Finally, an organic clothing line for eco-warriors.
COTTON fabric is popular in tropical climates, favoured for T-shirts and other tops.
However, an article published in Encyclopaedia Britannica last year stated that conventionally grown cotton occupies only 3% of the world’s agricultural land but uses 25% of the world’s chemical pesticides.
An option lies with organic cotton fabric, which, besides being environmentally friendly, also lasts longer. Providing this alternative choice is local fashion designer Melinda Looi, who has launched a new range of organic cotton casual wear under the label Mell Basics.
“(Each product) is not just an organic top, it’s an experience that will feel good on your skin and your conscience,” she said. “We know it will appeal to customers because we’re offering a healthier and affordable alternative. Another reason is that organic cotton clothes are not treated with harsh chemicals, which weaken the cotton fibres, so organic cloth will last longer.”
What motivated Looi to come up with this range? “Environmental changes affect each one of us. It is my responsibility as a designer, and especially as a woman and mother, to make a valuable contribution towards preserving our environment and be a role-model to my children by living a healthier lifestyle.”
Looi has used eco-friendly materials in the past like recycled glass beads, hemp and recycled plastic. This new range is the first step towards a fully eco-friendly collection.
All Mell Basics tops are made of certified organic cotton while its slip dresses use a combination of 70% organic cotton and 30% hemp, mainly because hemp is cooling, has fast absorption and dries quickly.
“Certified organic cotton” refers to pesticide-free fields and no genetically modified cotton seeds or use of toxic chemicals in the production process. Mell Basics garments are manufactured using biodegradable colour dyes while packaging is made of 100% recycled paper.
The company buys yarn from certified organic cotton manufacturers mostly from Turkey and India, and works with a manufacturer in China. Looi said these suppliers and manufacturers comply with the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and apply the Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 set out by the Institute of the International Oeko-Tex® Association.
GOTS define the requirements for the organic status of textiles, from harvesting of raw materials through to environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing and labelling.
Meanwhile, the Institute of the International Oeko-Tex® Association tests for harmful substances according to the Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 and certifies that products pose no health risk.
One challenge for Looi was securing a partnership with certified suppliers. The company has plans to expand the label in terms of design and materials.
“Currently we are exploring two other materials, jutecell, a cellulose fibre with natural anti-fungal properties, and recycled cotton.”
All Mell Basics products feature three Swarovski crystals that form the “MB” logo.
At present, the range offers seven designs that include tees, tanks and turtle-necks. All styles come in 10 colours. Priced from RM39, the collection is available at selected Parkson stores within the Klang Valley and Penang.
02 March, 2010 by admin