Slow It Down

Three local brand owners speak to Stephanie Boey on the importance of conscious purchasing and ending over-consumption.

- Stephanie Boey

DIANNA YONG,

Founder of Sayang

@shopsayang | shopsayang.com

Describe the Sayang ethos.

In the age of fast fashion, we believe in slowing it down. None of our products are mass produced, and they are created with a lot of care and attention.

Where are Sayang clothes made, and who makes them?

All garments by Sayang are proudly made in Malaysia using natural textiles. We work with a team that connects us with low income communities and supports the local economy by providing jobs and trade skills. I believe it ’s important for brands to not only understand their supply chain, but to have an ethical one, too.

Why should other fashion brands consider using natural textiles?

Man-made textiles (such as polyester and plastics) take longer to decompose, that is, they spend longer periods of time in landfills which are already overflowing. For a greener future, brands should take the responsibility to consider resource consumption, shelf-life and disposal of their products.

Sayang uses eco-friendly labels and hangtags printed in soy ink. Tells us more about that.

Packaging and branding products play a huge part in waste pollution, so it is very important that our labels are recyclable and produce a lesser impact on the environment. Soy ink has low consumption characteristics and lasts longer than traditional inks for the same amount of printing. Also, it is biodegradable, making it easier remove during the recycling process