The Green Fashion Competition

Textile Exchange Webinar

2012-01-18T11:41:00.002+01:00

NEW: Webinar about the Integrity in Value Chain Investment

More and more companies are working hard to do the right thing, and more consumers are trying to understand the impact of what they are buying. A company's greatest asset is its reputation, whether it is selling to consumers or other businesses. Sustainability claims are not something to be taken lightly. Often, there is an even greater brand risk for those companies willing to begin making the changes their consumers are asking for. In light of this, we'll be hosting a complimentary webinar on Tuesday, January 31, 2012.

Webinar: "Integrity in Value Chain Investment - an overview of the system of standards and strategies necessary to support fiber sustainability claims."

In this webinar, we'll discuss the possible challenges ahead for brands willing to make positive change and we will give an overview of verification strategies, different certification systems and standards and learn the steps a company should follow to ensure that their hard work results in real, positive change.

We'll be hosting our webinar at two different times to make sure as many people as possible are able to join. After registering, you'll receive a confirmation email.

Tuesday, January 31 at 1.00 PM - 2.00 PM GMT
Title: Integrity in Value Chain Investment
Date: Tuesday, January 31
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM GMT

8:00am US Eastern
1:00pm London
2:00pm Amsterdam
6:00pm Mumbai
9:00pm Hong Kong

Reserve your spot for the 1:00 - 2:00 PM GMT Webinar now at:
https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/687045334

System Requirements
PC-based attendees
Required: Windows® 7, Vista, XP or 2003 Server
Macintosh®-based attendees
Required: Mac OS® X 10.5 or newer

Tuesday, January 31 at 2.00 - 3.00 PM EST
Title: Integrity in Value Chain Investment
Date: January 31, 2012
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 EST

2:00pm US Eastern time
1:00pm US Central time
11:00am US Pacific time

Reserve your spot for the 2:00 - 3:00 EST Webinar now at:
https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/695372310

System Requirements
PC-based attendees
Required: Windows® 7, Vista, XP or 2003 Server
Macintosh®-based attendees
Required: Mac OS® X 10.4.11 (Tiger®) or newer

100% ECO-FRIENDLY BAGS

2011-12-22T15:37:00.006+01:00

WE MAKE IT COOL BABY who says eco-fashion is only for sunflower seed eating green gurus? No, Maude & Thilda are on a mission to make it edgy, loud, playful, feminin (or not) and hyper cool, darling... their aim is to seduce people with our fashionable creations to start using tote bags instead of plastic bags and to change the world in small steps.

All the bags are made eco-friendly. They are made of 100% unbleached and undyed heavy natural cotton canvas, printed by hand and using only environment friendly inks.

PS: Did you know that the world uses more than 1.2 trillion plastic bags every year? 1 million plastic bags are used every minute. An adult uses on average 300 plastic bags a year and most of them are only used for 12 minutes before they get thrown away again. We're just sayin'...

The Green Fashion Competition Finalists

2011-12-21T13:24:00.005+01:00

The jury has had an extremely tough job selecting the finalists this season. 40 entrepreneurs
from over the globe were shortlisted and each submitted a business
plan and designs. The level of the submissions was exceptional and it has been truly
inspirational to see how fashion & biodiversity can go hand-in-hand!

Introducing the Jury
Lonneke Engel - Founder of Organice Your Life, Ambassador
Paul Vetter – Representative from the Dutch Ministry of
Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation
Christope Mollet – Founder of Head-On Agency
Manolo Marquez – Senior Banker ABN AMRO
Georgette Koning – Fashion Journalist
Tony Tonnaer – Founder of Kings of Indigo
Wijnand Broer – Deputy Director at CREM

Category 1 finalists:
Studio JUX
Jury comments: “This brand clearly addresses biodiversity issues in the fashion industry and provides a very good overview of materials used, related certifications and sourcing locations. The designs are modern, and simple but interesting enough not to bore. The playful and colourful designs are striking.” The jury believe that this company can have a true impact on the communication of green labels and a that it has a thorough understanding of biodiversity and sustainability in general, the business plan even included a Life cycle analysis of CO2 emissions. “The business plan reads that the brand means ‘Fun’ in German. We would not be surprised if it means ‘Sustainable’ in Nepalese.”

L’Herbe Rouge
Jury comments: “L’Herbe Rouge shows a clear understanding of the impacts of materials and processes on biodiversity. The designs are both refreshing and sober. Clothes are clean cut and minimalistic and are made of recycled yarn and organic cotton. The pieces are well connected and the brand already has a good track record. The knowledge of biodiversity is translated into the right decisions on design and materials, of which the dyes from organic grapes should definitely be mentioned!”

SPRB
Jury comments: “This label stands for its raw aesthetic. The eye-catching knits are highly fashionable, comfortable and enriched with handcraft details. Designs are made by hand, using local production and organic cotton and natural dyes. This plan has a lot going for it.” The jury like the creative spirit tainted by true craftsmanship behind the label. “The label claims that their products are multifunctional and that you can even
wear them upside down. It would be interesting to see if this is true, or if it means walking on your hands.”

STAT Divisions
Jury comments: “STAT Division has a very beautiful philosophy and its designs are characterized by Feminine, nautical and sporty elements. Important to note is the use of luxurious fabrics and the avoidance of haberdasheries. The brand has a clear vision of sustainability and biodiversity. The concept of biodiversity is well understood and explained, biodiversity-friendly choices are clear and the plan is easy to read.”

Photography by Menno Vermeulen, 9meter.nl

Category 2 finalists:
Oh my bag
Jury comments: “This labels presents accessories that are classical with a slightly fashionable twist. The used materials are very well sourced, and give the designs the must-have factor. The plan is well thought through with a clear vision on sustainability and is also feasible from an operational point of view.” One jury member said: “It would be a great way to end your life as a retired Indian cow. I would be interested in buying the bag based on the story alone, even though I don’t need a bag.”

Carrie Parry
Jury comments: “This label launches modern clothes with a nonchalant touch, which are for a sophisticated and conscious target market. The plan displays a sound knowledge on sustainability issues and biodiversity, including the right choice of materials and a strong supply chain focus. Sustainability is thoroughly integrated in the work of the company by means of a clear mission, values and guiding principles on sustainability.”

Zaida Adriana Goveo Balmaseda
Jury comments: “The focus in this collection lies on the outspoken use of handcrafted materials. Fabrics are hand-dyed and quilted and knits are made from hand-spun yarns. This in combination with multifunctional designs make the label really exiting. The business plan shows a good knowledge of sustainability issues and covers more than just the right choice of materials. Like the designer says: ‘It’s more than the clothes, my work should be a catalyst for positive change.’”

Narelle Dore
Jury comments: “This label presents a niche market product with strong focus on an artisanal approach and internal motivations. People that buy this product will probably never throw it away. Use of sustainable materials and a low energy production by hand completes the picture for biodiversity. The label presents without a doubt one of the most experimental collections. Dresses and tops are constructed from kilometres of woollen yarn. The colour palette is soft and subtle. Though the designs remind us of the flapper dresses from the twenties, they are at the same time fresh and avant-garde”

Next steps
The eight finalists will receive their personal feedback and guidance to make their business plan and pitch their concepts to the judges. At the finals of The Green Fashion Competition they will show three outfits on the catwalk during Amsterdam Fashion Week 25-29 January 2012.

All of the workshops that took place can now be viewed online by clicking here. Topics covered are biodiveristy and the relation to raw materials, water, chemicals and land, writing a business plan, networking and materials an innovation. with a great thanks to: CREM, ALTERRA, ALTERRA ILRI, MODINT, TEXTILE EXCHANGE, KICI, KVK, PWC, GOED&GROEN, RABOBANK, MADE-BY, V2 and BY-WIRE.NET.

NEW WEBSITE: Organice your life

2011-12-21T09:28:00.004+01:00

What do you think of the new Organice Your Life website?
www.organiceyourlife.com

2011-12-15T09:33:00.003+01:00

Xmass shopping + drinks night @ Charlie + Mary

WITH HUGE DISCOUNTS FOR OUR FRIENDS!!!

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You're invited for some exclusive Xmass shopping on Monday Dec 19th. Come and join us on this cozy pre-sale night. There's discounts up to 40% on selected items. And an extra 10% for our Charlie + Mary friends on this night only!

Monday December 19th

6pm-9pm

Charlie + Mary conceptstore, Gerard Doustraat 84, Amsterdam

2011-12-15T09:10:00.001+01:00

SheSuit stylish and durable

2011-11-21T10:07:00.005+01:00

A suit never disappears out of fashion, SheSuit designs stylish design for women. In order to develop a sustainable collection they use Lea Silk. The silk is exclusively hand-woven and is known for its brilliant color. Furthermore, no toxic chemicals and industrial machinery are used in the process.

Lea Silk is produced in the village of Ban Reng Khai,Thailand. In 2001, by the Dutch artist and textile specialist Leah Laarakker Dinjan the 'Ban Reng Khai Foundation'. The organization is a non-profit company that helps develop hand-made silk fabrics and sold through direct sales in Thailand and beyond.

The summer collection SheSuit can now be viewd in the showroom of M*PR.

Source4Style has some exciting news to share with you.

2011-11-17T16:57:00.000+01:00

After a year in Beta, Source4Style will be launching its 2.0 site. The new platform will feature more materials, a brand new trends section and a pretty big facelift to make it even easier to search and source the best sustainable materials from around the globe.

