A.BCH is a Melbourne-based label that aims to transform the fashion system. Recognizing the negative impact the industry has as the world’s second-largest polluter and a major culprit of exploitation, A.BCH offers “a simple solution to a complex problem.”
The label is grounded in circularity, meaning the entire life cycle of a garment- from production to consumption- is considered to ensure the most sustainable product possible. The closed-loop model at A.BCH begins by researching suppliers whose values align with their own, such as those with carbon-neutral factories and ethical work conditions.
A.BCH holds the highest standards for the materials they use, in that everything must be biodegradable or recyclable. All of the materials they use, including Certified Organic Linen and Peace Silk, are listed on their website with detailed descriptions. Furthermore, the brand prioritizes local and closest proximity suppliers and makes all garments in Melbourne, in order to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the clothing.
With the domination of fast fashion and media that permeates a quicker-than-ever trend turnover, the average consumer throws out 70 pounds of clothing per year. A.BCH commits to reducing the number of textiles that get sent to landfills through their Care, Repair, Wear program. In addition to the care guide that comes with every purchase, A.BCH offers free repairs and in-person workshops to extend the life of their garments.
Every A.BCH piece is compostable at home but customers may also send their items back through their recycling program. Returned products are sorted for either second-hand resale/donation, new product development or made into new yarns. For every 500 grams of clothing returned, customers receive $10 towards their next purchase.
The design ethos of A.BCH centres around minimalism and versatility. Contrary to fast fashion, A.BCH creates pieces that are meant to be long-lasting essentials, with their timeless silhouettes and neutral colour palettes.
In efforts to inspire widespread change in the industry, A.BCH launched Circular Sourcing, a platform to help other small fashion brands access sustainable materials. Many circular raw materials come at high price points and high minimum order quantities (MOQs), leaving smaller-scale brands at a disadvantage.
Circular Sourcing collectively gathers requests for materials such as biodegradable elastane yarns, un-dyed direct from the farm wool yarns, biodegradable elastic bands, Tencel sewing threads, organic cotton fusings and more. Through this group sourcing, they are able to assist the individual brands in becoming a part of the circular economy.
A.BCH redefines what it truly means to be an ethical fashion label. Through continuous research and development, A.BCH is paving the way for an environmentally conscious future in the fashion industry.
Down below are some of the best from A.BCH’s current offerings.
Shirt
All images in this article are courtesy of A.BCH.
