For this month's Fanfare Label Muse, we spoke to Stacy Grace; founder of the world's first compostable clothing business KENT.
Originally from Toronto, Stacy has worked extensively with sustainable brands (e.g. Timberland, TOMS, Virgin) worldwide for over 10 years. From fashion to architecture, textile social enterprises and a Cambridge University post-grad in Sustainable Business. Stacy's multifaceted love for eco-consciousness and entrepreneurship knows no bounds. She's a modern-day rennaissance woman and we're here for it.
KENT was born out of the struggle to find synthetic-free underwear. Stacy's commitment to a plastic-free lifestyle inspired her to create the world's first compostable clothing business. So that at the end of its life, you can 'Plant Your Pants' without hurting the planet.
Why did you start your brand?
I could not find synthetic free underwear! It was shocking how much fashion, and in particular the intimates category, has become reliant upon fossil-fuel based materials like nylon, elastane and spandex.
After working with a few sustainable fashion brands, I found that even they could not design a truly natural garment. So I made it a mission to go completely plastic free and make underwear so natural, that at their end-of-life, you can literally 'Plant Your Pants' (aka compost them to become nutrient rich soil vs. end up in landfill).
How do you stay inspired?
Surrounding myself with like-minded entrepreneurs, business owners and do-ers who are reinventing industries for the better.
What’s one thing you wish someone had told you before starting KENT?
Creating a product is HARD! I perhaps underestimated the difficulty of creating a products-based business, and in particular a garment that is designed to sit so close to the body (when everybody's body is different). Though perhaps good I didn't get that advice in the end. :)
How would you describe your personal style in 3 words?
Functional (I'm a mum). Neutral. Minimal.
How would you style your Fanfare Label pieces?
Layers upon layers! I love to tuck, tie and layer pieces with different textures.
What’s your top tip for being more sustainable?
Buy less, buy better.