Our Premium Level Membership for designers will give you access to direct-from-supplier pricing on all materials in the growing marketplace, complimentary trend reports, sustainability certifications & materials tests downloads and much more.

If you've visited Source4Style as of yesterday, you'll notice we have replaced the site with a Coming Soon message meaning that we are on the homestretch to launching this exciting new phase for Source4Style.

Go ahead and visit Source4Style at www.source4style.com to get a discount code of $100 off a Premium Level Designer Membership, giving you access to all of the above benefits and exclusive partnership discounts.

Simply sign up on the site and share on your social networks.

Meet Your Scarf by Elsien Gringhuis

2011-11-08T12:44:00.001+01:00

Amsterdam International Fashion Week designer, winner of the Green Fashion Competition, Elsien Gringhuis has designed a 100% cotton fair trade certified scarf. A special project in collaboration with Charlie+Mary.

'Meet Your Scarf'

Charlie+Mary are well known for selecting true sustainable fashion labels from designers to beautiful vintage pieces. The duo has a concept store with its own web shop offering worldwide shipping. Passionate about our environment, researching under what conditions and guidelines all are made. For “Meet your Scarf” project, Charlie & Mary went to Gujarat in India following the whole process from the cotton-fields to the factory, the making of from a to z.

Elsien Gringhuis designed an extra long scarf wearable on both sides in pepper green and saxony blue. Eco friendly with 100% fair trade certified cotton.

The scarf is available on- and offline at Charlie+Mary, London’ 69 B Broadway Market and Germany’s Zuendstoff

SYMPOSIUM TEXTIELCOMMISSIE NEDERLAND

2011-11-07T10:06:00.001+01:00

DUURZAAMHEID EN TEXTIEL

Datum: donderdag 17 november 2011

Locatie: Saxion Hogeschool

Op 17 november 2011 wordt door Stichting Textielcommissie Nederland een symposium georganiseerd over Duurzaamheid en Textiel.

Textiel is een massaproduct en wegwerpartikel geworden. Het produceren van textiel vergt
enorme hoeveelheden water, energie en chemicaliën. Jaarlijks gooien we 235 miljoen kilo
textiel weg. Deze afvalberg vervuilt de lucht en het grondwater. Het roer moet om. Duurzame
textiel staat daarom momenteel volop in de belangstelling. Maar wat is echt duurzaam, welke
productiemethodes en materialen zijn nu werkelijk milieu- en mensvriendelijk?

Tine Luyt, coördinator van het Project Duurzaam Hoger Onderwijs/Mode, is de eerste spreekster. Het project beoogt via de website ‘Modebewust.nu’ Maatschappelijk Verantwoord Ondernemen (MVO) en ontwikkelingen in de modebranche en het modeonderwijs toegankelijk te maken voor studenten, organisaties, bedrijven, opleidingen en andere geïnteresseerden.

Gerrit Bouwhuis, docent en researcher Creatieve Technologie aan de Saxion Hogeschool
heeft een voorbehandelingsproces voor katoen op basis van enzymen ontwikkeld en vertelt hoe hiermee aanzienlijk op water en energie kan worden bespaard.
www.saxion.nl

Dorien Derksen, manager research, development en productie van Rubia Natural Colours,
onderzoekt de mogelijkheden en ontwikkelt de processen om, met behulp van de rode kleurstof
alizarine uit meekrap, 100% natuurlijke verfstoffen te maken.
www.rubiapigmentanaturalia.nl

In het kader van recycling is er in de lunchpauze een textielruil waarbij iedere deelnemer
één stuk textiel, in goede conditie uit eigen kast, kan aanbieden om onderling te ruilen. Daarnaast biedt de Saxion Hogeschool een rondleiding aan over de afdeling Technische Commerciële Textielkunde.

Na de pauze licht Annette Schümer, medeoprichter van BiomimicryNL, de wetenschap toe die zich, op zoek naar nieuwe uitvindingen, laat inspireren door de techniek van de biologie. Annette laat voorbeelden zien van duurzame, op de natuur geïnspireerde textiel. www.biomimicry.org

Anton Luiken, project-manager van Texperium, het open innovatiecentrum voor hoogwaardige herverwerking van textiel, vertelt over het herwinnen van vezels uit consumententextiel om daarmee producten met een hogere toegevoegde waarde te maken, dus geen recycling, maar upcycling.
www.texperium.eu

De dag zal worden afgesloten met een kritische nabeschouwing van Ger Brinks, lector Smart Functional Materials aan de Saxion Hogeschool, over de vraag:

‘wat is nu werkelijk duurzame textiel?’

Hierna is er gelegenheid tot het stellen van vragen en discussie.

Het symposium staat onder leiding van dagvoorzitter Annemarie den Dekker, conservator mode en kostuum van het Amsterdam Museum. De werkgroep die de dag georganiseerd heeft is samengesteld uit: Mieke Albers, Ninke Bloemberg, Jolanda Branderhorst, Astrid Hage,
Linda Hanssen, Annette Kipp, Liesbeth van Ravels.

Programma
09.30 - 10.30
Inschrijving en ontvangst met koffie en thee
10.30 - 10.35
Welkom en uitleg over de opleiding
Technische Commerciële Textielkunde aan de Saxion Hogeschool Enschede
Erna Engelen, opleidingscoördinator
10.40 - 10.45
Mededelingen Textielcommissie Nederland
Loan Oei, voorzitter Textielcommissie Nederland
10.50 - 10.55
Inleiding op het programma door de dagvoorzitter
Annemarie den Dekker, conservator mode en kostuum Amsterdam Museum
11.00 - 11.20
Duurzame ontwikkelingen in de mode
Tine Luyt, coördinator Modebewust.nu, Duurzaam Hoger Mode- en Textielonderwijs
11.25 - 11.45
Een milieu- en energiebesparende voorbehandeling van katoen
Gerrit Bouwhuis, docent en researcher Creatieve Technologie, Saxion Hogeschool Enschede
11.50 - 12.15
Het ontwikkelen en toepassen van meekrap als biologische verfstof
Dorien Derksen, manager research, development en productie Rubia Natural Colours
12.15 - 12.25
Gelegenheid tot het stellen van vragen
12.30 - 14.30
Lunch met textielruil en rondleiding door de afdeling
Technische Commerciële Textielkunde van de Saxion Hogeschool
14.30 - 14.50
Biomimicry - duurzame textiel geïnspireerd op de natuur
Annette Schümer, BiomimicryNL
14.55 - 15.15
Textielrecycling, nut en noodzaak
Anton Luiken, project-manager Texperium
15.20 - 15.40
Nabeschouwing duurzame textiel
Ger Brinks, lector Smart Functional Materials, Saxion Hogeschool Enschede
15.40 - 15.50
Gelegenheid tot vragen en discussie
15.50 - 16.15
Afsluiting met koffie en thee

2011-11-03T15:50:00.002+01:00

2011-11-03T14:53:00.003+01:00

PERSBERICHT

ECOFABS Fashion Party powered by ECOVER tijdens de Margriet Winter Fair
Vintage fashion event goed voor milieu én voor eigen portemonnee
Het Ecofabs team organiseert samen met Margriet een Ecofabs Fashion Party powered by ECOVER tijdens de Margriet Winter Fair in de Jaarbeurs te Utrecht. Bezoekers kunnen daar van 18 tot en met 24 november 2011 dagelijks in een feestelijke ambiance een nieuwe vintage garderobe volledig duurzaam bij elkaar shoppen zonder geld uit te geven. Want waarom zou je dat tiende jurkje kopen, als je er al negen in de kast hebt hangen? De Ecofabs Fashion Party verleidt consumenten tot een duurzame lifestyle en laat hen zelf ervaren hoe ze met hun meegebrachte kleding een ander én zichzelf verwennen.
Hoe werkt de Ecofabs Fashion Party
Lever tijdens de Margriet Winter Fair maximaal drie kledingstukken in die niet meer in je garderobe passen bij de stylisten van de Ecofabs Fashion Party. Het is de bedoeling dat de kleding er nog goed uitziet en fashionable is, het liefst van mooie designmerken of vintage, maar H&M-etjes en de Zara collectie mogen ook. Schoenen, tassen en accessoires zijn ook welkom. Stylistes beoordelen de kleding en geven bezoekers in ruil hiervoor ‘fabs’ – stickers in drie categorieën - waarmee ze een nieuwe garderobe kunnen samenstellen en daarna zorgeloos kunnen stallen bij de Boodschappen Bewaar Service van de Margriet Winter Fair.
Samenwerking Ecofabs en Ecover
Mooie vintage kleren verdienen een goed duurzaam wasmiddel. Daarom is ECOVER als het grootste merk van ecologische was ‐ en schoonmaakproducten in Europa partner van Ecofabs tijdens de Margriet Winter Fair. ECOVER en Ecofabs hebben als gezamenlijk doel consumenten te inspireren om duurzaam te consumeren en zo een bijdrage te leveren aan een beter milieu. De Ecofabs Fashion Party powered by ECOVER laat vrouwen zien hoe een duurzame ervaring hand in hand kan gaan met een gevoel voor stijl.
Ecofabs en Margriet
De Ecofabs Fashion Party wordt stylish vormgegeven door de stylisten van Margriet en is te vindenboven in de Toren op het Modeplein in Hal 1 in de Jaarbeurs Utrecht. De Margriet Winter Fair is van 18 tot en met 24 november 2011 dagelijks geopend van 10.00 tot 18.00 uur. Voor meer informatie over Ecofabs zie www.ecofabs.nl. Voor meer informatie over de Margriet Winter Fair en het bestellen van kaarten voor deze feestelijke Fair ziewww.margrietwinterfair.nl

Cultuurnacht AUDAX Textile Museum Tilburg

2011-10-28T12:01:00.001+02:00

During the first ‘cultuurnacht’ in Tilburg the AUDAX Textile Museum Tilburg opens its doors at unusual times with an exciting programme for the real fashionistas and design lovers. Special films, outrageous performances, surprising encounters and the dance floor with snacks and drinks create an unforgettable evening.

