In an era where ethical and environmental awareness is at the forefront of most consumers’ minds, the market rewards sustainable practices, for the most part. In 2023, the modern consumer expects ethical and sustainable products to be of the same if not greater, quality than its status-quo replacement. Think of the endless debates surrounding the environmental value of paper straws compared to their ability to serve as an effective straw. However, when consumers do see the value of an eco-friendly alternative, they will not only make the switch, but they will champion the brand and the cause it stands for.
esby callie dress in noir gingham
Photo Credit: Whit Mcguire
Think of the support Tesla has garnered for electric vehicles simply by investing in an environmentally responsible automobile that actually looks cool. Outside of the automotive industry, nowhere is this tension more apparent than in fashion. The fashion industry is dominated by two types of brands at either end of the spectrum. Classic designer brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton mostly rely on high-quality materials and limited, handmade production methods while fast fashion like Zara and Uniqlo mostly rely on cheap materials and mass, industrial production methods. While the formers effect on the environment is negligible, the latters effect is absolutely devastating — not to mention the inhumane working conditions. Unfortunately, because of these factors, designer fashion is often too expensive for the average consumer while fast fashion is a necessary evil for most with its lower price points. However, slow fashion is gaining momentum as entrepreneurs and brands strive to produce a disruptive new model that emphasizes style, ethical supply chain practices, and consumer- friendly costs. By centering these values and incorporating them into an overall mission and community, esby is a lifestyle brand that is threading this needle in fashion.
esby founder, Stephanie Beard
Photo Credit: Cydney Cosette
Standing in opposition to fast fashion, esby is the apex of all of Beard’s personal an professional experiences. The name esby, which now stands for Ethical and Sustainable Brand for You originally came from the sound of her initials: S.B. As the Founder, CEO, and Creative Director of esby, Beard oversees the design and production processes here in the States. Pieces are designed in Austin and produced in Dallas, San Antonio, Los Angeles, and New York. Each garment is made with all-natural, pre-washed, and pre-shrunk materials, ensuring that the designs are true to fit on their first wear.
esby mary dress & lenny workshirt
Photo Credit: Whit Mcguire
Both the materials and designs are durable and meant to last a lifetime with vintage yet classic styles and silhouettes. Esby products are never made with plastic or synthetic materials. Instead, Beard meticulously sources the best linen and cotton from Italy, Japan, France, and the U.S. Each style is produced in small batches to avoid waste and reduce emissions. If there are leftover fabrics, the esby team repurposes the materials into new styles. “I’ve always wanted esby pieces to be your favorite clothes in your closet: your go-to items that you know you look good in and feel good wearing,” explained Beard. “Therefore, esby has to last – which is why we pay so much attention to quality fabrics and construction.”
esby chelle top, harriette top & lucia pant.
Photo Credit: Whit Mcguire
Beards vision extends beyond clothing, as esby is actively expanding its reach as a lifestyle brand with the help of IGNITE! Family of Companies.Beard and the esby team recently released their very first lifestyle journal. Printed on 100% recycled paper with plant-based ink, each issue will feature articles on a variety of subjects from recipes to music and more, in addition to a catalog of new clothes. Beard plans to release six issues each year and hopes it will be a beautiful addition to customers’ coffee tables. Looking further to the future, Beard is already working on bringing back her highly successful #esbyfest experience during next years South by Southwest. Before the pandemic, Beard and the esby team put together a one-of-a-kind fashion show featuring music, drinks, and a highly immersive display of new styles. In a disruptive spin on the typical fashion show format, all of the clothing modeled at the show was available for immediate purchase. Beard is excited to bring the event back and continue to find new ways for esby to connect to the community. Please visit esby’s website and Instagram to learn more about the brand or become a VIP member by joining esby’s text message list
Presented by: Darby Jones
