Sustainable style & vegan ventures with UMASAN

Altruism is well and truly on trend, but unlike most fashion trends, it’s vital for humane clothing to become the norm, rather than a fleeting fashion statement. We know that in time, crop tops and jumpsuits will make us shudder with “what were we thinking?” But animal friendly, eco-friendly and sustainable fashion ought to be here to stay.

This notion has been spurred on by a multitude of things, namely a renewed level of media coverage, but to a huge extent the budding vegan brands that have been cropping up over the past twenty years (long time frame for fashion, short for changing the world) have been slowly but surely making their mark on luxury shoppers from around the globe. Gone are the days of itchy hemp horrors and sweaty plastic profanities… welcome to the new world of gorgeous, edgy and totally desirable pieces.

UMASAN have really taken eco-friendly innovation to the next level. Their collections are made from bio fibres, extracted from plants, soy, trees, seaweed and even wood pulp. These finely spun ingredients are woven together to create timeless pieces perfect for every season transition, but they also combine to do your skin some good. Sensitive fibres that care for your skin whilst you wear it.

As for the collections themselves, there is so much to be said. Modern, effortless and all of their pieces exude a sense of tranquillity. Perhaps that’s the notion that flies alongside a totally guilt-free outfit, but their elegant tailoring, neutral tones and demure outlines make UMASAN a truly stunning and authentic luxury brand, that has managed to earn a place amongst some of the top brands worldwide.

What we love is that the vegan factor is only a part of the equation resulting in UMASAN’s look. Their latest and most monochromatic collection (pictured above) stands powerfully on its own, without using the eco-friendly niche as a crutch; featuring androgynous tailcoats and shirts for womenswear and delicate draping for the menswear. Though slightly controversial, our credit cards are whispering sweet nothings, because we can’t wait to get our hands on some of these pieces.

 Footwear

These are our top picks from Italian vegan footwear brand Noah, meaning every step will leave a social and eco-friendly footprint, with the added perk of looking absolutely stunning. With a pair of slingbacks from Noah comes that heart-warming sense of responsibly, both to the environment and to your shoes. Dolce Vita indeed!

 Accessories

Let us introduce you to the Sloane and the Nolan from Matt & Nat. They use a range of faux leathers to create sleek accessories for reasonable prices. Catch them quick though, their top pieces are selling out fast.

In addition to the above luxury brands, high street brands such as H&M, American Apparel, Topshop, Mango, Free People and Helly Hansen have all added animal-friendly lines to their collections in recent years.

Style doesn’t have to be senseless, cruel or unsustainable. It’s about time us fashionistas take some responsibility and send change striding down the runways.

Elizabeth Finney

Visit here for UMASAN’s full collection