Highlights of the night:
- Bas Kosters and his fashion team
- ‘Meneer Broekjevol & Mevrouw Bloesjevol’
- Fashion photographer Peter Stigter and team
- Bart Hess and Lucy McRae
- Studio FormaFantasma
- CosyMo’s Solar-Cinema & Brabantse filmmakers
- Workshop ‘Verlicht je t-shirt’

For more information www.tilburgtextiles.nl or www.textielmuseum.nl

2011-10-12T18:30:00.003+02:00

The Shortlist for The Green Fashion Competition has been announced!!

2011-10-06T18:45:00.003+02:00

Amsterdam International Fashion Week signs Green Deal with Dutch Design Week and the Netherlands Architecture Institute

The Dutch fashion week and minister Verhagen (Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation) have signed for interdisciplinary collaboration and sustainability in the creative sector.

AMSTERDAM, OCTOBER 7th, 2011 - Amsterdam International Fashion Week (AIFW), Dutch Design Week (DDW) and the Netherlands Architecture Institute (NAI) have combined forces to stimulate interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation and a green shift in the creative industry. The government is facilitating the green growth of the economy by means of the Sustainability Agenda and the Green Deal by mediating between parties with different interests and by providing the necessary information.

The Green Fashion Competition
For the second time AIFW and the Dutch Ministry of EL&I have launched The Green Fashion Competition: an international fashion competition that encourages entrepreneurs to create 'green' and ‘catwalk worthy’ fashion. After the success of the first edition - over 180 designers from around the world participated and learned how a to establish a successful and socially responsible company - Minister Verhagen gave the organization a green light for a second edition and the organization was granted the opportunity to expand its concept to other areas of the creative industry.

Amsterdam International Fashion Week (AIFW), Dutch Design Week (DDW) and the Netherlands Architecture Institute (NAI)
Fashion, design and architecture are the cornerstones of the creative industries. For the Amsterdam International Fashion Week was a logical step for the Dutch Design Week Dutch Architecture Institute and a partnership approach. Besides cross-sectoral cooperation organizations also look to the regions of Amsterdam, Eindhoven and Rotterdam closer together.

Start projects
The deadline for participants to register for The Green Fashion Competition has just passed. The selected participants will be announced later today. Dutch Design Week and the Netherlands Architecture Institute’s projects will be launched in their own sector, in the coming months. During the 16th edition of Amsterdam International Fashion Week in January 2012, the bundled projects will celebrate a combined kick-off in the presence of Minister Verhagen.

Buy a watch, plant a tree

2011-10-03T15:53:00.001+02:00

Sustainably-minded (100% natural wood and for each watch purchased a tree is planted) materials in combination with European craftsmanship; WeWood watches. The brand offers up a line of tasteful Miyota-movement timepieces crafted from several varieties of Maple, Guaiaco (an indigenous South American tree) and Red Wing Celtis. Devoid of any colored stains as well as toxic chemicals, the natural shades and grains of the different wood types shine through for an organic take on oft-metallic or plastic watches.

WeWood; the eco-chic option for all the fashion-forward, free thinking individuals out there, and a way to feel good about what you’re wearing!

London Fashion Week Esthethica – Esthethica Yooxygen

2011-09-22T14:21:00.002+02:00

For the eleventh season Estethica formed a significant part of the London Fashion Week Exhibition. This year Estethica has celebrated its 5th anniversary, ten seasons. Estethica welcomed nineteen cutting edge designers for spring/summer 2012, chosen for their design excellence and commitment to working in a sustainable way. All designers adhere to at least one of the key Estethica principles of fair-trade and ethical practice in the production process; the inclusion of organic fibres and the use of recycled materials and fabrics.

For the third consecutive time, online retailer Yoox.com gives you the opportunity to get a close look at the feature pieces from six of Esthethica’s leading green designers; From somewhere, Goodone, Maxjenny, Sonya Kashmiri, Henrietta Ludgate and Lost Proporty of London. You don’t have to look any futher, just go to Yooxygen’s latest shop-within-a-shop on yoox.com.

New innovations on the green textile market!

2011-09-16T16:25:00.002+02:00

How to reduce your ‘ecological footprint’? Together with companies in the European linen industry, Linen Dream Lab created a modest fiber which needs no irrigation, little fertilizing when cultivated and which is processed automatically. This ‘low-impact’ approach is soon to be the heart of the textile research undertaken by the Linen Dream Lab.

In the Spring-Summer 2012 and Fall- Winter fashion developments we will see non-toxic Oeko Tex dyes, reactive low-impact GOTS-certified dyes and crease-free linens with formaldehyde-free treatments in closed circuit processing. At the moment double-face bonding already guarantees a bonding process without toxic glue or formaldehyde!
Different innovations are still in process and are soon to be expected on the textile market. With these processes the Linen Dream Lab is pioneering themselves as a fast forward thinker on the eco-friendly textile market.

For more information check: www.masteroflinen.com

2011-07-05T20:25:00.002+02:00

AIFW was thrilled to receive this notification today!

Sublime Magazine is pleased to award
Amsterdam International Fashion Week
with the Black Badge for
Best International Fashion Week 2011

"Sublime Magazine is pleased to give AIFW the Best International Fashion Show 2011 Award. Like Sublime Magazine, AIFW values sustainability and innovation, and has encouraged hundreds of new, talented designers around the world to embrace ethical standards in the fashion industry and consideration for the environment. AIFW also deserves this recognition for organising The Green Fashion Competition, providing training, promoting and investing in a new generation of talented designers. Most importantly, this competition has been well integrated into the main show, proving that sustainability and fashion can go hand in hand."

Damian & Laura Santamaria
Sublime Magazine

Sublime Magazine Award was successfully launched In 2009,
and it aims to reward brands individual and organisations that are inspiration for a sustainable world
Sublime selected pioneering brands that have empathy towards people and the environment and/or have made
groundbreaking innovations in this sphere.

Past awarded
Weleda, Aveda, Grampus Heritage, Natural Empathy, Linden Leaves, Suti, Bodhi, Kyoku,
UNE Bourjois, The Organic Pharmacy, E-side

The launch of The Green Fashion Competition

2011-06-23T16:08:00.004+02:00

Dear friend of The Green Fashion Competition,

During the 15th edition of AIFW, taking place from 13th till 17th of July, Saturday 16th will focus on green fashion with the launch of The Green Fashion Competition, season 2 at 19h00. International topmodel and ambassador Lonneke Engel will officially open the second edition of The Green Fashion Competition in a unique multimedia setting. Second prize winner of the first edition of TGFC, OAT Shoes, will present their new product line: The Limited Skin Collection in honor of the competition. After winning the second prize, the first ‘Virgin Collection' by OAT Shoes found its way to stores in the Netherlands and Belgium and is receiving enthusiastic responses worldwide as the ‘blooming shoes from Amsterdam’.

The Green Fashion Competition
AIFW and the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation initiated The Green Fashion Competition to inspire and encourage a change towards a more sustainable fashion industry. By offering a complete ‘prize pack’ they provide the prize winners with the tools to really start as a fashion business. Besides cash prizes The Green Fashion Competition provides young entrepreneurs with business related workshops, coaching, connection to the AIFW network and a platform during the 16th edition of AIFW. The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has recently launched a partnership with The Green Fashion Competition to support the competition’s efforts in identifying talented entrepreneurs.

Competition Ambassador Lonneke Engel
Throughout the competition each submission will be judged by a professional jury. Lonneke Engel (international supermodel and founder of Organice Your Life®) is one of the judges and is also the ambassador of The Green Fashion Competition. For the second season of TGFC Lonneke modeled unique ‘green fashion’ garments in a stunning series with photographer Jouke Bos, which can exclusively be used for TGFC publications. In the attached campaign image Lonneke is featured wearing Elsien Gringhuis.

Participation
Unlike the first edition, the competition has currently been divided into two categories. The first category is for fashion entrepreneurs who are already working in the fashion industry and who aspire to lift their company to a higher plane in the (international) market. The first prize in this category is € 25.000, -.
Young fashion creatives and graduates who are starting out, can register for the second category with first prize € 15.000, -.
From July 16th until September 30th 2011, anyone with a vision of 'the future of fashion’ can register either as an individual or as a team. Participation is open for Dutch as well as international applicants. Conditions and more information (concerning participation in) the competition can be found at:
WWW.THEGREENFASHIONCOMPETITION.COM

Successful first edition
The first season of The Green Fashion Competition was launched in July 2010 with over 180 entries, from all over the world. After the first selection, 40 remaining participants were invited to participate in a series of workshops. From these 40 finalists the jury selected eight who had a chance to further develop their business plan and present their designs during the "Grand Finale'' at AIFW in January 2011. Dutch designer Elsien Gringhuis won the first prize of € 25,000, - and OAT (Shoes that Bloom) came in second and won € 15,000.

