Just last week we released a film made in conjunction with Role Models Management, an ethical modeling agency, that shares 10 easy tips and tricks for dressing like a sustainable fashion pro. This week, we’re taking you behind the scenes with some of the film’s models to talk about what sustainable fashion means to them, and what it was like making the final product.
Curious what these beautiful ladies had to say about their personal styles and the filming process? Read on to hear more from these awe-inspiring women.
Veronica Pomee
Why do you care about sustainable fashion?
It’s not about caring, it’s part of my identity as an indigenous woman. It’s not a choice, it’s a way of life.
What three words describe your personal style?
Tom-girl chic.
What is your best memory from filming this video?
The best part was definitely being surround by women who are taking on active roles to help maintain peace and balance in their lives while simultaneously inspiring others to do the same.
Brana Dane
Why do you care about sustainable fashion?
Sustainability is absolutely important. Earth is our home and we have a responsibility to its current and future inhabitants to protect it. My mother’s lungs were effected by severe air pollution as a young child growing up in LA before the air-quality laws. A child should not have to worry about the air they breathe. It’s up to us to put a limit on what we will accept as individuals and as a society.
What three words describe your personal style?
My personal style is edgy, sophisticated, and fun! Dressing well is all about perspective and balance. Keep both consistent and you can’t go wrong.
What is your best memory from filming this video?
My best memory from the shoot is the camaraderie backstage and in prep. I felt the passion and love everyone had for sustainability and the project. The production crew was so sweet and happy to be there. I also loved getting a chance to be creative by memorizing lines and performing them in front of a camera. As a model, I don’t get to do this often, so it was a great opportunity for me to experiment. It’s rare when you get to do something you both enjoy and believe in, so it was a real treat!
Anne Therese
Why do you care about sustainable fashion?
Because I care about the planet and because I believe in empowered, positive change. Fashion is one of the most polluting and unfair industries in the world but it doesn’t have to be that way. Education, transparency, and positive action — from us as individuals, but also as a collective — can make huge shifts in fashion and pop-culture. We have the ability to make tremendous changes just by reflecting on our values and how well they match our purchases and actions, and that is why I think it’s so exciting to care about sustainable fashion.
What three words describe your personal style?
Comfortable, sleek, and modernly sustainable.
What is your best memory from filming this video?
The energy in the room that day and how proud everyone on our team, from models to makeup artists to production, were to be a part of bringing something like this to life. The positive energy you continue to find yourself in when you work with likeminded people in this field never ceases to amaze me. Because at the end of the day, we’re all here to do the same thing — to help change the world and create a more just and sustainable future.
Valerie Emanuel
Why do you care about sustainable fashion?
I care about sustainable fashion because it’s a human rights issue first! When we look at who made our clothes and what they are made of we open our eyes to think deeper about supply chains and change our daily shopping habits.
What three words describe your personal style?
Elegant, beachy, upscale.
What is your best memory from filming this video?
My best memory shooting the film was meeting so many women who are new to the movement. We spent the day sharing our favorite thrift shop finds, talking about our journeys to shopping more consciously, and having laughs while talking about how fun this journey has been!
Emma Claire Fried
Why do you care about sustainable fashion?
I care about sustainable fashion because whether you find self-expression through fashion or simply have your everyday uniform, looking (and feeling) good while creating the least amount of impact on the earth and its resources is powerful.
What three words describe your personal style?
Classic, uniform, “jeans and t-shirt.”
What is your best memory from filming this video?
I loved getting to see familiar faces and getting to know more about my fellow Role Model ladies! Creating something for a great cause while having fun wasn’t so bad either.
MaryAnn Elizabeth
Why do you care about sustainable fashion?
I care about sustainable fashion because it is important to me to make conscious choices regarding consumption. I love fashion just as much as anyone, but I love the planet more! I’ve learned a lot from my sons who are 20 and 17 about the wisdom of younger generations, how finding that rare fashion treasure shopping vintage/second-hand has become seen as more impressive than purchasing new to wear labels. There is definitely a shift happening with younger generations, both my sons know how to sew and have recycled, up-cycled, and created new items from old garments.
What three words describe your personal style?
My personal style has changed a lot over the years. I love a classic, timeless look. I am not very interested in trends.
What is your best memory from filming this video?
My best memory of filming the video was the enthusiasm for this project, being surrounded by so many inspiring and creative people! I was thrilled when Anne and Val invited me to be included, they are a force of nature, collectively using their experiences within the industry to work creatively to bring awareness to important social and environmental issues.
Kaye Li Taylor
Why do you care about sustainable fashion?
The main objective for sustainable fashion is to buy less and use more. Fast fashion has further influenced this concept that everything is disposable. Think about your high school prom dress, rather than letting it sit in your closet or disposing of it; you can take it to a vintage store, sell it, and it could be someone else’s gala outfit.
What three words describe your personal style?
Chic, edgy, semi-casual.
What is your best memory from filming this video?
Other than the beautiful home we shot in. The vibe of the entire team was so inviting and positive. We were all there to work, but it’s an added bonus when you meet some really amazing people that inspire you to keep pushing to make your dreams a reality.
Are you as inspired as we are by these 7 incredible women? Share the video and spread the love.
Images: Katie Nuñez
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