Latest news with #NoNasties
Time of India
25-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Discover Ateliers and Exhibitions for Unique Fashion Choices
Before malls became popular, exhibitions and couture houses were the go-to places for exclusive outfits. While malls dominate shopping habits today, these traditional spaces still cater to individual tastes. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Apurva Kothari, founder of No Nasties, says, 'It's high time you respect your style. You don't want to be seen wearing something thousands are buying across the world.' Aisha Tharadra (29) of Mumbai and Rashmi Sharma (25) of Chennai shop from ateliers and exhibitions. 'Unlike mass-produced outfits sold at malls, ateliers offer limited, personalised pieces,' they say. Creative showcases sell curated collections by experts that offer a gratifying shopping experience. Gen Z is actively seeking ethical and sustainable choices. It is important to ask the right questions and understand what goes into the making of our clothes, to be able to make the right choices for our personal style and also our planet Apurva Kothari, founder, No Nasties When shopping from ateliers, you're not just purchasing a garment but taking home a piece of art, tailored to reflect who you are. It's intimate and layered with craftsmanship and storytelling. That's what sets us apart — we don't sell fashion, we celebrate it Maheka Mirpuri, couturier, artist & philanthropist WHY SHOP FROM CREATIVE SHOWCASES Representative image/@The Lil Flea Access to limited-edition pieces Chandni Sareen, founder and creative director of The Ikat Story, says, 'Shopping at ateliers and exhibitions offers access to limited-edition pieces and heritage crafts that are hard to find in the mass-market.' Building personal style Unlike fast fashion's endless cycle of fleeting micro-trends, Niti Gupta, founder of The Afra World, emphasises, 'True style comes from looking past trends. It involves choosing fabrics, cuts, and aesthetics that reflect your persona.' Developing a personal connection According to Priyanka Punjabi, co-founder and director, The Lil Flea, 'Couture houses and exhibitions offer thoughtfulness and individuality. Pieces are handcrafted, made in small batches, and you get to interact directly with makers, making the experience personal and memorable.' LIMITATIONS Limited pieces Chaitra Poojary, a Mumbai-based content creator who shops from ateliers, says, 'With limited pieces, you have to buy immediately or risk missing out. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Exhibitions, too, are temporary, so it's hard to revisit or find the same sellers again.' Return/exchange can be a hassle Another buyer, Disha Popli (27) from Delhi, states, 'Although I prefer shopping from ateliers, exchanging or returning any purchased outfits can be a hassle due to varying prices and availability of sizes.' It is a costly affair As opposed to fast fashion brands, ateliers and exhibitions are pricier. However, this high cost is inevitable. Saaksha Bhat, co-founder, Saaksha & Kinni, states, 'Creative showcases not only source better quality clothes but also have larger overheads. Still, it's wiser to invest in expensive pieces occasionally than to frequently buy cheaper, lower-quality ones.' Pieces at ateliers and exhibitions may cost more than fast fashion, but they offer better quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability. You're paying for unique, thoughtfully curated garments Saaksha Bhat, co-founder, Saaksha & Kinni SHOP AT FASHION WEEKS Fashion weeks in India let style-conscious shoppers to explore designer outfits. They host special pop-ups where attendees can shop curated pieces straight off the runway, often at discounted prices, making high fashion accessible to a wider audience.
