Our trend insights ~ keeping it chic and real!

Planet conscious design is taking over in the fashion world. Gone are the days of glorifying big fast fashion brands - the focus is shifting to supporting smaller, eco-friendly designers. To help you stay ahead of the trend, we’ve put together our top tips for staying sustainable this year.

~ Reducing the use of animal products ~

Awareness and empathy towards our furry friends has been increasing over recent years, with an increase in cruelty free products available on the market - and this has extended into the fashion world, too. Ethical alternatives are set to be a huge trend in 2019 - opt for accessories that use sustainable, eco-friendly materials or recycled options.

Hemp is a wonderful alternative fabric for clothing, and is one of the most sustainable products on the planet. It’s versatility means that not only can it form breathable clothing, it can also be used in food and home products. Another source of eco-fabric is bamboo, which can be used to create durable, biodegradable garments.

It’s not just clothing - plants can also be used to craft jewellery, too. Demec, one of our unique jewellery designers, uses a palm seed also known as vegetable ivory to create their stunning pieces. The colour, density and hardness of the seed is uncannily similar to animal ivory - but without the need to resort to using animal products.

~ Using unusual and creative materials ~

Plastic waste has risen to prominence over the past few years. Globally, we produce around 300 million tonnes of plastic per year - most of which is sadly single use and inevitably ends up in our oceans or landfill. Many big brands have taken a stand, reducing their use of plastic bags, bottles, cups and straws.

Emerging independent designers are finding innovative ways to craft products without plastic. Plant-based plastic brands, such as Mycofoam (mushrooms), QMilch (milk) and Piñatex (pineapple), have blended science with fashion to formulate eco-friendly alternatives.

Here at Seekd, we support the anti-plastic revolution by handpicking designers that use unique, creative materials.The striking industrial pieces from K:ss Creations are crafted from concrete, wood and copper - the concrete comes from a low carbon cement made from by-products of the iron industry, ensuring the finished product is sustainably made.

Feeling bold? Truly stand out from the crowd with a piece from the incredible Tonya O’Hara. Her fascinating galactic creations are out of this world, made from salvaged or recycled acrylic.

~ Find your ethical gems ~

Gemstone mining is difficult to trace, and mining methods and conditions are hard to measure when it comes to ensuring the process is moral, safe and humane. The mostly unregulated practice occurs in 47 countries globally, and raises numerous ethical questions.

Gemstone mining has a huge impact on the workers and local community. Miners work in precarious, dangerous conditions under the constant risk of collapsing tunnels, for a startlingly low pay.

Gemstones are not an infinite resource, meaning mining can never be a sustainable practice, but it’s important to check that the process is done with as little damage to the environment as possible. Mining can cause pollution, damage to animal habitats and erosion to the surrounding landscape - something to think about when selecting your next sparkly accessory.

Here at Seekd, we’ve got you covered with Natalie Perry, Hep Audrey and Tiana Jewel. Each of their stunning gems is handpicked and ethically sourced, enhancing the natural beauty of the jewels. If you’re seeking something golden, look no further than Praba 750. Their quality pieces are crafted from solid recycled gold at a fair price, creating a sustainable value chain.