AS A NEW DESIGNER, IT WAS CHALLENGING TO NAVIGATE THE COMPLEXITIES OF THE FASHION INDUSTRY, PARTICULARLY THE GROWING CONCERNS OF UNREGULATED SUB-CONTRACTING, HARMFUL CHEMICALS, FAST FASHION OVERPRODUCTION, AND IMPROPER DISPOSAL. HOWEVER, THROUGH THE ENLIGHTENING READINGS OF "FASHIONOPOLIS" BY DANA THOMAS AND "THE PSYCHOLOGY OF FASHION" BY CAROLYN MAIR A SENSE OF HOPE BEGAN TO EMERGE. THE UNDERSTANDING OF THESE CHALLENGES AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS SERVES AS A DRIVING FORCE TO IMPLEMENT SUSTAINABLE AND ETHICAL PRACTICES IN MY DESIGN JOURNEY. IT IS THROUGH EDUCATION, AWARENESS, AND A COLLECTIVE COMMITMENT TO CHANGE THAT THE INDUSTRY CAN PROGRESS TOWARDS A MORE RESPONSIBLE AND MINDFUL FUTURE.

IN LINE WITH THIS, AND DR. HEIDI YELLEN’S RESEARCH, ORGANIC COTTON HAS BECOME ONE OF THE TOP THREE DESIRED FABRICS ON OUR MATERIALS LIST. USING AN AG- ENVIRO MACHINE, A FREQUENCY OF 100 ANGSTROM (M) IS REGISTERED BY BOTH ORGANIC COTTON AND THE HUMAN BODY, WHILE STANDARD BLEACHED COTTON MEASURED AT 40. LINEN AND WOOL COMES IN AT A WHOPPING 5000, UNDERSCORING THE COMPATIBILITY WITH OUR WELLBEING. THIS REALIZATION HAS FURTHER EMPHASIZED THE IMPORTANCE OF INCORPORATING ORGANIC MATERIALS INTO THE FASHION INDUSTRY TO MINIMIZE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND PROMOTE A MORE ETHICAL APPROACH TO PRODUCTION.

&How

At Constantine apparel, sustainability is a core pillar in our foundation, alongside affordability and creativity. One way we ensure all three pillars are met is by taking a hands-on approach, from fabric sourcing to pattern making, cutting, and sewing, we handle every aspect of the production process ourselves. This approach allows us to maintain a high standard of quality, while also actively monitoring the sustainability of our materials and processes. In fact, every piece we create has been personally worked on, reflecting our dedication to crafting garments that are not only stylish and affordable but also environmentally conscious and personable. We are constantly inspired by iconic staples and are committed to creating better building blocks within the streetwear industry. Our vision is to evolve alongside our consumers, elevating our designs and products as we all grow and mature together. We believe that by embracing this mindset, we can continue to push the boundaries of streetwear, offering sophisticated and versatile pieces that resonate with individuals at every stage of their lives. Join us as we embark on this journey of growth and development, shaping the future of streetwear.