Elsien Gringhuis: "I've learned a lot from The Green Fashion Competition and the workshops that were held there. That in itself I found to be fantastic. The award itself is a huge boost for my business and gives me the opportunity to launch the production. This is a difficult issue for any designer without capital. "

The Green Fashion Competition: Sewing the seeds for the future of fashion

For more information on The Green Fashion Competition and information about registrations visit our new website: www.thegreenfashioncompetition.com

Sustainable Amsterdam

2011-06-20T15:40:00.003+02:00

Ecofabs Fashion & Lifestyle is part of Amsterdam Duurzaam. This year the event will take place 3 july 2011, at the Westergas area. Sustainable fashionistas can participate in workshops on sustainable clothing, enjoy a green beauty treatment or swop their clothes at the Ecofabs Fashion Party.

2011-06-20T15:06:00.001+02:00

Louise Vet is the Director at Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) and Professor in Evolutionary Ecology at Wageningen University. Here she talks about the 'economic crisis', 'raw materials' and energy > The Circular Economy.

TEDxAmsterdam: Louise Vet from TEDxAmsterdam on Vimeo.

2011-06-20T15:05:00.000+02:00

2011-06-07T09:29:00.002+02:00

Material World. Arts, Design, Fashion.

The Groninger Museum has a current exhibition showcasing the work of eight artists, designers and fashion designers.

The exhibition shows works by Pieke Bergmans, Nacho Carbonell, Iris van Herpen, Maartje Korstanje, Joris Laarman, Alon Levin, Karen Sargsyan and Marga Weimans. Many works were created specifically for this exhibition. Use of materials research and materials play an important role. This role is reflected in unexpected and radical choice of materials and in new technologies that artists use to produce their work.

Great inspiration for future participants of TGFC!

DOEN | Materiaalprijs

2011-06-06T15:08:00.003+02:00

DOEN|Materiaalprijs the artists from the future are challenged to use new, sustainable and innovative materials and techniques in their designs. Subscription deadline 10 June 2011.

Fashioning The Future Awards

2011-05-26T16:27:00.004+02:00

Thankfully AIFW is not the only organisation to hold a sustainable fashion competition. Our friends at the Centre for Sustainable Fashion in London are hosting another season of the ‘Fashioning The Future Awards’.

Enrol before the 15th of June!

Fashioning the Future hands out awards in five different categories. Unique Design, Unique Enterprise, Unique Communication, Unique Balance and Unique materials and processes.

Sustainable Sunglasses

2011-05-20T14:03:00.003+02:00

Look Good – Do Good is the mission of this webshop with super hip sustainable wooden sunglasses. We think they are the best way to be cool in the sun!

Beauty in Science

2011-05-12T16:55:00.000+02:00

A unique exhibition at the Boijmans van Beuningen museum in Rotterdam. The last two years more than 100 scientists are approached to collect image of beauty in science. At Boijmans van Beuningen you can for a change take a look at images and movies from the world of sciences which are projected on the walls of some of the halls. You can visit the exhibition till 05 June 2011.

2011-04-13T09:14:00.001+02:00

Our competition ambassador Lonneke Engels' latest magazine is out! Organice Your Life, all about cleaning, clensing and starting afresh!
Perfect inspiration for future enrollees of TGFC!

H&M Conscious Collection

2011-04-11T14:03:00.005+02:00

H&M Conscious Collection

H&M will introduce its new ‘Conscious Collection’ made from environmentally – adapted and greener materials such as organic cotton, Tencel® and recycled polyester in all H&M stores from 14th April.

The major high-street retailer illustrates that the possibilities for creating a complete fashion statement with eco smarter materials are increasing.

Conscious materials:

Organic Cotton:
Is cotton that has been grown without the use of hazardous chemicals

Organic Linen:
Is linen that has been growth without the use of hazardous chemicals

Recycled Polyester:
Is polyester made from pet bottles or textile waste

Tencel:
Silky renewable material produced with minimal environmental

H&M Conscious Collection SS11 from Barracuda Film & TV on Vimeo.

2011-04-04T17:27:00.002+02:00

Last Wednesday The Green Fashion Competition celebrated a successful first season with a delicious dinner at De Culinaire Werkplaats. Our jury members, the AIFW team and of course the eight finalists all enjoyed a unique meal (and of course ample biological wine). The ‘culinary workshop’ in Amsterdam created a delicious menu tailored to the competition with the theme ‘Green is the New Black’.

Here's a picture of the delicious 'black' bramble Dessert

And here you can see us at the dining table!

2011-03-24T14:38:00.001+01:00

For everyone situated in Amsterdam, there’s a great expo in town called TransNatural. TransNatural is all about a rich and new hybrid world where nature and technology is increasingly becoming fused. Different artists and designers have explored possible future scenario’s where these two factors are entwined and demonstrate how our world can be effected.

From simple window-gardening systems, to Google cloud (yes the kind in the sky) services that tint the colour of the atmosphere when oxygen levels sink and a self-sufficient kitchen, which creates gas based on the structure of the human body.

If you’re not in Amsterdam, no worries, the expo is expertly documented on the TransNatural website here!

2011-03-03T09:11:00.004+01:00

At AIFW we love London - and what's not to love with the Ethical Fashion Forum's Source Show coming to town!

A perfect place for all of those people who struggle to find suitable sustainable fabrics for their brands.

If you're not yet acquainted with the Ethical Fashion Forum, it's definitely time to become so. As an ethical brand you can list your company on their directory. Futhermore they offer a great overview of everything going on in sustainable fashion land in their calendar and have a networkwhere you can discuss everything you are succeeding and struggling in and find future partners and business connections.

We're big fans!

2011-02-25T12:17:00.002+01:00

So it seems that video is completely taking over from text on the blog the last few weeks. And it is going to continue to do so for just a little more. During AIFW, Vodafone and AIFW joined forces to discover opportunites and threats in the Dutch fashion industry.

The most inspiring 'movers and shakers' from in fashion and other industries were invited to discuss topics such as the position of Dutch fashion internationally and sustainability in fashion.

Here's a video (Dutch language!) about sustainability in fashion.

For more information about the Vodafone & AIFW initiative please visit the Vodafone Creative Corner blog here.

2011-02-18T15:04:00.001+01:00

MTV was at the grand finale show that took place during AIFW. They just published a great video online, showcasing the eight finalists!

MTV Was Here | EP 5 | Green Fashion Competition
Tags: <a href="http://www.mtv.nl">MTV Netherland</a>

2011-02-07T09:57:00.002+01:00

Our friends at Zideo sent us this great video that was shot during The Green Fashion Competition finale. It includes interviews with visitors, parts of the show and of course the moment suprème:

Thank you Zideo!

2011-02-02T16:19:00.003+01:00

If you had to miss out on the show (and the goodiebag), don't fret as one of the cooperating parties (The Linen and Hemp Community) has just mailed me this cool video all about the super sustainable textiles.

BE LINEN MOVIE from Linen and hemp community

2011-02-01T17:08:00.020+01:00

Besides the amazing show there was a lot going on behind the scènes for the grand finale last Thursday.

Here are a few backstage images so you can share the exciting atmosphere with us!

All photography: Michiel Langbroek

2011-02-01T16:57:00.003+01:00

Team Peter Stigter are the best catwalk photographers in the whole of The Netherlands. Besides shooting all of the major fashion weeks, they also provide an insight into the shows and attendees. For example with their streetstyle pics and their goodiebag evaluations.

Unfortunately we didn't receive the highest marks for The Green Fashion Goodiebag - I think we should have had bonus points for originality though (we had a cactus!)

PICTURE FROM: TEAM PETER STIGTER

2011-02-01T16:29:00.005+01:00

Last Thursday was the moment that we've been building up to for over six months.. The Grand finale of The Green Fashion Competition.

Out of the eight talented finalists, two entrepreneurs were awarded the first and second prizes. The team behind OAT shoes walked away with a second prize of €15.000,- and fashion designer Elsien Grinhuis won the first prize of €25.000,-

50% of both of the winners final mark was based on their previously submitted business plans, and 50% was spent on their designs and the execution of their designs.

Lonneke Engel (project ambassador, wearing Stella Mc Cartney) and Paul Vetter (Dutch ministry of Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation) awarded the cheques on behalf of the whole jury who attended the show.

To see the show click on this link.

ALL PHOTOGRAPHY: PETER STIGTER

2011-01-25T18:46:00.001+01:00

This is the AIFW magazine for January 2011. See the schedule, great interviews and fantastic tips for surviving AIFW!

Open publication - Free publishing - More fashion

2011-01-25T15:01:00.000+01:00

Amsterdam International Fashion Week will live stream all of its catwalk shows on the internet for the first time in its history. The streams will allow fashion followers from all of the world to enjoy the shows instead of them being visible to a mere select group of fashion professionals in the Netherlands. The video’s will be viewable at www.amsterdamfashionweek.com during and after Amsterdam International Fashion Week takes place.

All shows can be followed live on the official AIFW website, from the exclusive Opening Soirée with which AIFW kicks off the Dutch fashion week, to The Green Fashion Competition and until the closing show on Sunday evening. Social media and the official AIFW website will actively communicate the streaming timeslots and when each show starts.

