sustainability
& community impact
The very nature of the fashion and textile industries makes them intrinsically unsustainable, and yet millions of people across the globe rely on these industries to survive. So while one might say that identifying as a sustainable fashion brand is an oxymoron, we know how integral fashion is to individual identity, style and self-expression. In this light, every garment, accessory, and home ware piece we create reflects our commitment to fair trade, sustainable materials, and conscious consumption; ensuring that beauty, dignity, and sustainability coexist in everything we make
Our five pillars of sustainability are at the core of what we strive to achieve. We believe that our quality and style is only further enhanced by our commitment to the advancement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our work is primarily guided by the following SDGs:
- Goal 5: Gender Equality
- Goal 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth
- Goal 12: Responsible Consumption & Production
- Goal 14: Life Below Water
I. Promoting Gender Equity – SDG 5 - Gender Equality
We appreciate that exceptional skill and expertise alone are not enough without access and opportunity and in this light we proudly employ women crocheters, beaders and embroiderers from among our local communities. In employing our team members, rather than simply engaging on piecework terms with them as artisans, we are not only able to ensure quality and consistency in our work but more importantly are able to empower them with regular, stable income to support themselves and their families. In our partnerships with external artisans, we strive to promote women owned and led small businesses. Our goal is to create high-quality garments while advancing gender equity among our local communities.
II. Transparent Pricing & Ethical Labour Practices – SDG 8 Decent Work & Economic Growth
Our transparent pricing ensures that each purchase directly contributes to the livelihoods of our all our artisans, particularly our women team members. We believe in fair wages and equitable partnerships, reinforcing our commitment to ethical labour practices. We maintain a safe, hygienic workplace, ensure that none of our materials are harmful to our team and ensure there is a good work/life balance for everyone. Buying from Studio Lola means more than investing in a piece of clothing; it means investing in the well-being of communities and the empowerment of women across the communities we work with in Africa and beyond.
III. Ethical Sourcing & Production – SDG 12
We are intentional in the sourcing of our fabrics and packaging materials. We opt to work with suppliers who are open about the sourcing and production methods so that we can make responsible choices. We use dead-stock fabrics that help to reduce waste and carefully select other fabrics which have sustainable production practices. By employing a small team, we are able to ensure ethical production in a holistic sense, both in fair wages and good working conditions, but also in producing small-batch items which are handmade intentionally and slowly.
IV. Limited Release Production – SDG 12
We take pride in our small-batch, limited-release collections, dropping only two full collections a year and only producing more as per purchase orders from stockists. This deliberate decision reflects our dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and mindful consumption. Each garment is thoughtfully designed and created to be cherished for years to come, fostering a deeper connection between our customers and the wonderful team who make them.
V. Environmental Responsibility – SDG 12 & 14
We continuously strive to tread lightly on the planet, reducing waste in our production processes and exploring innovative sustainable solutions. We have made a deliberate choice in sourcing natural fabrics such as linen, cotton etc. which help reduce our environmental footprint. Our Crafts – crochet, knitting, hand embroidery (needlework), free hand machine embroidery, beading, eco dying all have a very low environmental impact. We use botanical dyes to reduce toxic waste released in to the environment and produce hand made pieces in-house without the use of large scale polluting machinery.
From sourcing materials to packaging and shipping, we're committed to minimising our environmental impact at every stage of the production cycle. We aim to leave a positive legacy ensuring that the beauty thrives in harmony with nature.