We all know the feeling we get when someone compliments what we’re wearing. They give us that nod of approval that makes our stride a strut. We smile, tell them where the pieces are from, and if it’s a dress, assure our compliment giver that it has pockets too.
Few things have a look soaring to the next level of a power ‘fit quite like knowing that it comes from a brand dedicated to helping the planet. The hottest tag isn’t a label, it’s what the label stands for.
Slow and sustainable fashion and beauty choices are often seen in the same light as getting into the motion of going to the gym. Effort, but wonderfully worth it. Although the outcome may be spot on, the effort part is actually much easier than you think.
Here in Cape Town, we’re pretty fortunate to have a fashion scene that not only understands the assignment of giving us deliciously unique looks, but that also really care about the planet.
Here’s where to explore the fashion and beauty world in the kindest way, with 6 local brands that you and the Earth will love:
1.Artclub and Friends

Artclub and Friends earns the chef’s kiss when it comes to simple creativity. Their signature brand name has graced many a classic look, and we’d be severely dungaree depleted in Cape Town without them.

Focused on small batches, making art accessible and handmade creations, Artclub and Friends are transparent, work with only the most ethical factories, and use BCI cotton (Better Cotton Initiative, a non-profit organisation).

2.Chill Cape Town

You probably didn’t realise that something as simple as your skincare could help or harm the planet, but Chill, an incredible Cape Town-based brand, is here to remind us that even our skin counts.

Vegan, sustainably sourced and cruelty-free, Chill offers a tall order of eco-friendly products, so that you can quite literally chill in knowing that your skincare routine is helping the planet.
3.Pina Jewels

Repurposed plastic has never looked quirkier. If you’ve been wondering where those adorable daisy earrings and accessories you’ve likely seen on everyone from the stylish granny at Cavendish Square to your colour-blocking obsessed co-worker come from, it’s all Pina.

Sustainablyy handmade and an ode to the 90s, even these tiny treasures can help save the planet, one daisy at a time!
4.Loskop

Loskop is the Capetonian brand for anyone who loves to feel snug. Sustainable and focused on kindness and positivity, Loskop offers the hug of comfort scented with care for the Earth.

Unisex sets, heavenly hoodies and the sweetest sweat pants are all part of the slow fashion movement, what more could a comfy-loving, conscious Capetonian want?
5.N3YH

If it’s active or loungewear you’re after, N3YH has to be on your sustainable radar. Pioneers of the slow fashion movement, the brand’s pieces will have you treading on the toes of eco-damage whether you choose to lounge or get active.

N3YH’s recent collections are everything those who love print and pattern aesthetics need to get their hands on.
6.Thalia Strates

Ethical handcrafted leather goods may be difficult to cop, but never impossible thanks to artisan creators like Thalia Strates.

With conscious consumption and creation at the forefront of her designs, Thalia Strates creates pieces for the free-spirited minimalist. Skin from animals farmed with “that sole purpose” is not part of the process, and the materials used when from an animal, are all byproducts.
Also read:
5 places to get a massage in and around Cape Town for under R250
Picture: thatasiangirlza