Sustainability, Our North Star

At First Colours, sustainability isn't just a buzzword; it's our guiding principle. So, what does sustainability mean to us? It's about leaving this world in a better state than we found it. It's about making choices today that our future generations will thank us for. 

A Global Perspective 

We've got a global outlook. We're committed to making fashion that transcends borders. But that also means we're aware of the global impact of our choices. We're here to make sure that impact is a positive one. 

No Judgment Zone 

We're all on this journey together, and there's no room for judgment. Whether you're a seasoned sustainability pro or just starting out, you're welcome here. We believe in the power of progress, not perfection. So, let's learn, grow, and make sustainable choices together without any finger-pointing. 

Inclusivity is Key 

Inclusivity isn't just about the clothes we make; it's about who we are as a brand. We celebrate diversity in all its forms, and that includes embracing diverse perspectives on sustainability. We want everyone to feel at home in our corner of the fashion world. 

Casually Cool, Seriously Sustainable 

Our tone may be laid-back, but our commitment to sustainability is anything but. We take our responsibility seriously. We're not about greenwashing or empty promises; we're about making meaningful change in the fashion industry.

Passionate and Warm at Heart 

We're genuinely excited about sustainability, and that passion shines through in everything we do. We want to share that warmth and enthusiasm with you, our amazing community. Together, we can create a more sustainable future.

Honesty, Always

You can trust us to be honest about our sustainability journey. We'll share our wins, our challenges, and our goals openly. We believe that transparency builds trust, and we're all about building a trusty relationship with you.

 

THE LOW DOWN

Things we do really well:

• 100% of our pieces are made from recycled, organic, natural or deadstock fabric.

• We manufacture small quantities to ensure pieces don’t go to waste.

• We partner with Inro, in the instance that we can’t sell all our stock, who utilise styles that don’t sell out in their subscription boxes.

• All of our pieces go up to at least a size 18, with many also up to a 20.

• Transparent supply chain data, with all our production facilities listed on Open Supply Hub.

• Our facilities are GRS, OEKO-TEX100 certified. They also have SEDEX certifications.

• Our tags and packaging are all made from recycled materials.

• Our shipping to our customers is carbon neutral through Australia Post.

• Our designs are not trend based are designed to be timeless and worn for a long time.

• We are 100% female owned and operated

• We don’t utilise animal leather or feathers

• Many of our pieces are available to rent, meaning more people can access our pieces

Things we need to work on:

• We are working towards Bcorp certification

• Our buttons and zippers are currently not made from recycled or deadstock materials

• Our supply chain currently consists of back and forth in the sampling process which contributes to carbon emissions. Shipping from our factories to our HQ is not carbon neutral.

• We are currently not carbon neutral

• Our recycled polyester pieces and some of our deadstock fabrics are not biodegradable

 CIRCULARITY

1.Sustainable design 

When it comes to fashion, we're not in the business of chasing trends that fizzle out as quickly as they appear. Our approach to sustainable design is all about creating pieces that stand the test of time. We meticulously select materials that are not only eco-friendly but also durable, ensuring your favourite pieces will stay in your wardrobe for years to come. We prioritise classic styles and versatile designs that don't just follow fashion's ever-changing whims but become timeless staples in your collection. By choosing quality over quantity, we're reducing the fashion industry's environmental footprint and helping you build a wardrobe that's as enduring as your passion for sustainability.

 

 2. After Care

At First Colours, our commitment to sustainability doesn't stop at the moment you make a purchase. We believe that how you care for your clothes is just as essential as the choice to buy them sustainably. It's a small act with significant impact. Simple steps like washing your garments in cold water, using eco-friendly detergents, and line drying them not only help preserve the vibrant colours and quality of your pieces but also reduce energy consumption and water waste. By treating your clothes with care, you extend their lifespan and lessen the need for frequent replacements. It's a win-win for both your wardrobe and the planet. So, let's cherish each piece in your collection and make the world a better place, one laundry load at a time.

 

 3. After Life

While not all of our pieces are biodegradable, we're determined to reduce waste and extend the life of our clothing. Any unsold garments from our collections find a second chance through our partnership with Inro, a subscription box service with a twist. Inro doesn't just redistribute these clothes; they mend and refresh them, creating a curated monthly subscription box filled with stylish pieces. We're also hard at work on innovative ways to recycle our clothing entirely, so that when a garment has had its moment in the sun, it can be reborn into something new and wonderful. While this may be a journey that takes some time, rest assured that we're committed to pushing the boundaries of sustainability in fashion and making sure our clothes have a meaningful afterlife. Together, we're creating a circular fashion future.