From the very beginning of Eva Cassis, the fabrics we use have been a driving factor in our ranges. We want to create garments that make you look and feel amazing. But our purpose is actually so much bigger than that.

“When I made the decision to start my namesake label back in 2012 one of the first decisions I made was to only use natural fibres to make my clothing,” explains Eva Cassis. “Back then, I was focused on choosing beautiful fabrics that felt amazing against the skin & especially ones that breathe & keep us comfortable.

“However over the years as the label continues to grow & we learn about the devastating impacts of the fashion industry we must always consider our contribution. Will it be a positive one or a negative one?”

To ensure we are making a positive contribution to the fashion industry and our environment, the majority of the sustainable fabrics we use are European Flax® and OEKO-TEX® certified. What does all this mean? Read on to find out.

What is European Flax®?

When a fabric is certified as European Flax®, it means that every step of the production can be traced. From the farming of the flax seed to the weaving of the fabric.

Traceability is important, because the European Flax® label is only given to fabrics that are:

• Made from flax seeds farmed in environments with zero irrigation, GMO or waste.
• Processed with zero chemicals, using 100% mechanical fibre extraction.
• Made in compliance with the International Labour Organisation to ensure good working conditions for all workers involved in the farming and production process.

European Flax® is a premium product that is only produced in France, Belgium and the Netherlands. It is breathable, durable and gets softer with every wash.

Flax is also good for the environment. It doesn’t require any fertilisers or pesticides, and as it grows it helps to renew the soil. It’s really quite incredible when you think about it!

What is OEKO-TEX® Certification?

The production of many fabrics uses substances and chemicals which are known to be harmful to humans. This may include phthalates, formaldehyde, nickel, other pesticides and dyes plus many more. Your skin is permeable so it can absorb these chemicals into your body.

To receive OEKO-TEX® certification, a fabric must be free from harmful levels of more than 100 substances. This is an independent testing and certification system with test institutes located in Europe and Japan. The criteria is also regularly updated to ensure new substances or chemicals are considered in the certification process.

Like with the European Flax® certification, OEKO-TEX® certification also considers other environmental and social elements. This includes working conditions, waste management and energy use, among others.

Fabrics with the OEKO-TEX® tick of approval give peace of mind that the clothes you are wearing are free from harmful chemicals and have minimal impact on the environment.

The impact of fabric choices on the industry

It’s that question of slow fashion vs fast fashion. When you choose sustainable fashion labels that use sustainable fabrics, you’re contributing to positive change in an industry that is riddled with challenges.

“I am always focused on creating the absolute best quality product possible for my customers,” says Eva. “But as a business owner I feel a great responsibility for my contribution to waste, pollution and potential harm caused along my supply chain.

“Garment workers are exposed to so many harmful chemicals used in the majority of the fabrics that we wear. The excess exposure working with these toxic dyes & toxic fabrics have devastating effects on the health of garment workers. Not to mention the impact on neighbouring villages that see heightened pollution caused by these factories. There is nothing glamorous or beautiful about these fabrics and the damage they cause.”

How our sustainable fabric choices impact you

It’s not just the environment and the workers producing the garments that can be impacted by the fabrics. You can too.

“We never hear much about what potential harm these toxic fabrics can have on the wearer,” asserts Eva. “And we certainly don’t speak about these toxic fabrics heading to landfills after just a few wears. In most cases, the pollution and poisoning of the environment continues. But this time, it’s not at an offshore factory… it’s much closer to home.”

Philippa is a long-term, regular Eva Cassis customer. She says that our garments are “a delight to wear. Eva obviously takes great care in designing gorgeous clothes to flatter and chooses exquisite, high quality, sustainable fabrics to compliment her designs.”

Likewise, Wendy is another Eva Cassis customer who loves the durability and quality of the sustainable fabrics we use. “The clothes that I’ve had for over six years still look great. As they are made from natural fabrics, they get better and softer over time.”

Our commitment to sustainable fabrics

Choosing sustainable fabrics is how we always have and always will do things at Eva Cassis.

“Choosing sustainable fabrics isn’t just about beauty anymore,” explains Eva. “It’s about responsibility and running a human business with our values at the forefront of every decision.

“I want to be proud of what I am building and I want you to be proud of what and who you are supporting.”

Browse our range of slow fashion, women’s accessories and sustainable homewares to see how we bring our sustainable fabrics to life in our signature Eva Cassis style.