2011-01-21T13:33:00.004+01:00

Have you ever wondered how we got such amazing imagery for in The Green Fashion Competition manual?

At the beginning of contest a hard working team of talents got together to give TGFC an image - that of breaking boundaries between sustainability and exciting, cool fashion.

Instead of just gracing the pages of our manual, the pictures have been featured everywhere, from free Amsterdam magazine NL30 to the nationally circulated newspaper De Pers.

The Green Fashion Team at AIFW would like to say a big thank you to:

Photographer: Bob van Rooijen (visit his website to see more of his great work!)
Stylist: Mirjam de Ruiter (and visit her website to see more of her great work!)

Model: Wendy van de Wouw from Modelution
Hair & Make-up artist: Aga Urbanowicz from Angelique Hoorn Agency

and also to Cezanne Noordhoek & Bas Zwartepoorte who video'd the shoot and edited into our promotional video (see right!).

Thank you!

2011-01-18T14:27:00.002+01:00

Nukuhiva is a stunning Polynesian island and is also the shop concept by Floortje Dessing that combines beautiful fashion and sustainability.

After the Grand Finale of The Green Fashion Competition, the first and second prize winners' collections will be presented in the Nukuhiva store on the Haarlemmerstraat in Amsterdam.

Make sure to visit from the 28th of January, to see our winning designers work and bag yourself a sustainable fashion item or two!

2011-01-18T10:02:00.003+01:00

Things are getting hot and heavy at the AIFW headquarters as Amsterdam International Fashion Week is just a week away! In preparation for the Grand Finale of The Green Fashion Competition we have been exploring the 'sound' of green fashion and came to one conclusion: it's a cool one!

Dj Milo Moraes is going to be taking the stage during the award show, sending the models pumping down the runway. Listen to one of his great tracks through the link below, or visit his soundcloud.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Marijn Smulders
INFECTIOUS MUSIC by Milo Moraes

We're extremely pleased to have bagged such a great DJ and can't wait for the show!

2010-12-22T09:21:00.003+01:00

The Green Fashion Competition's favourite online magazine is Organice Your Life, a fun, cool and sexy guide of all things that contribute to making your own life a healthier, happier and greener one.

Our lovely ambassador Lonneke Engel has produced yet another amazing video (moviestar in the making?) together with top model's Annemarie van Dijk and Valentina Zelyeava which was directed by superstar photographer Alique, all just wishing you happy holiday's! I had to share it :)

2010-12-20T13:41:00.003+01:00

It's nearly time for a new edition of Amsterdam International Fashion Week (and of course the Grand Finale of The Green Fashion Competition!) Check out the whole fashion week schedule online

2010-12-20T10:43:00.007+01:00

Our friends at awareness fashion recently notified me on a great (Dutch) article by fashionscene on green fashion. Check it out by clicking here. The picture is of our ambassador Lonneke (wearing Kuyichi)!

2010-12-20T10:34:00.003+01:00

Pretty interesting Cradle2Cradle event for the new year (featuring one of The Green Fashion Competition finalists OAT)

Speech of Annemarie Commandeur

2010-12-15T09:42:00.004+01:00

The first award ceremony was a big success. Annemarie Commandeur gave an inspiring speech about biodiversty and fashion. For those who couldn't be there or for those who want to read it again, read her speech here: http://www.amsterdamfashionweek.com/greenfashion/speech-anne-marie-commandeur

2010-12-02T16:48:00.002+01:00

Our ambassador Lonneke Engel congratulates the 8 finalists of The Green Fashion Competition!

Lonneke Engel congratulating finalists of TGFC from Holly Syrett on Vimeo.

2010-12-02T11:04:00.002+01:00

Ever fancied a tad of moddeling? If so, I've just found a great reason to follow your calling and become a Studio Jux (sustainable) model!

Click on the flyer to follow the link and find more information.

2010-11-26T10:26:00.005+01:00

Last night the first award ceremony of The Green Fashion Competition took place in George Deli U.S.A in Amsterdam. A full schedule including a speach by Paul Vetter from the Dutch ministry of Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation and an inspiring talk by Trend Watcher of The Year in the category Fashion & Design, Anne Marie Commandeur.

The eight finalists are:

Bright Young Things
Elsien Gringhuis
Farrow & Tan
Gomes Esser Design
NÔN BY KIM
OAT
Viral
Winde Rienstra

A few pics from the ceremony:

Anne Marie Commandeur (Trend Watcher of The Year in the category Fashion & Design)

Team Gomes Esser

Paul Vetter from the Dutch ministry of Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation

2010-11-25T11:05:00.002+01:00

And another fantastic publication about _vitaverto festival and The Green Fashion Competition in NL20:

Open publication - Free publishing - More uitgaan

2010-11-25T10:05:00.001+01:00

Great publication (yes, sorry it's Dutch) in nationally distributed free newspaper DePers.. Everyone's getting excited for this afternoon's first award ceremony!

2010-10-31T14:40:00.002+01:00

Wijnand Broer is the deputy director at CREM - sustainability consultants and is also one of the judges for The Green Fashion Competition. A while back I mentioned in The Green Fashion Manual that CREM published a very useful document concerning cotton that could be of use if you're doing anything with cotton.

Here's the document, hope it helps (and thank you CREM!)

Open publication - Free publishing - More sustainable

2010-10-31T14:31:00.001+01:00

As mentioned in The Green Fashion Manual, there are a few handy documents that could be useful during the process of the competition. One of these documents is called 'Guidelines' and is a publication by the Danish Sustainable Solution Design Association.

Download your own copy here: Guidelines - A handbook on the environment for the textile and fashion industry

2010-10-27T12:21:00.002+02:00

Our last, but definitely not least workshop expert (number 5) are duo Peter Schuitema and Debbie Wester from sustainable denim brand Kuyichi. Peter is also one of the owners behind sustainable retail outlet Nukuhiva; a Fair Trade concept by Floortje Dessing.

To start their workshop Debbie and Peter elaborated on the importance of commerciality for any healthy company and how Kuyichi started out.
Kuyichi: “10 years ago – fairtrade was ‘geitenwollensokken’ (Dutch for ‘goat wool socks, referring to a stuffy unfashionable image of sustainability). We are one of the first brands built on sustainable values. At Kuyichi we realise the importance of capturing the youth and that fashion can never be responsible without style, this was the birth of our focal point: Kuyichi = style conscious.”

Kuyichi currently has 272 retail outlets and is the number 3 selling denim brand in the Netherlands.

A question from the group came up: What will happen in 10 years’ time when everyone is sustainable?
Kuyichi: "Kuyichi is authentic in its sustainability, it’s part of our DNA, we haven’t just decided to go sustainable now everyone is doing it. This will form part of our differentiating aspects. Furthermore we are constantly researching and developing sustainable materials.
For example: recycled PET bottles currently has ‘A’ classification for sustainability as it retains its quality during recycling process. But what is A now, could be E tomorrow. We are constantly evolving and improving our sustainable options."

Where can you find an overview of the different material classifications?
Kuyichi: www.made-by.nl is a great and easy source. They have a lot of information on ethical and ecological aspects. Did you for example know that 250 million children under 14 still work worldwide? I found this information in one of the Made-By publications.

Where should you buy materials (as a starting designer)?
Kuyichi: "We can only speak out of our own experience. Kuyichi started off with a commercial product (jeans) to facilitate its fashion and lifestyle brand. This is a smart way to increase the value of your organization and then facilitate the products that are more expensive to develop."

How do you break through the normal fashion market?
Kuyichi: "We made a clear decision to not retail through the currently established (geitenwollensokken) ecological stores. Instead we chose the best stores. The relationship that you have with your retailers is extremely important. You have to convince them (eg of your profit margin and your story). If they believe in your brand, they will be able to sell it. The ‘fashion’ aspect in any ecologically supportive brand is key. You have to have a story, be different from the current offering and be esthetical."

Holly Syrett’s (AIFW) addition: “If I have the choice between a stunning dress and a less stunning but sustainable dress, I will pick the first.”

Kuyichi: “Sustainable clothing should not be equally esthetically pleasing as unsustainable fashion, it should be even more beautiful!”

Why did you launch Nukuhiva?
Kuyichi: “Nukuhiva is the place where real fashion and sustainability are united. It’s a cool shop where ‘fashion people’ want to shop.”

As a starting designer, isn’t it easier to just cut out the wholesaler and retailer, and for example retail online?
Kuyichi: “Obviously there are lower costs involved with online retailing. But you miss the relationship with the retailer, who facilitates sales. If you are just on the web, how will your consumer find you? How will you build a relationship and connect?”

Questions for Debbie / Peter? You know what to do!

2010-10-27T11:42:00.004+02:00

Monique Minkenberg and Rogier Brinker from AIFW’s leading sponsor ABN AMRO bank, both collaborated as the fourth‘speeddate-workshop-expert’. I wasn’t able to join them for a full half hour of speed dating, but did thankfully catch on to a few of the questions that they were asked:

In what way can a bank aid fashion designers in the transition to sustainability?
ABN: What you need to ask yourselves is, if there are investors specifically interested in green entrepreneurs? And how you will reach them. The most important thing for all investors is margin. If you can communicate your profit margin then you will find a suitable investor.

Does ABN AMRO do start-ups?
ABN: We do not do start-ups, since they are highly risky investments. We do nevertheless explore our network for customers.

