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Ask any sartorial-minded individual about what fashion is supposed to represent and they'll probably tell you something to this effect: It's supposed to make a statement. It shouldn't wear you; you should wear it. Your choice of clothing is an expression to the world of who you really are.
Now, we don't know about all that. We'd like to think that what you're all about on the inside is what should really matter. However, in the case that you can actually speak your passions and the reality of your inner self through the clothes on your back – well, then preach it! This is exactly why we've chosen Rambler's Way as this year's honoree for Greenest Clothing Line. Wear it, and wear it with pride, folks.
First off, let's backtrack. Do the names Tom and Kate Chappell ring a bell? If you're a fan of green living, then probably. This couple founded Tom's of Maine in 1970, an eco-friendly brand of personal care products (toothpaste, deodorant, soap, etc.) which was so successful that it sold to Colgate-Palmolive Co. in 2006 for about $100 million. For many entrepreneurs, that would be the grand end to a success story, but that wasn't to be so for the Chappells.
On the day of the sale, Tom flew to England with his son to hike across the Wales countryside and was soon struck by inspiration: While passing by pastures of sheep and finding his clothing unsuitable to the chilly, wet conditions, he began to dream of lightweight wool that was both non-irritating and made stateside. Then in his mid-sixties, Tom was not quite ready for retirement – or to give up his affinity and natural-born talent for environmentally sustainable business. Therefore, with the support of his wife, he embarked on his next endeavor: Rambler's Way Farm opened in Kennebunk, Maine in October of 2009.
A brand of soft wool comfortwear that is not only casually chic but both ethically and sustainably produced? We have a feeling you're already on board. But this company happens to be much more than shiny on the surface.
For one, Rambler's Way is completely committed to stimulating the American job market. Aware of the negative effects that globalization has on local workers, they attempt to alleviate this by strictly engaging in partnerships within the United States. From the ranchers who supply their wool to the textile manufacturers who craft it into clothing, the company's policy is to employ only American workers rather than outsourcing beyond this country. They care greatly about the good of the world as a whole but want to stabilize the economy at home.
Even more impressive is how diligent they are about their environmental impact. They specifically choose manufacturing partners who employ wind energy, adhere to waste-water technology and are within a set geographic area so that carbon emissions of transport are as minimal as possible. Worsted wool is made from fibers that are natural, renewable, non-toxic and durable. Garments are stained by hand with all-natural and renewable dyes, the material being treated with a chlorine-free enzyme wash. Even the Chappells' home, office building and barn are all equipped with geothermal heating and air conditioning, each building also carrying a LEEDS Gold Certification.
It doesn't stop at production, either. Though Rambler's Way is mostly web-based to reduce impact, they also send out a catalogue which is – no surprise here – made from recycled paper. When it comes to packaging, they use consumer paper recycled boxes, soy based inks and stationary made from reused content. Staff communication is strictly digital or electronic, while sales travel is expected to be done in hybrid and diesel cars only by 2012. In fact, by 2013 the company hopes to be entirely carbon neutral.
We know that a great deal of you are concerned with animal welfare, as well, so rest assured that they treat their sheep very well. They keep them closely guarded from predators, allow them to range and breed naturally, and use gentle, humane equipment in the shearing process.
When you support Rambler's Way, they make sure they pay it forward. They donate 10 percent of their profits to non-profits such as Maine Huts and Trails and The Nature Conservancy, in addition to lending a philanthropic hand to various human needs, education and art efforts.
We say this: Instead of your outfit just broadcasting to the world how stylish you are, how about you let it show your support for greening the Earth? Eco-friendly is always on trend.