The Story Behind the Good Name Collective

Hello! my name is Angela, founder of Good Name Collective and this is my first blog post, (sorry it’s a long one).

I'm often asked, 'Why Sri Lankan fashion?' I understand that most people don't immediately associate Sri Lanka with the fashion industry – I certainly didn't before moving to Sri Lanka in January 2023.

But let me go back to the beginning for a bit of context. Even before our move to Sri Lanka, I was already becoming aware of the fashion industry's waste problem. I had started questioning my own fashion practices, where my clothes were coming from, their composition and their eventual destination once I was done with them. I stumbled upon documentaries and articles highlighting the immense quantities of discarded clothes and textiles, many of which ultimately find their way to places like Ghana and, as I recently discovered, the Atacama desert in Chile. Because, excess fabrics, unwanted clothes and items that op-shops are not able to sell (despite our best intentions), must find a place to go. To learn more about where they are likely to end up, you can read:

       Dead White Man’s Clothes

       How Ghana Became Fast Fashion's Dumping Ground

       Fast Fashion Goes to Die in the World's Largest Fog Desert

I’m not going to pretend I’m an expert on the topic, but what I saw, read and learned was enough to spark in me the desire to make small changes and to try to do better. I guess we all have to start somewhere, and for me learning about the impact of the fashion industry certainly opened my eyes and led me to question where my clothes were coming from.

But back to the original question, why Sri Lanka? Well, call it luck or destiny, but life brought my family and I to Colombo where I stumbled upon a number of local brands and designers. Initially it was all about the designs, the simplicity, the colours, the fabrics, but as I got to know some of them better, I learned that Sri Lanka has a pretty well-established apparel manufacturing industry that is increasingly focusing on environmentally sustainable practices. And this is where the concept for Good Name Collective was born, it is my answer to the question of "Why not support Sri Lankan fashion and contribute to a more sustainable future for the fashion industry?"

Fast Facts about the Sri Lankan manufacturing industry:

Sustainable Manufacturing Practices: Sri Lanka has made significant strides in promoting sustainable and ethical manufacturing practices within its apparel industry. Many local brands and manufacturers prioritize eco-friendly production methods, reducing their carbon footprint and minimizing waste generation.

Ethical Labour Practices: The Sri Lankan government and the apparel industry have worked together to establish stringent labour laws and regulations. This ensures fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for skilled employment in the sector. 

Innovation in Sustainable Fabrics: Sri Lanka is at the forefront of developing and using sustainable fabrics. From organic, up-cycled and excess fabrics, local designers and manufacturers are increasingly incorporating eco-friendly textiles into their creations. 

Reducing Fashion Waste: The industry in Sri Lanka is proactive in minimizing excess fabric waste and repurposing materials.

Supporting Local Artisans and Designers: Sri Lanka boasts a wealth of talent in the fashion industry, from skilled artisans to innovative designers. By choosing Sri Lankan fashion, you are supporting these local talents and helping them thrive on a global stage.

Transparency and Traceability: Many Sri Lankan brands prioritize transparency and traceability in their supply chains. This means you can have confidence in knowing where and how your clothing is made.

Unique and Diverse Designs: Sri Lankan fashion offers a unique blend of cultural influences and contemporary designs. From traditional handwoven fabrics to modern, chic styles, there is a wide range of options to suit various tastes and occasions.

Supporting the growing movement of sustainable fashion through Good Name Collective is a powerful step towards a more sustainable and ethical wardrobe. Together, we can inspire others to make conscious fashion choices that benefit our planet and its people.

Welcome and thank you for supporting my journey!

Angela (Founder, Good Name Collective)