What is sustainability in fashion? 

Sustainability in fashion refers to the need to move towards greener practices by implementing radical changes. Apart from the huge CO2 emission caused by this industry, the fashion sector is also responsible for high water consumption, using a total of 93 billion cubic meters of water every year. To put this in perspective, this amount would be able to meet the needs of five million people. 

What’s worse is that, according to an article by the Geneva Environmental Network, most of the clothes being manufactured at the moment quickly end up in the bin, with 85% of all textiles being thrown away every year. Most of these clothes are never recycled properly. This means that the microplastic present in them ends up in our oceans. 

There is no way around it. The fashion industry negatively impacts our environment in so many ways. This is why plenty of brands all over the world are now focusing on eco-friendly practices to limit their damage. But what makes a brand truly eco-friendly? 

What makes a fashion brand sustainable? 

There are plenty of ways in which brands can reduce their negative impact on our environment. For instance, investing in the circular economy, embracing slow fashion, and opting for sustainable materials. Let’s analyze each one of these in more detail. 

What is slow fashion?

Most of us were taught to head to the mall at each change of season to renew our wardrobe. This practice unfortunately is detrimental to our environment. According to an article published by Bloomberg, a study from the UK found that 1 in 3 participants consider a piece of clothes old after one or two years. This way of thinking is harmful as it pushes us to keep purchasing new products, consuming more resources, and emitting more CO2 while increasing our waste. 

The slow fashion movement is now contrasting this trend. While fast fashion focuses on the constant need to purchase new items, brands embracing slow fashion tend to focus on quality over quantity, creating unique pieces that last through time. 

The circular economy

Sustainable brands also tend to invest in the so-called circular economy. This term refers to strategies put in place to reduce waste both during manufacturing processes and in terms of resources, such as energy and water consumption.

In circular fashion, clothes are designed to last for longer and are easily repairable. Some companies may decide to work with closed-looped systems in which materials scraps are cycled back into the production line to avoid waste. The same can be done with water waste. Other companies may offer free or affordable life repairs so that the client will be more likely to avoid buying a new piece of clothing and instead fix the one he already owns. 

What are sustainable materials?

Another important choice fashion brands face when manufacturing sustainable clothes is which textile to use for their designs. While some fabrics are incredibly polluting, others tend to be way more eco-friendly. 

According to an article by the Independent, cotton is among the worst materials when it comes to its environmental impact as it requires plenty of water to grow. We currently need between 10,000 to 20,000 gallons of water to produce a pair of jeans and up to 3,000 for a simple t-shirt. Other highly polluting materials include synthetics and non-biodegradable fabrics such as polyester, acrylic, and nylon. While these are not as water-demanding as cotton, they are not biodegradable and heavily rely on the petrochemical industry for their production processes. 

So what about sustainable materials? Luckily, there are plenty of options out there for brands to choose from when manufacturing high-quality garments. Among these, an article by BBC Earth mentions linen, organic or recycled cotton, and lyocell. These fabrics require less water in their production processes compared to other popular materials, don’t need toxic pesticides and fertilizers, and are fully biodegradable. But what about textiles, such as silk?

Is silk an eco-friendly material? 

This natural protein fiber dates back to the Neolithic period and is fabricated by certain insect larvae when forming cocoons. Silk production constitutes only 0.2% of the global fiber market but, despite this, this material remains incredibly popular thanks to its texture and luster. But is silk sustainable? 

Silk is somehow in between when it comes to sustainability. On the one hand, its fully biodegradable nature as well as the lack of pesticides in its production processes make silk a great environmental ally. On the other hand, however, this material is associated with high levels of energy and water consumption.

A natural fiber

On the positive side, silk is a natural fabric and is therefore fully biodegradable. This means that, unlike other materials, silk does not shed microplastic in the environment while being washed, one of the most common environmental problems when it comes to synthetic fabrics. 

Toxic fertilizers and pesticides

Another benefit of silk production is that, unlike other materials such as cotton, it requires way fewer toxic pesticides and fertilizers. While some manufacturers may still choose to use some of these harmful products, traditionally mulberry trees, needed to feed the silkworms used to manufacture silk, don’t need these for their growth. 