Fibre2Fashion
13-06-2025
- Business
- Fibre2Fashion
Apurva Kothari No Nasties
At No Nasties, sustainability is built into every stitch, seam, and shipment When Apurva Kothari left his Silicon Valley consulting job, he was not chasing trends—he was answering a moral call. Moved by reports of farmer suicides in India, particularly among cotton growers trapped in cycles of debt and chemical dependency, he founded No Nasties in 2011—India's first Fairtrade-certified, 100 per cent organic clothing brand. What began as a personal response to an agrarian crisis has since evolved into a pioneering force in ethical fashion. Built on direct partnerships with small-scale farmers in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, No Nasties ensures fair wages, promotes organic farming, and champions carbon-negative practices. With a focus on transparency, vegan principles, and a real-time tree-planting tracker—now crossing 234,000 trees—the brand is reshaping how fashion can intersect with climate responsibility and consumer trust. In this conversation with Fibre2Fashion, Kothari shares the journey of No Nasties, the realities of building clean fashion in India, and how saying 'no' to fast fashion can become a radical, regenerative act. Sustainable fashion is often criticised for being accessible only to a niche audience. What do you think is holding back large-scale adoption of conscious fashion in markets like India? Clean fashion is expensive—and that is the problem. It takes time to grow organic cotton. Yields are lower, the process is slower, and there are no chemical shortcuts. That drives up costs—but also protects the soil, the farmer, and the future. I started No Nasties in 2011 after learning about farmer suicides in Vidarbha. The root cause? Bt cotton—GMO seeds pushed by Monsanto and backed by the government. They promised big yields but delivered debt and despair. Over a decade later, our organic farmers are finally earning fair prices. That is the good news. The hard truth? Fast fashion is still winning. It is cheap, easy, and everywhere. In a country with a rising middle class and growing consumer appetite, ethics often lose to affordability. Until we stop treating clothes as disposable, sustainable fashion will remain niche. We do not need more stuff—we need better stuff. Made well. Worn longer. Valued more. There is growing conversation around greenwashing in the fashion industry. How can consumers truly differentiate between genuinely sustainable brands and those just using sustainability as a marketing tool? Ask better questions. We do it when buying a car, a phone, or even groceries. Why not clothes? Where was it made? Who made it? Who paid the real price for that ₹199 tee? What river did the dye destroy? Greenwashing thrives on apathy. Brands can only fool the people who are not looking closely. If you care where your money goes, make it ask for answers. Certifications like GOTS, Fairtrade, and OEKO-TEX are increasingly common. But do you think the industry relies too much on third-party validation instead of direct accountability? Certifications like GOTS, Fairtrade, and OEKO-TEX matter. They set a much-needed baseline. They help weed out the worst offenders and give consumers a shorthand for trust. But they are not the full picture. A label does not tell you who made your clothes, how they were treated, or how much damage was done along the way. At No Nasties, we are working to go beyond the tag. We track the carbon footprint of every product—from farm to doorstep—and offset it by 300 per cent. So far, we have removed, by offsetting 620907.96 kg of CO2e. We believe accountability should be visible, not just certified. Show me your factory. Show me your soil. Show me your numbers. How are innovations in materials—like bio-based textiles or textile recycling—reshaping the future of sustainable fashion, and what excites you most in this space? The most exciting thing? Waste is turning into raw material. Old clothes becoming new ones. Fabrics that leave no footprint. Fashion finally learning how to clean up after itself. At No Nasties, we are setting up our own Lab—a space to experiment with upcycling, bio-based blends, and circular design. Because sustainability is not enough. It is time fashion evolved. What challenges did you face while introducing Fairtrade and organic practices in the Indian apparel industry? When we started No Nasties, no one was talking about Fairtrade or organic in fashion. It was not trendy—it was confusing. We had to explain what GMO seeds were, why soil health mattered, and how a t-shirt could be 'fair'. It felt like shouting into the void. But it was a conversation worth starting. And today, we are proud that what was once radical is now baseline. The industry caught up. The vocabulary changed. Now we are pushing the next conversation: carbon offsets, climate-positive action, and regenerative and circular fashion. We