was inspired by her desire to become a part of the fair trade system and support brands that stimulate indigenous economies and skilled artisans.
The fair trade movement is still small but is sure to grow over the next decade or so. Reynolds and Van Arsdale agree that it is important that fair trade garments must be of equal or better quality than what is currently popular in the clothing market. Reynolds believes that for this socially conscious trend to truly infiltrate the mainstream, the product must have superior quality, be reasonably priced for consumers, and illicit an emotional response from the average customer. Both panelists envision a world in the near future where it is more common than not for a brand to engage in practices of fair trade.

Reynolds and Van Arsdale were thanked by BARE staff for participating in the panel.

From left: Iwao, Reynolds, and Van Arsdale. All photography by Albert Treat.
Jordan Silver
Creative Director
BARE Blog
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)