Meet 5 Women Shaping Sustainable Fashion Around the Globe

As International Women's Day approaches on March 8th, Brave Soles wants to celebrate some incredible women who are making waves in the world of sustainable fashion. 

Each of these women are inspiring for their leadership and vision, for their focus on sustainability, and for using their voices to push for positive change in the industry.

We invite you to take a moment and learn how they are making a difference! 

BETHANY YELLOWTAIL, NATIVE AMERICAN FOUNDER, DESIGNER & CEO OF B.YELLOWTAIL

CREDIT IMAGE: B.YELLOWTAIL

Bethany Yellowtail, a member of the Northern Cheyenne Nation and descendant of the Crow Nation, is the designer and founder of B.YELLOWTAIL, an apparel brand that celebrates her Indigenous heritage. 

A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Bethany leverages her expertise to create unique and empowering designs that are ethically made. Beyond fashion, she is an active organizer in her Tribal nations and uses her platform to uplift women and girls.

ANIFA MVUEMBA, FOUNDER & DESIGNER OF HANIFA

CREDIT IMAGE: HANIFA

Anifa Mvuemba, founder of Hanifa, is a trailblazing Congolese-American designer revolutionizing sustainable fashion. Her groundbreaking 3D virtual fashion show in 2020 showcased her commitment to sustainability by minimizing environmental impact. Anifa prioritizes ethical manufacturing and eco-friendly materials, advocating for transparency in the fashion industry. 

Through Hanifa, she challenges norms, promotes inclusivity, and inspires women of colour, proving that sustainable fashion can be both innovative and impactful.

AYESHA BARENBLAT, FOUNDER & CEO OF REMAKE

CREDIT IMAGE: AYESHA BARENBLAT

Ayesha Barenblat is a forward-thinking social entrepreneur with over 15 years of expertise in advancing sustainability and social justice within the fashion realm. Leading Remake, she inspires collective action toward fostering a more equitable and transparent fashion landscape. Ayesha's proficiency extends across public policy and brand engagement, where she has passionately strived to enhance labor conditions in garment factories globally. Armed with a master's degree from the University of California, Berkeley, she remains steadfast in her commitment to elevating the voices of fashion's indispensable workers and effecting positive industry-wide transformation.

KAVITA PARMAR, FOUNDER OF IOWEYOU

Kavita Parmar shines as a true visionary with her brand, IOU Project. By intertwining her Indian heritage with a profound commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability, Kavita has transformed the fashion landscape. IOU Project's unique traceability concept allows consumers to connect with the artisans behind their garments, highlighting fair labor practices and eco-friendly materials. Through her pioneering efforts, Kavita not only champions transparency and ethical production but also advocates for a more mindful approach to fashion consumption.

NOOR FARES, FOUNDER & DESIGNER OF NOOR FARES

CREDIT IMAGE: NOOR FARES

Noor Fares, a Lebanese fashion designer, embodies the intersection of craftsmanship and sustainability in her exquisite jewelry creations for brand Noor Fares. 

She uses organic and recycled materials to create luxurious and innovative designs that challenge traditional perceptions of Middle Eastern fashion.

These are just a few examples of the many incredible women who are leading the way in sustainable fashion.

Brave Soles is proud to be an Indigenous and women owned brand. Fashion can do good and we believe that together, all of our choices matter. Supporting women owned businesses isn't just a good thing to do; it's one of the key ways that we can build a more just and fair future, one choice at a time.

Happy International Women’s Day!