In an effort to produce a locally sourced clothing item from materials inside a 150 mile radius of their California HQ, North Face created the limited edition Backyard Hoodie. While the local food movement takes off in different places all over the world, this endeavor shows how locally produced fashion is a more difficult feat -- especially when considering a global supply chain.
The locally sourced clothing is available for men and women this December at North Face stores all over the United States as well as online. In the name of sustainability, the Backyard Project was possible due to collaborations and partnerships within the textile industry, including the Sustainable Cotton Project and Fibershed.
The "wearable success story" succeeded in their goal, but cannot be put into practice for the entire brand at this time.
Uber Local Hoodies
This Locally Sourced Clothing Item is Made with Materials Only 150 Miles Away
Trend Themes
1. Locally Sourced Fashion - Opportunity for companies to create clothing items made from materials within a specific radius, supporting local communities and reducing the environmental impact of global supply chains.
2. Sustainability in Fashion - Growing demand for sustainable fashion options drives the development of partnerships and collaborations within the textile industry to promote environmentally friendly practices.
3. Limited Edition Clothing - Creating exclusive and unique clothing items through collaborations and partnerships can generate excitement and increase brand value for fashion companies.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Retail - Fashion retailers can explore the concept of locally sourced fashion and collaborate with sustainable textile initiatives to offer more eco-friendly and locally produced clothing options to consumers.
2. Textile Manufacturing - Opportunity for textile manufacturers to partner with fashion brands and sustainable initiatives to provide locally sourced materials for unique and environmentally conscious clothing items.
3. Sustainability Consulting - Consulting firms specializing in sustainability can support fashion brands in developing strategies and partnerships to integrate locally sourced materials and sustainable practices into their supply chains.