Discover Sustainable Fashion in the UAE: Embracing Eco-Friendly Design Trends
The concept of sustainable fashion is increasingly becoming prominent in the UAE, propelled by a combination of heightened consumer awareness, supportive government initiatives, and a rising interest in environmentally friendly and ethical practices.
This trend is observable across multiple sectors, such as luxury fashion, local designers, and significant events that advocate for sustainability. Brands are increasingly using recycled and eco-friendly materials, such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, and innovative fabrics like Piñatex (made from pineapple fibers).
In 2023, global sales of pre-owned clothing surged to $211 billion, marking a 19% rise from the prior year. A report from GlobalData, prepared for the resale platform ThredUp, forecasts that the market could climb to $350 billion by 2027. The study also projects that second-hand apparel sales will grow three times faster than the overall fashion market by the same year.
While this may pose challenges for fast fashion, it signals positive progress for environmental sustainability.
Source: (https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2024/07/secondhand-clothes-sustainable-fashion-circular-economy/)
The UAE government has committed to sustainability goals as part of its Vision 2021 and beyond. This includes promoting sustainability in various sectors, including fashion. According to a survey, 61% of UAE residents prefer to buy sustainable fashion products. Events such as Dubai Sustainable Fashion Week and platforms like Dubai Design District (D3) have further fuelled the movement by showcasing eco-conscious designers and innovations.
While global powerhouse brands such as Nike, H&M, Adidas and Levi’s are taking notable steps towards more sustainable production, homegrown U.A.E. fashion labels are on par with helping to make a difference equally, if not more.
A handful of examples of sustainable fashion brands in the UAE include:
- The Giving Movement – A Dubai-based sustainable activewear brand, *The Giving Movement* uses eco-friendly materials such as recycled plastic and bamboo fabric. It also integrates ethical production practices by donating a portion of its profits to charity. The brand has rapidly gained popularity for blending fashion with a strong social and environmental purpose.
- House of Nomad – This UAE-based label, known for its street-style aesthetic, has embraced sustainability by incorporating organic and recycled materials into its collections. The brand focuses on creating pieces that are timeless, reducing the frequency of fashion waste.
- Reemami – A sustainable fashion label from the UAE, Reemami combines avant-garde designs with ethical practices. It uses eco-friendly fabrics, local craftsmanship, and a zero-waste approach, promoting conscious consumption.
- DGrade – The brand provides businesses with Greenspun™ clothing and accessories, crafted from sustainable materials. Additionally, it promotes environmental responsibility through its #SimplyBottles Recycling Initiative, which educates and actively engages communities in recycling efforts.
Concepts like recycling, upcycling, and the circular economy are becoming integral to fashion brands in the U.A.E. Companies focus on reducing textile waste, offering repair and rental services, and ensuring ethical labour practices. The Sharjah-based textile recycling plant, capable of recycling 18 tons of textile waste per day, reflects the UAE’s commitment to minimizing waste.
In conclusion, the U.A.E. is rapidly becoming a hub for sustainable fashion, driven by both consumer interest and innovative approaches within the fashion industry. Local and international brands are tapping into this growing market, paving the way for a more environmentally conscious fashion future in the region.
