Business Reporter – Management – Luxury women’s fashion doesn’t have to be unsustainable

Made-to-order: the future of sustainable fashion

The fast fashion model relies on producing vast quantities of low-cost, low-quality clothing, much of which goes unsold and is ultimately discarded. This system not only harms the environment but also supports unethical labour practices and ignores the diversity of consumers’ needs. Sinclair London’s made-to-order approach addresses these shortcomings head-on.

The flexibility of the MTO model allows Sinclair London to cater to a wide range of body shapes and sizes, allowing women to wear garments tailored specifically to them. This inclusivity extends to women with unique requirements, such as those with disabilities or sensitivities to certain fabrics, promoting a more equitable fashion landscape.

Moreover, Sinclair London’s adoption of just-in-time (JIT) manufacturing methods ensures that garments are produced only when needed, further reducing waste as well as the financial risks associated with unsold inventory. This approach has proven particularly helpful in a post-Brexit landscape, where supply chain disruptions have increased.

Sinclair London leverages cutting-edge technology that also enhances sustainability. Innovative 3D design software is used to streamline its supply chain, reduce operational costs and improve customisation options for clients. Advanced AI-powered applications provide smart fit recommendations, helping consumers find their ideal size and reducing return rates – a critical step toward minimising waste.

Even the leftover fabric from client orders is repurposed. Sinclair London donates offcuts to the Jimmy Choo Academy, supporting the next generation of designers and ensuring that no material goes to waste. This circular approach to fashion underscores the brand’s dedication to sustainability at every stage of the garment lifecycle.

Sinclair London’s commitment to sustainability is matched by its dedication to empowering women. The brand’s mantra, “We’re not trying to change the world; we simply dress the women who do,” reflects its mission to celebrate and support female leaders and influencers. As a female-owned business in the traditionally male-dominated tailoring industry, Sinclair London champions inclusivity and works to level the playing field for women.

Recognising the diversity of women’s bodies, the brand’s tailored fits ensure that every client experiences the confidence that comes with a perfectly fitted garment. This emphasis on individuality and empowerment is a refreshing departure from the one-style-fits-all approach of fast fashion.

A leading model for the future

The brand’s creations and tailoring services have been endorsed by prominent figures, including Olympic medallist Rebecca Adlington, and singers Leigh-Anne Pinnock and Rita Ora, further cementing its reputation for quality and innovation. Through collaborations with the film industry and its commitment to educating consumers on sustainability, Sinclair London continues to influence the broader conversation around responsible fashion.

Sinclair London exemplifies how luxury fashion can harmoniously coexist with sustainability. By embracing a made-to-order model, upholding ethical production practices and empowering women through timeless design and traditional quality, the brand is not only setting a new standard for sustainable fashion but also inspiring a broader movement toward responsible consumption.