Reformation

Overview

Reformation is a fashion brand that uniquely blends style and sustainability, setting it apart in the fashion industry. Founded in 2009 by Yael Aflalo, Reformation has made a significant mark by incorporating eco-friendly materials and practices into its designs. The company is renowned for its trendy, stylish garments that appeal to a wide range of customers, particularly those who are environmentally conscious.

Sustainable Practices

Reformation's commitment to sustainability is evident in several key areas:

  1. Eco-Friendly Materials:
    • Recycled Fabrics: The brand extensively uses recycled fabrics, which significantly reduces waste and the demand for virgin materials. For instance, many of its garments are made from recycled polyester and nylon.
    • Sustainable Fibers: Reformation also uses sustainably sourced fibers such as Tencel, which is derived from wood pulp and produced in a closed-loop process that minimizes environmental impact.
    • Deadstock Fabric: The company often utilizes deadstock fabric, which refers to unused textiles from other fashion houses that would otherwise go to waste.
  2. Water-Saving Techniques:
    • Reformation employs innovative water-saving techniques in its production processes. For example, the brand uses digital printing and low-water dyes, which considerably reduce water consumption compared to traditional methods.
    • The company also monitors its water usage and implements strategies to reduce it, reflecting its dedication to preserving this precious resource.
  3. Energy Efficiency:
    • Reformation's manufacturing facilities are designed to be energy efficient, incorporating solar energy and other renewable sources where possible.
    • The brand's headquarters and stores are powered by renewable energy, and they work continuously to offset carbon emissions through various environmental projects.

Transparency

Reformation is a pioneer in transparency within the fashion industry. The brand provides detailed information about the environmental impact of each garment, allowing customers to make informed decisions. This transparency includes data on carbon emissions, water usage, and waste generated during the production of each piece of clothing.

  1. Sustainability Reports: Reformation publishes regular sustainability reports, which offer insights into the company’s environmental performance and the steps being taken to improve it.
  2. RefScale: The company uses a tool called RefScale to measure the environmental footprint of its products. RefScale tracks the carbon dioxide emissions, water usage, and waste generated from the production process, and this information is shared with consumers on the product pages.

Community and Ethics

Reformation’s commitment to sustainability extends to its business ethics and community involvement:

  1. Fair Labor Practices: The brand ensures fair labor practices by maintaining strict standards for its manufacturing partners and regularly auditing their compliance.
  2. Inclusivity and Diversity: Reformation strives to promote inclusivity and diversity within its workforce and marketing campaigns, reflecting a broader commitment to social responsibility.

Recognition and Impact

Reformation's innovative approach to sustainable fashion has earned it widespread recognition and a loyal customer base. The brand has received numerous accolades for its efforts, including awards for environmental leadership and sustainability in fashion.

  1. Industry Influence: Reformation has influenced many other brands to adopt more sustainable practices, contributing to a shift towards greater environmental consciousness in the fashion industry.
  2. Customer Engagement: The brand’s transparent approach and stylish designs have resonated with consumers, making sustainability a desirable attribute in fashion.

Conclusion

Reformation exemplifies how fashion and sustainability can go hand in hand. By integrating eco-friendly materials, implementing water-saving techniques, emphasizing transparency, and maintaining ethical practices, Reformation has set a high standard for the fashion industry. The brand’s success demonstrates that it is possible to create stylish, desirable clothing while minimizing environmental impact, thus paving the way for a more sustainable future in fashion.