What is the most important thing for a business plan?
ABN: We think the most important for a business plan is your risk analysis. It’s important to create different scenarios, your prognosis considering changing variables. What is a good, the best and the worst case scenario? And argument clearly what factors influence your corporation.

If you have any further questions for Monique / Rogier, please send an e-mail!

2010-10-27T11:16:00.002+02:00

Roosmarie Ruigrok is the Country Manager in Cotton at the Max Havelaar foundation and is the initiator of Clean & Unique. Roosmarie is very enthusiastic about greening the fashion business and therefore launched Clean&Unique to support starting fashion designers in making more sustainable clothing. All in all, the perfect workshop expert for The Green Fashion Competition.

The participants could fire away, asking important questions about running a business. A brief overview of these questions:

Is it important for the consumer to know everything about your company? ‘Transparency wise?’
The most important thing is to find your market and to tailor your communication to them. Who is your specific consumer? And what is important to them? Is it the social circumstances wherein your products are developed? The production manner of your materials? Of maybe the people behind the brand?

How can you acquire certification as a small company?
Cleans&Unique is a communual group linked to the Fairwear Foundation and social labels. As a starting designer you can join us and acquire the label for a small fee that is shared by the whole group. The more members, the less annual fee.

How can you participate with Clean&Unique?
- You need to be registered at the chamber of commerce
- Your profit may not exceed €250.000
- You need to be an established brand
- You ideally need to have at least one aspect of your production sorted out, as to contribute to the growing knowledge of the Clean&Unique community. It’s a give and take thing, you can’t just sign up without any input for the group benefit.

What should you focus on when you start up? Ecological aspects? Or social aspects? Production? Or marketing?
When you start it is most important to focus on your own interests. Whatever path you chose, it has to be true to yourself, and part of your DNA. What do you find important? Is it recycling, then start with the little things. Recycle at home, recycle at the office and then look how to incorporate it into your brand. Look further and take things step by step.

Any questions for Roosmarie? Email greenfashion@amsterdamfashionweek.com

2010-10-26T17:36:00.004+02:00

Speeddate-Expert number two is: Rob Godschalk

Rob Godschalk was an indispensable component of TGFC workshop and works at Ernst & Young. In an earlier interview this year, he mentioned the importance of Ernst&Young’s contribution to the Amsterdam International Fashion Week. He wants to share his knowledge and experience with the Dutch designers and help the fashion-industry to develop talents.

We asked him to be one of the Workshop Experts and he gave the participators helpful advice. The audience could ask a lot of questions, which he answered enthusiastically. I’ve summarized 4 handy questions.

The very first question for Rob was: ‘What is the most important thing for a start-up?’
Rob answered by highlighting the most important parts:
• You need experienced advisors
• Find an ambassador for your concept (someone who has established a name for his/herself in the industry).
• Work on your network and make sure to mingle at investor gatherings, business networks and relationship events (banking networks are for example a good place to bump in to knowhow and finances!)

Question number 2: ‘How do you approach investors, what is their interest?
• The most important thing is to acquire a personal connection with an investor. You have to share an interest in something and they must find something that they are interested with in you. Only once a relationship is established will it become possible to take the relationship further on a business level.
• The next step is to be clear and say that you would like to pitch your idea to the investor.

Question number 3: ‘How do you balance an investment and a stakeholders stake?’
• Consider that a healthy Return for an investor should be around 10 to 15 %
• Then calculate what stake will provide this percentage.
• It is important to make sure that you retain ownership of your company.
• Another good thing to consider is that acquiring an investor can provide a certain level of security for a bank, who might then be convinced (if an investor is making money, then the bank won’t be losing it) to give you a loan.

Question number 4: ‘When should you break even?’
You should expect to Break-Even between 3 – 5 years of starting up. At the moment the most important aspect of your business should nevertheless be your cash flow. With seemingly low investments (if you’re not buying houses or machines for example) your cash will ideally be your profit. It is important to have a crystal clear insight to what is coming in and going out of your company.. What is your cash flow!

For further queries, don’t hesitate to contact us!

2010-10-26T16:54:00.003+02:00

The second workshop for participants of The Green Fashion Competition took place last week Tuesday (19/11/10) and had a more flexible set-up: We did expert-speeddating!
The group of participants was split up into several smaller groups and was each assigned a table and an expert, then every half-an-hour I rang my 'sustainable bell' (it was a bike bell) and the experts changed tables.

I made sure to 'sit-in' with each expert and briefly summarised the topics covered.

During this blog I'll feature expert number one: Marije Hovestad - an innovation advisor from Syntens.

A few good tips that came up during one of Marije's expert speeddates:
*It is difficult for young upcoming designers to launch their designs on the market successfully. Fashion designers show their work with portfolio’s, but they need to think about what an investor wants to hear when presenting their work.

*Another problem in the fashion industry that really needs attention is the lack of sharing information. Less information is being shared among designers, when sharing information can benefit everyone. Find a group of people who deal with the same issues as you and share idea’s to achieve results.

*It is difficult for new fashion designers to compete on price with big brands, therefore Marije’s main tip is to compete on quality!

*Webshops might be a good (and cheap) solution to retail your products, but it takes a lot more to connect a consumer to a webshop in comparision to a full retail experience. It is therefore important to constantly connect to your consumer if you are using a website; consider writing a blog about you brand’s lifestyle for example.

*Furthermore it is important to create a good relationship with your target group and with your producer.

In addition, Marije also e-mailed me some handy (yet unfortunately Dutch) literature for people who are starting their innovative businesses.

Here's one, covering creativity and entrepreneurship:

Open publication - Free publishing - More syntens

And here's the other on social networks:

Open publication - Free publishing - More syntens

For any questions for Marije, again please don't hesitate to contact us through greenfashion@amsterdamfashionweek.com

2010-10-26T16:28:00.003+02:00

Peter Leferink was one of the lecturers during the first TGFC workshop. He is the creative director of Individuals and the head of design at the AMFI. It was an interesting day with a lot of questions and answers.

Peter started his lecture by asking the contestants how cradle 2 cradle or sustainability can go hand-in-hand with fashion. Peter joked to usually have all of the answers, but that this topic just causes him more questions.

Still reasonably quiet (it was 09:30) the audience didn’t immediately respond, so Peter rephrased his question. “Ok, then tell me, what is fashion now?”

To this several participants replied, that ‘fashion now’ is connected to individuality, to a personal signature, a unique handwriting and style. The participants stated that the individuality of a designer is increasingly important in comparison to mass production.

Continuing with sustainability Peter gave us an interesting example: His Grand Father´s coat has been passed down for generations, making it a very sustainable garment. Yet if fashion designers would sell garments that last for generations, they won’t be able to put food on the table. So the question in this circumstance is: How to make sustainability profitable?

To this question quite a discussion arose as sustainability can have many different forms, not only as that of ´slow fashion´ comparable to the ´Grand Father Coat’. An overall statement was that ´the fashion industry needs to change´. But it was this change that the participants added is very difficult to realize, especially when considering production.

Not only the industry needs to change soon became apparent: One participant: “I’m a fashion designer and I’m constantly involved with sustainability and recycling, but I also shop at H&M every now and again, and I know that most consumers do shop at fast fashion places like H&M”

Peter: ‘So is the real question. how to change the consumer’s mentality?

Again a great hubbub occurred:

Audience: ‘You have to be realistic about consumer behavior, the fashion industry is a business of seduction’.
Peter: ‘Is it possible to seduce people with green?
Audience: ‘That is exactly why we are here today’
Peter: ‘Competition requires big ideological change’
Audience: ‘That is the confrontation that arises when channeling your consumption towards your mentality, the same as for example with diets and how people would rather drink soy lattes, but can’t always find them everywhere and will then settle for a regular latte’.
Peter: So are we looking at Top > Down ‘Green’? or are we looking at Bottom > Up ‘Green’?

Whereas I couldn’t jot down everything that everyone said, you get the jist of the discussion. When questioned what ‘fashion is now’ to him, Peter’s answer was simple and clear: ‘Fashion should be a liberation. New designers need to change the world we live in’.

He concluded his talk with a jokey reference to the current ‘Velvet Revolution’ taking place and that maybe it would be better if the participants of the competition would take a more serious look at the topic..

My personal (Holly from AIFW) interpretation of this is: We can’t change the world doing what is already being done!

For any questions for Peter, feel free to ping us an e-mail: greenfashion@amsterdamfashionweek.com

2010-10-18T15:17:00.003+02:00

Here are the slides from my PowerPoint presentation. They feature the minimal requirements for the submissions for the second round of The Green Fashion Competition.

The detailed requirements for the competition can be downloaded here: Requirements Round Two. This document will also be e-mailed to all of the participants.

Requirements for tgfc

View more presentations from HollySyrett.

2010-10-18T10:00:00.003+02:00

Merijn ten Thije is the creative mind behind !SYOU co-design sneakers. I'm a massive fan of the !SYOU concept, which is a real People, Planet, Profit initiative. Something that I personally believe is the future for businesses. Derived from 'i', 'see', 'you', !SYOU recognises everyone involved in the chain to create their sneakers.

Everything about the !SYOU concept can be found on www.isyou.com. Merijn was bombarded with questions during the workshop. If there are any more, don't hesitate to mail me and we'll pass on the message (greenfashion@amsterdamfashionweek.com).