Water consumption

Unfortunately, when it comes to water consumption, silk does not perform too well. This material is among the ‘thirstiest’ in the world. According to an article by Fashion United, roughly 850-1000 tons of water are used for the production of one ton of raw silk. This is because silk production relies on mulberry trees which require plenty of water to grow. Despite this, this textile still consumes less water than other popular fabrics, such as cotton.

Energy consumption

Silk has also been linked to high energy consumption. This is due to several factors. For instance, silk farms need to be kept at certain temperatures, and harvesting the cocoons requires both hot water and hot water, resulting in higher energy needs. 

Moving towards more sustainable silk production

Ceci New York x By Biehle Fiorella Silk Scarf Organic Silk Twill 90x90cm

So how can we get rid of the negative impact of silk and make the most out of the benefits that this textile has for our environment? GOTS-certified silk is one of the solutions. This material is produced without the use of harmful chemicals, such as toxic pesticides and fertilizers. On top of this, this fabric is more ethical as it allows silkworms to fully develop and continue their life after leaving the cocoon behind. 

Plenty of brands are now also opting for recycled silk, namely old silk fabrics that have been reused for the creation of new textiles. Lastly, wild silk refers to silk made from the cocoons of Tussar silkworms found in open forests. This allows for fewer chemicals to be used on the production processes while also making this type of silk more ethical, as cocoons are often harvested after the moths have left. 

Our commitment to ethical and sustainable silk production

Our mission at By Biehle is to create unique products able to last through time to limit our waste as much as possible. We are fully aware of the environmental impact that silk production has on our planet and for this reason, we decided to opt for sustainable practices to limit our CO2 emissions. 

GOTS-Certified

Our clients can now choose our Organic Silk Twill 14mm for their designs. This type of silk is GOTS-certified meaning that it is manufactured sustainably from start to finish. 

Fair labor practices 

Unfortunately, silk production is often linked to unethical labor practices such as worker exploitation and child labor. This is not our case! We decided to base our entire production in the so-called Silk City, Como. This lovely town in northern Italy is among the most renowned silk manufacturing centers in the world and employees here work under the strict laws set up by the EU. Apart from these talented artisans, we also work in close collaboration with amazing artists such as Ceci New York in the creation of unique hand-painted designs to wear in your daily life.

Focus on recycling

Lastly, we invest in recycling practices to limit our waste. For instance, we are now using recyclable plastic for the protective sleeves in which our scarves are placed and also opt for recycled materials in the creation of our packaging and stationery cards.

As our brand continues to grow, so does our effort to prioritize sustainable practices in the hope that the fashion industry will one day be an environmental ally rather than an enemy.

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As you consider how to wear a silk scarf or how to wear a scarf with a dress today, have you ever stopped to think about where silk comes from? From ancient times to 2024, silk has become more than a luxurious fabric!

Silk Through Time: A Journey in Luxury Fashion 

Dating back to ancient China, around 3630 BC, silk has been a big part of Chinese life. Fast forward to the present day, silk exceeds functionality, arising as a symbol of sophistication and self-expression.

Over the centuries, silk has been crucial in shaping trade routes and cultural exchanges between East and West. The Silk Road, established during the Han Dynasty in China, facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies between China, Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. This historical trade network contributed to the spread of silk and promoted cultural diffusion and economic growth along its route.

Today, silk continues to impress people worldwide. From high-end fashion runways to everyday wardrobe staples: silk products are synonymous with quality, style, luxury, and elegance. As the demand for sustainable and ethically sourced materials grows, the silk industry faces new challenges and opportunities to innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences while preserving its rich heritage and tradition.

Are scarves still in style in 2024? Nowadays, silk has transformed into more than just a fabric. Among its various applications, silk scarves are one of the most popular items.  Whether you wear them around your neck, in your hair, or as a belt, they are a great accessory that will stay!

Let’s explore the moments where silk, including silk scarves, left a lasting mark on fashion trends from the recent past to the present!

