With the wide range of ethical ready-to-wear on offer, it can sometimes be hard to choose. To help you make the right choice, we previously shared a top 18 list of ethical clothing. But once you’ve made your purchase, the question of care arises. Meanwhile Boutique shares all its tips for making your ethical wardrobe last as long as possible.
Ethical ready-to-wear: The making
Beyond the 18 products featured in our previous article, Meanwhile Boutique offers a selection of committed brands showcasing a wide range of colours, materials and craftsmanship in the world of ethical ready-to-wear.
Ethical ready-to-wear: Craftsmanship, a key element in garment design
In a world where authenticity and craftsmanship are making a comeback, ethical ready-to-wear is much more than just clothing. It tells a story—that of skilled hands transforming fine materials into wearable works of art.
Many ancient and traditional techniques are being revitalised in ready-to-wear. Classic styling methods such as embroidery and weaving are being embraced by brands in the production of their ethical clothing. Other more innovative methods, such as upcycling, are also emerging.
Ethical ready-to-wear: The materials used
A wide range of materials can be used to create unique, authentic pieces. The range of fabrics available for creating extraordinary, eco-friendly results is endless, from organic cotton and linen to recycled materials. In addition to playing with colour to offer a greater variety of styles, designers also experiment with different textures and even mix them together.
The unique materials offered by the Meanwhile Boutique collective:
- Organic cotton
- Linen
- Hemp
- Jute
- Cork
- Pyratex (seaweed and wood fibres)
- Ramie (a plant fibre derived from nettles)
- Bamboo
Ethical ready-to-wear: Why is care important?
Even though we may be tempted by fast fashion and buying new clothes every few weeks, we want to join the fight against overconsumption. This is why investing in beautiful ethical and eco-responsible clothing is important. But above all, taking care of its maintenance is essential.
Proper care helps to:
- Prolong the life of your clothes
- Preserve their original appearance (feel, colour and shape)
- Reduce their environmental impact, as you will replace them less often
Ethical ready-to-wear care: Decoding the labels
Some materials require specific cleaning. Generally, the appropriate washing method is indicated on the garment’s label. To help you avoid confusion between the different symbols, we have provided a brief summary.
Ethical ready-to-wear care: The best products to use
Some products are too harsh for your clothes and should be avoided. In general, we use too many detergents and chemicals to remove stains and odours.
When choosing a detergent or stain remover:
- The ingredients: choose plant-based, hypoallergenic, lightly scented formulas
- The cleaning power: opt for a gentle but effective product
- The suitability for the fabric: choose one designed for delicate or coloured textiles
- The labels: the ISO 9001 label certifies dermatological testing and environmental compliance
Meanwhile Boutique offers brands of ethical and eco-responsible care products.
ORINKO – the reusable eco-friendly detergent
The Orinko brand offers a detergent made with magnesium pellets that react naturally with water. They raise the pH, dissolve grease, break down impurities and neutralise odours without chemicals.
Orinko detergent – €29.99
Ethical ready-to-wear care: Proper cleaning
Your ethical ready-to-wear requires gentle cleaning in accordance with the washing instructions. Each technique depends on the garment’s material.
Jeans
Jeans can be machine-washed, but to preserve their texture, it is best to wash them inside out on a delicate cycle. A splash of vinegar helps set the colours.
Knitted fabrics
For garments made from cotton or linen, machine-wash at a maximum of 30–40°C. For wool or cashmere, choose hand washing. Always dry flat.
Satin
Hand washing is ideal. Avoid wringing satin and iron it at a low temperature with a protective cloth.
Storing your ethical ready-to-wear
To ensure a long life, hang your garments on suitable hangers. Use a storage bag for satin and a closed wardrobe away from light. Store in a well-ventilated room.
Ethical ready-to-wear care: What to avoid
- Avoid tumble dryers
- Avoid bleach and choose a gentle detergent
- Do not store in a damp room
The environmental aspect
Taking care of your ethical ready-to-wear is also an environmentally friendly act. You reduce your consumption and waste. This goes hand in hand with the ethics surrounding its production: a responsibly designed product deserves equally responsible use.
Explore our collection of ethical fashion designed to last and made to be stylish and authentic while respecting the environment and traditional craftsmanship.
Article written by Camille Quéval
Sources:
https://www.janedeboy.com/guides/entretenir-ses-vetements-g42.aspx?srsltid=AfmBOorSE80zFqT2qtQZYb5rQMajv6MKJXzhBozXtAA0BT-SymfKb0Td
https://vigour-group.com/fr/insights/8-meilleurs-detergents-doux-pour-vetements-des-solutions-de-nettoyage-douces-et-efficaces/