are building new solutions that meet the customer where they are—simple, traceable, meaningful. It is not easy. But we have done it before. And we are doing it again. What does your commitment to carbon neutrality involve on a practical, day-to-day level? At No Nasties, we track the carbon footprint of every product—from farm to doorstep—and offset it by 300 per cent. So far, we have removed over 620,900 kg of CO₂e. That means partnering with verified platforms like Veritree and Green Story to ensure real trees are planted and real offset projects are funded around the world. On the ground, it is detailed SOPs—recording everything from garment weight to electricity usage. Working with Fairtrade and GOTS-certified factories helps too—there is a standard of care built into every step. We also have a growing pipeline of sustainability projects in motion—from returnable packaging to building a fully circular system at No Nasties. It is not just about offsets. It is about better systems. And we have an amazing team making it happen, every single day. In what ways does your brand engage with vegan and plastic-free principles across operations and packaging? At No Nasties, every detail is intentional. Our clothes are made with 100 per cent organic cotton. Buttons? Coconut shells and corozo nuts. Elastic? Natural rubber—not synthetic. Our packaging walks the talk too: 100 per cent recycled paper boxes, recycled paper tags, and soy-based, earth-friendly inks. No plastic. No animal products. No compromise. Because sustainability is not just a label—it is built into every stitch, seam, and shipment. How does No Nasties ensure fair wages and ethical working conditions for the farmers and workers in its supply chain? We work exclusively with Fairtrade and GOTS-certified factories—because third-party accountability matters. But we do not just go by paperwork. We visit in person. We meet the teams. We walk the floors to ensure that working conditions are genuinely safe—no exposure to harmful chemicals or toxic dyes, access to healthy food, and crèches available on-site. For us, it is not just about audits—it is about energy. We believe in building relationships based on trust, transparency, and shared values. If the vibe is not right, it is a no. Fair wages and safe working conditions should be the baseline, not the bonus. And we are here to make sure they are. How did the idea for the Real-Time Tree Count come about, and how has it been received by customers? We are always looking for ways to make our sustainability efforts real—and easy to understand. We already work with verified platforms like Veritree and Green Story that fund impact projects across India, Indonesia, Madagascar, Kenya, Haiti and more—from mangrove replanting to large-scale reforestation. The real-time tree count was the next step. We plant three trees for every product sold, and we wanted that to show up live on our website—so customers can literally 'see' the impact they are part of. Your real-time impact on climate-change. The response? Incredibly positive. Up next: showing exactly where those trees are planted. Because at No Nasties, we believe it is not real unless it is visible. What sets the Bloom collection apart from previous No Nasties ranges? For Earth Day, we wanted to really focus on our Live Tree Counter. We worked backwards from there and built the idea of 'EVERY DAY WE PLANT TREES AROUND THE WORLD. EVERYDAY THE EARTH BLOOMS.' ON THE SEASON: It is summer! It is our season, our way of right as No Nasties—a brand designed to reverse climate change—to launch a collection perfect for the 40-degree sweltering heat. It is a statement—as a planet heats up, we continue to cool it down with our tree planting drive and carbon negative existence. ON THE PRINT: We love vintage prints and retro vibes in general—we are 90's kids! So, when it came to the summer collection, we went back to our moodboard with chintz and summer flowers and developed our signature Bloom print with Illustrator Nupur Panemanglor. We really wanted to deliver the idea of "EVERY DAY WE PLANT TREES AROUND THE WORLD. EVERYDAY THE EARTH BLOOMS.' The next best thing to fauna is flora! That is where the idea 'bloomed'. With physical stores in Assagao, Panjim, and Bengaluru, how important is in-person retail to your brand's growth and customer experience? In-person retail is everything. There is nothing like watching someone 'feel' our fabric for the first time and instantly get why it matters. The softness, the quality—it clicks. But it is more than just texture—it is trust. Our stores are where people meet the team, hear the full story, and see the humans behind the brand. That connection? You cannot replicate it online. Because real change only happens when we are in this together. And it starts face to face. Lastly, with climate change accelerating, how do you see the role of fashion evolving—from being a major polluter to potentially becoming a force for environmental restoration? Fashion helped break the planet. It can help heal it. At No Nasties, we have gone from organic clothing to climate-positive impact. Every product's carbon footprint is tracked—and offset by 300 per cent. We plant three trees per order. Over 237,900 so far. It is not a rocket science. It is just intention, technology, and action. Say 'no' to plastic. No to toxic dyes. No to unfair prices. Start by saying 'no'. Start by planting one tree. DISCLAIMER: All views and opinions expressed in this column are solely of the interviewee, and they do not reflect in any way the opinion of