Silk Road (130 BCE-1453 CE) 

The Silk Road was an ancient trading route connecting Asia with the Mediterranean and European world. This historic road wasn’t just about moving goods; it was a bridge between civilizations, encouraging cultural exchange and economic growth. It was necessary for bringing different cultures together and helping them learn from each other.

Roman Empire

In the Roman Empire, silk was like a treasure from faraway lands, cherished for its softness and beauty. People went crazy for it, and it became a symbol of luxury and status. Historians think silk arrived in Rome around 53 AD, brought by traders travelling along the Silk Road. From then on, silk became an item with everyone wanting a piece.

Byzantine Empire 

In the Byzantine Empire, silk had a high demand. Just like in Rome, people couldn’t get enough of it. It was soft and shiny and made people look super elegant. Silk became a symbol of power and wealth, worn by emperors, nobles, and high-ranking officials to show off status and style.

Renaissance

During the Renaissance, silk was like a symbol of the era’s elegance. People were obsessed with it, using silk fabric for everything from clothing to furnishings. It was considered the height of fashion. Historical records show that silk was in high demand during the Renaissance. Cities like Florence and Venice became famous for their silk production, creating luxurious fabrics that were coveted across Europe.

Rococo Era

During the Rococo era, silk symbolized luxury and elegance in European fashion and decor. This period, characterized by its playful aesthetic, saw silk fabrics adorned with elaborate patterns, embroidery, and ornaments. The production succeeded during the Rococo era, especially in countries like France and Italy.

Industrial Revolution

Silk production changed from traditional methods to mechanized manufacturing processes. This period, characterized by rapid industrialization and urbanization, is known for advancements in textile machinery that transformed the silk industry. Silk garments and goods became more commonplace in everyday life.

Hollywood Golden Age

During the Hollywood Golden Age, silk was the “star of the show.” This “glamorous era,” from the late 1920s to the early 1960s, saw silk become a favorite fabric for movie stars’ iconic costumes. Whether on-screen or at glamorous events, silk dresses, suits, and scarves were popular among leading actors and actresses.

1960s Fashion Revolution

In the 1960s Fashion Revolution, silk was a fashion favorite, bringing elegance and luxury to the swinging styles of the era. Whether it was the sleek mod looks or the free-flowing bohemian vibes, silk fabrics were everywhere.

Punk Movement

During the Punk Movement, silk took on a revolutionary edge, challenging traditional notions of luxury and elegance. This era, which emerged in the mid-1970s, saw silk fabrics being used in unexpected ways. Punks used silk to pair silk scarves with safety pins or slashing silk shirts. 

1980s Designer Collaborations

In the 1980s, designer collaborations revolutionized the fashion industry, bringing creativity from different corners.  Silk’s luxurious feel made it a favorite, allowing designers to show their creativity through bold prints, complex details, and experimental styles.

Digital Age and Modern Runways

Nowadays, online platforms and social media play a crucial role in boosting the visibility of silk scarves from modern runways. In the Digital Age, silk continues to make its mark in fashion through designer collaborations. 

Today, fashion designers collaborate with digital artists, influencers, and companies to create cutting-edge collections that combine fashion with technology. Silk scarves are available in online stores. They offer consumers the convenience of accessing luxurious accessories, scarves, and other products.

Conclusion

From its origin to today… you see, silk has always been a symbol of elegance! The beauty of a silk scarf is not just in its feel or look but in the many ways you can wear it. 

Try to search on Google: “How to wear a silk scarf?”! You will find too many options! People love experimenting with different styles, showing off their fashion sense. This uniqueness makes silk scarves a must-have accessory in everyone’s wardrobe.

The love for silk keeps growing as more people discover the style they add to any outfit. Whether for a formal event or a casual day out, it makes a simple outfit look unique. Fashion influencers and stylists often share tips and tutorials on “how to wear a silk scarf,” making it easy for anyone to add uniqueness to their look. This trend has made silk scarves more popular.

By Biehle takes the silk scarf game to the next level. Our focus is custom design, using only the finest fabrics and craftsmanship to create something extraordinary. Each silk scarf is a piece of art designed to stand out and make the wearer feel different. Discover our collection and find the perfect fit for you!

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