Here's another video that comes from TEDX Amsterdam (thanks!):

And here's Merijn during the workshop:

2010-10-18T09:31:00.002+02:00

The CEO's of our favourite 'green' glossy, Sublime magazine, were two of the three special guests at the first workshop. Laura and Damian Santamaria came from the UK to talk about positioning and 'green' media.

As a pioneer in the field of sustainability, Sublime magazine, is The Green Fashion Competition's media partner and is thus following the competition, from the launch with Kentroy Yearwood in July 2010 to the grand finale that will take place in January 2011.

Please click on this link to view the amazing powerpoint that they used.

For any questions for Laura or Damian, feel free to contact us at greenfashion@amsterdamfashionweek.com (and specify that the question is for them).

2010-10-15T09:51:00.003+02:00

This is Andriana Landegent's presentation that took place during the first workshop. Andriana is the creative mind behind Ecologic Republic - an initiative that works towards creating a fair, transparant and sustainable fashion chain.

Eco rep invest 27 mei

View more presentations from HollySyrett.

Besides her PowerPoint Andriana also used a flipover where she elaborated on the whole fashion chain(from seeds to consumer). She pointed out how margins are divided across the chain and how only approximately 10% - 20% of a consumer price equals the value of a product after the seeds have been developed, crops have been grown, ginning and spinning, weaving and cmt have taken place. The further 80% - 90% is all divided among import, wholesale and retail.

To visualise the 'disconnection' in the chain, Andriana asked six audience members to stand before the group, each was give a profession from the fashion chain:
1: farmer
2: spinning & dying
3: weaving & cmt
4: wholesale
5: retail
6: consumer
Andriana pointed out that there was no connection between any of the people in the chain, for example: the retailer has no connection to the farmer, or the wholesaler does nog know the dyer. By asking her volunteers to stand in a circle, all of the professions could see eachother and Andriana underlined that a fairer, sustainable fashion industry can be achieved once personal connections and relations are built.

For any questions for Andriana, feel free to e-mail us and we'll make sure to pass on your question / provide her contact details.

2010-10-14T14:36:00.002+02:00

For everyone who wants to continue on The Green Fashion tour this weekend, Strawberry Earth are holding an amazing event at Club Trouw: "Strawberry Earth Wonderland" our ambassador Lonneke will be there too! Make sure to buy tickets beforehand to prevent being upset at the door: www.strawberryearth.nl/wonderland

2010-10-13T17:57:00.002+02:00

Charlie + Mary from Strawberry Earth on Vimeo.

This is the Charlie & Mary video that shows Marieke and Charlotte's lovely shop!

2010-10-13T17:42:00.002+02:00

The first workshop for The Green Fashion Competition took place on Tuesday the 12th of October. I'm going to gradually post as much information as possible on this blog about the workshop.

This is Marieke Vinck's PowerPoint presenatation. Marieke is one half of the duo behind Dutch sustainable fashion store 'Charlie & Mary'.

Charlieandmary

View more presentations from HollySyrett.

If there are any questions concerning retail and sustainability or anything about Charlie & Mary, please visit the website www.charlieandmary.com or feel free to send us an e-mail at the greenfashion mail address: greenfashion@amsterdamfashionweek.com

2010-10-06T16:22:00.005+02:00

The moment has finally arrived!

Over 180 fashion entrepreneurs enrolled for The Green Fashion Competition 2010, all of which at an exceptionally advanced level.

We have received enrolments from the Netherlands, Yemen, the USA, India, Poland, China, Japan, Serbie, Germany and the UK (just to name a few countries), underlining the universal appeal for sustaining Biodiversity through fashion entrepreneurship.

Visit: the website to view the list of the lucky (meaning extremely talented and promising) fashion entrepreneurs who will be competing for the final prizes of 15.000 euro's, 25.000 euro's and a show during Amsterdam International Fashion Week in January 2011!

2010-09-27T15:27:00.000+02:00

After much anticipation, 'The Green Fashion Manual' is finally finished and has been published on www.amsterdamfashionweek.com/greenfashion/manual
In this manual you will find 5 key points wherein fashion can be connected to sustaining biodiversity.

Sustaining biodiversity is one of the core criteria for the competition. AIFW has written this manual with help from ‘CREM specialists in sustainability’. The manual is meant as an aid and inspiration for participants of the competition.

Further core criteria for The Green Fashion Competition are: Vision, Profitability, Feasibility, Market and Positioning, Design and Execution. These topics will be covered during the two workshops that will take place in October (as featured below).

Happy reading!

2010-09-23T13:14:00.003+02:00

In October the participants of The Green Fashion Competition, will be invited to participate in two workshops which will support their submissions for the competition.

The workshops are centred around two main themes: Creation and Business and are being held at stunning locations (see pic for one of the locations) with imput by the creme-de-la-creme of the Dutch fashion industry.

Workshop Creation will take place on Tuesday the 12th of October in Amsterdam. The experts whom are contributing to this workshop are:
Peter Leferink - Amsterdam Fashion Institute
Andriana Landegant - Ecologic Republic
Marieke Vinck & Charlotte van Waes - Charlie&Mary
Merijn ten Thije - !SYOU
Special guest

Workshop Business will take place on Tuesday the 19th of October in Amsterdam. The experts whom are contributing to this workshop are:
Manolo Marquez - ABN AMRO
Rob Godschalk - Ernst & Young
Marije Hovestad - Syntens
Peter Schuitema - Kuyichi & Nukuhiva
Roosmarie Ruigrok - Max Havelaar & Clean&Unique

Further information about the workshops will be published to the participants of the competition.

PS: If you've enrolled, make sure to block the dates in your diary!

2010-09-23T12:44:00.003+02:00

There is just one short week left to enrol as a participant for The Green Fashion Competition. And we've got some exciting news. Sustinable denim entrepreneur and the previous Managing Director of Kuyichi, Tony Tonnaer has been added to the jury ofThe Green Fashion Competition.

To find out a bit about Tony and to introduce him to the competition, we asked him a few questions.

What is your vision on ‘the future fashion industry’?
TT: I think that people will look for more real things in life this coming decade, so more fashion with a story, with a personality behind it, more quality-wear and more sustainable concepts that saften our future.

What will be your focal point when judging participants submissions?
TT: The most important thing is that the design and quality is unique and sellable, while the sustainable materials are innovative and well crafted to ensure a long life for each garment.

What’s your favourite green tip?
TT: Go to a third world country or a tropical rainforest and you’ll be extremely motivated and inspired to do something in this world.

Why did you decide to be in the jury of The Green Fashion Competition?
TT: I decided to be in the jury because I want to stimulate new talent to develop fresh green commercial concepts and designs. The more interesting green products that are offered, the easier retailers and consumers will be seduced to change their buying or consuming patterns.

2010-09-17T17:28:00.004+02:00

For the fourth time Amsterdam will prove its sustainability during Amsterdam Duurzaam (Duurzaam = Sustainable) festival that will take place this Sunday on the Westergas terrain.

The festival is a 'festive meeting of minds' where realisation is awakened in consideration to our energy sources, food and transport.
In true Green Fashion style, Amsterdam International Fashion Week will also participate with the festival with The Green Fashion Stand! Come and chat with us about anything sustainable & fashion.

We'll be showing off two stunning (and obviously sustainable) outfits, kindly provided by Are You Swedish on borrowed mannequins (how sustainable!) from our friends at Beekwilder. And you won't believe how sustainable our transport is! Instead of a taxi / Green Wheels (that are quite good alternatives!) we've chosen for a Dutch 'bakfiets', so let's hope it doesn't rain!

Make sure to check out the Amsterdam Duurzaam website, if you need convincing to come and visit, you'll find out that there are tonnes of exciting things happening (from organic cupcakes to 'fair' financing).

(ps: we know, black is always the new black, even though it's 'green')

2010-09-02T20:39:00.000+02:00

Our ambassador (Lonneke Engel) recently sent me this cool article published in The New York Post called 'Fashion Tries on Zero Waste'.
It's really interesting if you are currently exploring the manners wherein you can make your fashion enterprise more sustainable!

2010-09-02T11:55:00.001+02:00

The United Nations will discuss battling poverty in New York at the end of September.

Leaders from all corners of the globe will discuss issues surrounding the Millenium Goals. At CNV International it is possible to 'sign up' for fair production and trade. Just click on this link to show the Dutch delegation that you believe fair fashion and 'honest clothing' should be discussed during this UN meeting.

2010-08-31T19:19:00.001+02:00

The Dutch minister of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality here talks about biodiversity and why it is so important that is is sustained (Dutch spoken). From our friends at NCB Naturalis.

2010-08-30T23:01:00.000+02:00

Anything to make life easier is good if you ask me. Aware that being green isn't too obvious for everyone, Sophie Uliano author of 'Gorgeously Green' has divised 8 simple steps to increase the greenness in your life.

Step One: Awareness - 'Become aware of your life'
Step Two: Beauty – Top Eight Ingredients to Avoid
Step Three: Shopping – Top Eight “Stop 'n Thinks”
Step Four: Fitness – Top Five Ways to Green Your Fitness
Step Five: Your Palace – Top Ten GG Home Tips
Step Six: Food – 12 Eco-licious Tips
Step Seven: Out & About – Top Eight Tips
Step Eight: Go Supergreen – Change the World One Click at a Time

Julia Roberts wrote the foreword for Sophie's book, and to be honest. If it's good enough for Julia, it's good enough for me!