Hans India
05-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Hans India
5 Eco-Friendly Beauty & Fashion Must-Haves for World Environment Day
This World Environment Day, let your shopping choices reflect your commitment to a greener planet. Whether you're updating your beauty routine, wardrobe, or work essentials, these eco-friendly picks prove you don't have to compromise on style or performance for sustainability. Here are five planet-loving products to add to your cart and celebrate the Earth in style: 1. No Nasties Dimple Linen Dress (Olive) The No Nasties Dimple Linen Dress in olive is a relaxed shirt dress crafted from organic cotton linen and finished with corozo nut buttons. This chic piece is made using organic, vegan, and upcycled materials, making it as gentle on the planet as it is on your skin. Every dress purchased plants three trees and offsets three times its carbon footprint, with a total offset of 14.01 kg CO₂e for each dress, making it a true statement in sustainable style. No Nasties is known for its transparent, planet-positive approach, so you can feel good about every wear. Price: ₹6,499 2. Earth Rhythm Lip & Cheek Tint The Earth Rhythm Lip & Cheek Tint is a versatile, everyday essential that adds a healthy flush of color to both lips and cheeks. Formulated with non-toxic pigments, this tint is gentle on your skin and safe for daily use. It's long-lasting, easy to blend, and perfect for those who want a natural look while supporting sustainable beauty. Earth Rhythm is committed to eco-conscious practices, and this product is a great choice for anyone seeking clean beauty alternatives. With over 24,000 positive ratings, it's a crowd favorite for good reason. Price: ₹499 3. Oriflame Love Nature Up-Loved Purifying Shampoo and Energising Shower Gel Oriflame's Up-Loved Purifying Shampoo is formulated for oily hair, featuring upcycled apple seed oil and organic kale extract. This biodegradable shampoo is free from parabens and silicones and comes in a bottle made from 100% recycled plastic. The use of upcycled apple seed oil, a byproduct from the food industry, helps reduce waste while mimicking your scalp's natural oils to nourish and restore shine. It's a refreshing, juice-inspired product that purifies the scalp and keeps hair feeling light and healthy. The Oriflame Up-Loved Energising Shower Gel is suitable for all skin types and features upcycled lemon seed oil, along with organic carrot and ginger extracts. This citrusy, nutrient-rich shower gel is biodegradable and packaged in a bottle made entirely from recycled plastic. By using upcycled ingredients from the food industry, it gives new life to what would otherwise be waste, while carrot and ginger extracts help refresh and nourish your skin. It's a zesty, sustainable addition to your daily routine. Price: ₹399 each 4. Pure Earth Hydrate & Glow Set Pure Earth's Hydrate & Glow Set includes the Wild Rose Himalayan Mist (100ml) and Wild Seaberry Supercritical Oil (15ml), both handcrafted in India using clean, ethical, and sustainable methods. Free from preservatives and chemicals, these vegan, cruelty-free, and gluten-free products are made with pure botanicals. The seabuckthorn oil is wild-harvested by women in Ladakh at 13,000 feet, supporting local communities while deeply nourishing and revitalising your skin. This set is a celebration of Earth-friendly luxury and mindful beauty. Price: ₹3,800 5. Zouk FloMotif Women's Office Bag The Zouk FloMotif Women's Office Bag combines style and sustainability with its PeTA-approved vegan leather and traditional handicraft fabric. Designed with an abstract motif, double straps, and a spacious interior, this bag is water-resistant and perfect for daily use. Proudly made in India, it supports local artisans and offers a cruelty-free, eco-friendly alternative for your workday essentials. The water-resistant inner lining is especially handy for unpredictable weather, making it as practical as it is planet-friendly. Price: ₹1,499
Time of India
22-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
Earth Day 2025: How to make sustainable fashion choices without compromising on style
