Q: How is True freshman sustainable? What is slow fashion?

A: Sustainability has admittedly turned into a buzzword over the years. When I began my education in fashion I had no idea the impact that fashion has on our global environment and all the egregious human rights violations this billion dollar industry relies on. It's impossible to imagine the scale of destruction.  From the way we dye our fabric, to the workplace conditions they’re sewn in, to the unbelievable waste received by the global south, there are so many ways that this industry actively creates and nurtures harm. “Fast fashion”, “eco-friendly”, “ethical” have become the prime examples of these buzzwords and effectively lost their meaning. There are very few laws and regulations that require brands to disclose anything about the roles we play in the ecological and ethical sphere. There is no legal standard for claiming sustainability, so, here is what it means to us. 

Ecologically: All of our fabric is sourced from local deadstock warehouses in Los Angeles. The term “deadstock” means that the fabric has reached the end of the line. These fabrics were unused for their original purpose, extremely old, or for some other reason unusable. The sale of the fabric does not impact markets, therefore, does not promote excess production. Using these fabrics reduces that waste, and takes things that already exist and give it a new life (with you!) instead of going in to a landfill. 

(This also means its possible for a fabric to sell out and there simply be none of the exact same left; i.e. fabric is subject to change and be slightly different over time.)

Additionally, all items are made-to-order. To reduce any form of fabric waste, items aren’t cut or sewn without a designated purpose. Everything is handmade one by one! If something doesn’t sell, the fabric will be used for something else, and no one is left with excess stock that is unworn and uncherished.

Ethically: All the clothes are made in Los Angeles in safe, comfortable conditions with a commitment to livable wages. 

Spiritually: A massive component of this brand and its project is to make clothes that you love; because when you love something you will wear it over and over again. This is inherently “sustainable” because one is less inclined to buy 3-4 mid tank tops, but have ONE you cherish and you will wear it for years and years to come. With the made-to-order model, we give you the option to include your measurements in the order checkout page under “special instructions”. Your clothes will fit you perfectly, making sure you will love them for a very long time.

A commitment to sustainability is not a trend, but must be embedded in each and every part of the creative process. We’re always open to improvement and appreciate your patience. 

Q: What is your return policy?

A: Because all garments are made-to-order, we do not offer the ability to return, as the garment is custom for YOU to love forever. Please contact us for any questions about fit, we want your item to be perfect for you.

Of course, if there is an issue with the quality of the garment, or a mistake is made on our part, we are happy to offer an exchange or return on a case-by-case basis.

Q: If everything is made-to-order, how long will it take?

A: You can expect to receive your order within 3-4 weeks of placing it!