- Meet Kelly Elkin -
There are many women who work with Ethical Collection London that have helped to create our amazing brand. In honour of these women, we are dedicating one day a week, Wednesday, to introduce them and celebrate their achievements. We sent each of the women seven questions to answer about their businesses, inspiration and life. This week, we would love to introduce you to the fantastic Kelly Elkin of ALAS.
An acronym for ‘All Light, All Shadow’, ALAS is a Sydney-based organic sleep and loungewear label. All garments are made in Tiruppur and Jaipur, India, complying with Fair Trade Standards in small factory units. ALAS uses AZ- and formaldehyde-free, low impact dyes and inks to protect the healths of their staff and the environment.
(Founders, Betony Dircks & Kelly Elkin (Right))
What inspired you to join/start your Ethical business?
The fashion industry is the second most polluting industry in the world, as a designer I believe we have a responsibility to make sure our production is ethical. For me it has always been common-sense to understand the process and impact my products have on the world.
What did you do before joining/starting the business?
I worked for various sustainable fashion businesses and brands in Australia and the UK, including my own start ups.
What are the 2 points (or more!) that makes your brand Sustainable/ethical?
Our fabrics are 100% sustainable, we use organic cotton, organic handwoven chambray and recycled polyester. Our dyes and inks are all formaldehyde and AZO free. All our woven garments are made in a fairtrade workshop and our organic cotton knits are GOTS certified.
What do you love the most about your job?
That I don't have to compromise my values and I get to surround myself with inspiring people.
How do you balance work/home life?
I make sure that I organise lots of social occasions which forces me to leave my desk even if I haven't finished my to do list! I also find that if I don't take time out to do excercise or relax, my work is affected.
What achievements are you most proud of in business and or life?!
I am proud of my three businesses, Clean Cut Fashion Association, Well made Clothes and ALAS, I am proud that I have played a role (no matter how small my businesses may be!) in creating more awareness for fair and sustainable fashion.
Who do you admire and why?
I admire my mother and grandmother. My mum had her first day of uni in her sixties and is studying archeology and paleo-anthropology, my grandmother is 90 and just had another solo art exhibition, she is also still very active and passionate at bringing art to rural and remote areas of Australia.
Shop ALAS the Label here!