Every year on April 22, the world comes together to celebrate Earth Day, a global reminder of our responsibility to protect the planet we call home. What started in 1970 as a grassroots environmental movement has grown into a worldwide call for climate action. This year, as conversations around sustainability grow louder and more urgent, it's time to take a long, hard look at one of the most polluting industries in the world: fashion. From water pollution to textile waste and carbon emissions, the fashion industry is one of the biggest contributors to environmental damage. But the good news? With mindful choices and a little fashion wisdom, you can reduce your carbon footprint without sacrificing style. Here's how to make sustainable fashion choices that honour both the planet and your personal aesthetic. Understand what sustainable fashion means Sustainable fashion isn't just about wearing organic cotton. It's a broader mindset that involves responsible production, mindful consumption, and conscious disposal. It's about asking: Who made my clothes? What were they made from? How long will they last? It considers the entire lifecycle of a garment, from raw material sourcing to post-use recycling. Buy less, choose well The late fashion icon Vivienne Westwood said it best: 'Buy less, choose well, make it last.' Instead of indulging in fast fashion trends that barely last a season, invest in timeless pieces that you'll love for years. High-quality garments may cost more upfront but often save money (and the planet) in the long run. Embrace second-hand and vintage One of the easiest and most stylish ways to reduce your fashion footprint is to shop second-hand. Whether it's curated vintage boutiques, online resale platforms, or charity thrift shops, the preloved market is booming. Not only are you giving clothes a second life, but you'll also discover one-of-a-kind pieces that elevate your style game. Support eco-conscious brands More and more labels are embracing sustainable practices, think ethical sourcing, transparent supply chains, natural dyes, and biodegradable packaging. Do a little research before you shop. Look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), Fair Trade, or B Corp to ensure a brand walks its sustainability talk. Some notable eco-conscious brands include Reformation, Eileen Fisher, No Nasties, and Stella McCartney, among others. Closer to home, Indian labels like Nicobar, Doodlage, and The Summer House are redefining sustainable chic with homegrown flair. Get creative with upcycling Before you toss out that old kurta or torn pair of jeans, think again. Upcycling is the art of transforming old clothes into something new and fabulous. Turn a saree into a dress, make a patchwork bag from scrap fabric, or embellish your worn-out jacket with embroidery. It's DIY meets high fashion—and the planet loves it. Rent or borrow for one-time looks Need a lehenga for your best friend's wedding? Instead of splurging on a designer outfit you'll wear once, consider renting. Many online platforms offer a wide selection of designer wear for every occasion. Not only do you save money, but you also reduce waste, win-win. Care for your clothes the sustainable way Sustainability isn't just about what you buy, it's also about how you maintain it. Washing your clothes less frequently, at cooler temperatures, and avoiding tumble dryers can extend the lifespan of garments and reduce energy use. Say goodbye to fast cycles and hello to fabric-friendly habits. Pro tip: Use eco-friendly detergents and skip dry cleaning when possible, many traditional methods use harsh chemicals that are harmful to both your clothes and the environment. Recycle responsibly When it's finally time to part ways with a garment, don't just toss it in the bin. Donate usable items to shelters or NGOs, and for unwearable clothes, look for textile recycling programs. Brands like H&M and Zara offer in-store recycling bins in select cities. You can also explore circular fashion platforms that accept old clothes and reintroduce them into the supply chain. Educate yourself and spread the word Being a conscious consumer is about staying informed. Watch documentaries like The True Cost, follow sustainable fashion influencers, and join conversations around ethical fashion. The more aware you are, the more powerful your choices become and you can inspire others to follow suit. Start a capsule wardrobe Minimalism meets functionality in a capsule wardrobe , a tightly curated collection of versatile pieces that you can mix and match endlessly. Think of it as your style signature: fewer clothes, more looks, zero stress. Building a capsule wardrobe reduces impulsive shopping and ensures every piece earns its place. This Earth Day, let fashion be your protest against overconsumption, waste, and environmental neglect. By making conscious wardrobe choices, you're not just saving the planet; you're redefining what it means to be stylish in 2025. Because sustainability is not a trend. It's the future of fashion and you can lead the way.
