The Well Read. 0010
Before founding The Well Worn, I have always worked in fashion – from my first job as a designer in UK factory to Design Director at Fat Face. It was an exciting and fast-paced environment, one where I learned the ins and outs of the fashion industry—from trend forecasting and manufacturing to the dizzying speed of fast fashion.
The Beginnings
At first, I was drawn to the glamour and creativity of fashion, and I loved being part of an industry that shaped how people express themselves. But over time, I began to see the darker side of the business. I witnessed firsthand the unsustainable production methods, excessive waste, and labour exploitation that were all too common in fast fashion. The focus was always on getting products out quickly and cheaply, often at the expense of people and the planet.
The Turning Point
Disheartened, I decided to take a break, and it was during that inspired summer that my vision for The Well Worn began to take shape. I wanted to create a brand that focused on quality over quantity, offering timeless pieces inspired by my love of vintage finds and made from sustainable materials here in the UK. I imagined clothing that people could wear for years, not just a season—garments that were "well worn" in the best possible way. Beautiful clothes without compromise to people, the planet or design.
Taking the Leap
The early days were challenging. Building a brand from the ground up meant I had to wear many hats—designer, marketer, operations manager, and everything in between. There were moments of doubt, where I questioned whether people would embrace sustainable fashion in the way I hoped they would. But I was determined to create a brand that stayed true to my values of sustainability, transparency, and ethical production.
The Well Worn: A New Approach to Fashion
From the beginning, The Well Worn was about doing things differently. I made it a priority to source eco-friendly materials like deadstock fabrics, vintage fabrics, and worn clothes that could be reworked. I partnered with ethical manufacturers who ensured fair wages and safe working conditions for their employees. Every decision, from production to packaging, was made with sustainability in mind.
I didn’t want to create just another fashion brand; I wanted to challenge the way the industry operated. The Well Worn focused on slow fashion—producing smaller, more thoughtful collections that emphasised longevity. Each piece was designed to be versatile and durable, so it could be worn and loved for years, not just a single season.
Lessons Learned and Looking Forward
Starting The Well Worn has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It hasn’t always been easy - balancing the financial realities of running a business with my commitment to sustainability can be difficult, but it’s worth it. I’ve learned that there are consumers out there who care deeply about the impact of their choices and who are willing to support brands that share their values.
Today, The Well Worn is a growing community of like-minded individuals who believe in conscious consumption. We’re working together to redefine what fashion can look like when it’s done with care and consideration for people and the planet.
Looking back, I’m proud of the leap I took from my corporate job into entrepreneurship. It’s been a journey of learning, growth, and dedication to a cause I truly believe in. The Well Worn isn’t just a brand—it’s a movement toward a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry, and I’m grateful to be part of it.