2010-08-25T21:25:00.001+02:00

The ambassador of The Green Fashion Competition, international topmodel Lonneke Engel (pictured here with Kentroy Yearwood, wearing one of his designs) agreed to answer a few questions concerning her involvement with TGFC.

What is your vision on ‘the future fashion industry’?
An industry where longevity of fashion designers, and clothing is key, clothing made of the purest and best materials, that look great, make you look great not only from the outside but keep your mind also at peace, while not harming the environment.
A few great pieces that last a long time beat bad constructed clothing to wear once and throw away. Less is more!

What will be your focal point when judging participants submissions?
I like real creativity, and thinking outside of the box. I want the designs to look and feel great, as that is the number 1 most important thing: People need to want to buy it! I also encourage, using recycled materials, and/or different materials than the conventional eco friendly fabrics we know.

What’s your favourite green tip?
Vintage! Wear it or remake it to something unique. I do it all the time. Vintage is the original "Green" you know ;)

Why did you decide to be the ambassador of The Green Fashion Competition?
Because I am right in the middle of Fashion, and see the waste and amounts of clothing being produced everyday at work.

I love diversity and because of the fast production of certain companies a lot of clothing is the same, mass produced and with enormous amounts of waste. I want one-of- a-kind designs, exclusivity, and it doesn't mean it has to be haute couture, thus expensive, or hard to find. you can find it close to home, maybe even in your mother's or grandma's clothing closet! And wearing a dress or shirt that has a story makes you feel twice as great as when it is a random and regular piece all your friends can buy.......

Follow Lonneke's great blog, Organice Your Life and keep in touch through her twitter!

2010-08-23T21:36:00.000+02:00

Each AIFW we hold a 'Fasterclass' that provides talented, aspiring and established fashion designers with information and insights into topics of interest, for example: copyrights, financing and production. During the last 'ABN AMRO fasterclass' I was invited to talk about The Green Fashion Competition and 360 fashion was on hand to video the whole talk! If you haven't got much to do and would like to hear me talk for 10 minutes (and speak Dutch) then you can watch this video:

2010-08-16T20:19:00.000+02:00

Lovely Lonneke Engel (The ambassador of The Green Fashion Competition) explaining her involvement during the launch of The Green Fashion Competition (in Dutch)

Thanks to fashionnewz!

2010-08-16T20:18:00.000+02:00

I've blogged about Made-by (the label for sustainable fashion brands) before, as I spoke to Esther Verburg (manager BENELUX).

As I'm now writing the manual for The Green Fashion Competition (coming soon) I must point out how ridiculously simple, easy and useful their site is. I especially like their infoshow, it's basically the fashion-chain for dummies, and therefore great!

Just click on the pic to go to their site and find video's, interviews and charts with must-know information.

2010-08-11T21:56:00.001+02:00

People are always complaining that it is too much of a 'poeha' (Dutch for fuss / hastle) to find something that looks great, doesn't break the bank and is sustainable / green / fair / good / great.

New(ish) shop in the Redlight district of Utrecht Puha takes away the hasstle and turns the 'poeha' into woooeehaa!

They stock young Dutch designers and although they aren't necessarily green by conviction, they do have a surprisingly large amount of sustainable fashion brands. In my opinion a real 'future fashion store', where sustainability is more of a given, not necessarily a differentiator!

2010-08-10T21:08:00.001+02:00

Ok, so we might be going green mad, we even eat green cake at fashion week!

2010-08-03T19:44:00.002+02:00

So although it might seem that the blog has acquired solely promotional services (enrol for the competition here!) the last week or so, I can guarantee that the AIFW office is still in full-on 'green modus' learning about everything from Recycling to Functional Agrobiodiversity!

Last week I spoke to the founder of Clean & Unique, a platform for small fashion labels and fashion designers with a common interest in fair and green business.

Clean & Unique stands for fair labour conditions and environmental responsibility. And as a collective initiative Clean & Unique enables small fashion labels to benefit from quality labels such as the Fair Wear Foundation (and from January 2011) the Max Havelaar label, which are unattainable for individual small labels because of price.

A great initiative and a perfect way to start out in the (sustainable) fashion industry if you ask me. Anyhow my meeting went very well and something tells me that the people behind Clean&Unique catch my drift - free t-shirt for me!

'Fout shirt' means 'Bad/Wrong shirt' and is a comment towards how clothing is often produced, but also a bit of a joke as 'fout' can also be interpreted as 'tacky' insinuating that I'm wearing a tacky t-shirt!

Visit http://cleanunique.org for more information on Clean&Unique and visit www.foutepagina.nl (only in Dutch) for more information on the campaign behind my t-shirt and Max Havelaar cotton.

2010-08-03T19:37:00.000+02:00

A great video of The Green Fashion Competition launch by FEM ('What women want') -Dutch spoken-

2010-08-03T15:02:00.004+02:00

Enrol today!

Enrolment for The Green Fashion Competition has commenced since the stunning launch by Kentroy Yearwood during the 14th edition of AIFW.

To acquire the best and brightest participants, The Green Fashion Competition has extended the deadline for enrolment. It is possible to enrol up until Thursday the 30th of September 2010, but don’t be late (late=don’t participate!)

www.amsterdamfashionweek.com/greenfashion/enrolment

2010-07-28T19:06:00.000+02:00

The Green Fashion Shoot took place to prove that stunning fashion and sustainability can go hand-in-hand!

Feel inspired? Registration for The Green Fashion Competition has now commenced! Sign-up on www.amsterdamfashionweek.com/greenfashion!

2010-07-22T09:56:00.002+02:00

http://twitter.com/AIFWGreen

It took a while, but The Green Fashion Competition is on twitter! Keep in touch!

2010-07-21T20:55:00.003+02:00

For the unfortuante souls who weren't able to make the launch, here's a little glimpse into Kentroy Yearwood's amazing installation RANGAKU (and yes those models did have 'the power' balancing on extreme heels in 4 meter high columns!)

PHOTOGRAPHY: CHELSEA SYRETT

2010-07-21T20:48:00.002+02:00

The launch of The Green Fashion Competition took place last Friday during the official schedule of AIFW. Just look at our beautiful (and brainy) ambassador Lonneke Engel, here with the Program Director of Biodiversity from the ministry of LNV Henk de Jong and two stunning models donned in Kentroy Yearwood's pioneering sustainable outfits!

PHOTOGRAPHY: CHELSEA SYRETT

2010-07-14T07:35:00.008+02:00

A hurray went through the office last night! Just a moment before AIFW starts we were able to confirm that our favourite sustainable lifestyle magazine (and the only internationally oriented sustainable lifestyle magazine)Sublime is coming to Amsterdam!

Having covered London Fashion Weeks 'green side' Esthetica, Sublime has now channelled its focus to The Green Fashion Competition!

More information on the Sublime Amsterdam International Fashion Week collaboration will follow soon!

2010-07-09T10:56:00.001+02:00

Listen to Amsterdam FM from 14:00 this afternoon to hear Stephanie Floor and Holly Syrett from AIFW live in the studio! We'll be talking about downtown, the origins of AIFW and of course The Green Fashion Competition!

2010-07-01T14:28:00.002+02:00

Woehoe! It's almost time for a very special summer edition of Streetlab_ businesscase. Presenting fresh ideas about eco fashion, social media and the future of green design.

Social blogger Ikenna Azuike from Strawberry Earth and international eco fashion Annouk Post from Hiphonest are guests for the night.

Holly Syrett will be there to talk about the Green Fashion Competition during the Amsterdam International Fashion Week.(That's me!)

Come along if you want to know what 'next level blogging' is all about/ which cutting edge designers to watch/ which brands are leading the way / and why there's a global buzz about a creative and green revolution!

See you on Monday 5th of July at 20:00pm

2010-07-01T14:23:00.004+02:00

Oops! Seems like I've gotten a tad behind on the blogging! I'll have to blame our busy pre-fashion week schedules. Great news! The official launch of The Green Fashion Competition (16th July) is open to public! All you have to do is RSVP to greenfashion @ amsterdamfashionweek.com Make sure your there, as amazing 'green fashion' pioneer Kentroy Yearwood will be presenting his new collection RANGAKU and we'll be introducing our very special Green Fashion Ambassador...

2010-06-17T08:17:00.000+02:00

In case you haven't heard about the great new fashion brand Satara, watch the video and see how the garments are made, and by whom! Yet another great example of company-transparency and 'educating' the consumer. Satara is retailed through the online shop, By AMFI (spuistraat 23) and Charlie + Mary (Gerard Doustraat 84)

PS: I love their bubbleprint garments!

2010-06-09T08:23:00.002+02:00

I've found another great Green Fashion blog worth keeping an eye on: HipHonest by Studio Annouk Post.

2010-06-09T08:13:00.003+02:00

Our friends at NCB Naturalis (Holland's Centre for Biodiversity) have been kind enough to provide me with this great video interview on Biodiversity with the Dutch minister of Education, Culture and Science – Ronald Plasterk.

Visit their website to see more interviews and discover more about biodiversity.

2010-06-09T08:03:00.006+02:00

Yet more great weekend activities for (green) fashion enthusiasts:

Nacht van de Mode (Night of fashion) in the increasingly popular fashion quarter in Arnhem is taking place this Saturday.

Make sure to check out the Awearness Upcycle Event in the Awearness Fair Guerillastore and the 100%MODE CATWALK with among many others, a show by Elsien Gringhuis!
Download the full programme here.