The future of the sustainable fashion industry
Sustainable, sustainable, sustainable, everyone uses the word, but who really means it?
How do you recognize which brand is really sustainable? What impact is the current crisis having on the industry? Who can afford sustainable fashion anymore?
These are topics Sympathy Lab Host Kim Scholze will be talking about with Michael Spitzbarth of Bleed Clothing at Outdoor by ISPO 2023 in Munich.
Bleed Clothing's beginnings date back to its first presentation 15 years ago at ISPO, the leading international trade show for sports. Since then, the brand has become a pioneer in sustainability. Michael Spitzbarth talks about his motivations for founding a company with an environmentally friendly focus. For him, it was clear from the start that sustainability was not just a trend, but a necessity.
The Company Bleed Clothing
Bleed Clothing employs 15 dedicated people who handle everything from product development to shipping under one roof. Every year, around 200 items are created, embodying the unique mix of streetwear and outdoor style.
Especially in times of the current crisis, when supply chains are under pressure and payment terms are becoming a problem, it is of great importance to talk about this and support the companies that are truly acting sustainably.
An important aspect of the conversation is the importance of community. Bleed Clothing pursues the goal of creating awareness for the topic of sustainability and helping people to consume more consciously. Open communication plays a crucial role here. Only when companies report transparently about their production methods, materials and suppliers can consumers make an informed decision.
But how can you tell which brand is actually operating sustainably?
The Bleed Method
Michael Spitzbarth recommends two methods: First, one should check the material composition. For example, a material composition of synthetic and natural fibers is suboptimal for the recycling process and subsequently not suitable for achieving an effective circular economy.
The second option is a direct message to the brand. Here, one should pay attention to whether the brand shows transparency regarding its production processes.
Sustainability in the fashion industry is playing an increasingly important role. Bleed Clothing and other companies show that it is possible to produce sustainably and offer stylish products at the same time. Only through collaboration and open communication can sustainable change be achieved and a sustainable fashion industry be created.