Our Story
Beautiful clothes without compromise.
Our Founder
With more than 20 years of experience as a fashion designer, our founder Emma Shaw grew increasingly alarmed by the overconsumption and waste generated by the fashion industry. Despite working for many well-known brands, Emma knew that there had to be a better way. She became convinced that a more sustainable approach to fashion was not only possible but necessary.
The Beginning
"During the sabbatical summer, after spending 20 years working in the fashion industry, I had a lightbulb moment. It was the summer of endless sand, and I was having fun with my kids, finding adventures, and playing in the waves. However, I started to think about what's next for me. I still loved designing and making clothes, but I didn't like the compromises that often came with it. I wanted my next chapter to be more personal and reflective of my values.
I wanted to find a better way to create clothes that didn't compromise on design, quality, and the environment. That's why I decided to go back to my beginnings - my love of UK factories, well-considered design, and extending the life of the worn. I wanted to find my community of like-minded people who shared my values for fashion and ethics.
I’m taking that leap of faith and following my passion.
So here it is - my idea - The Well Worn.
Beautiful clothes without compromise.
No landfill - no waste - no compromise.
Made in the UK.
I decided to follow my dream. Wish me luck!
Emma x "
What's in a name?
"Our name, The Well Worn, is a play on words that we carefully crafted and we thought long and hard about each word.
'The' is our community and refers to the like-minded people who share our values for fashion and ethics."
'Well' signifies positivity, fun, and sustainability,
'Worn' signifies our commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable and ethical items that will become future treasures."
Positive Impact
Emma has pioneered sustainable fashion economy from the very beginning, and has received recognition from Grazia, The Great British Entrepreneur Awards and FT Weekend among others.
Member of UKFT
By becoming a member of UKFT we are helping to build a stronger UK fashion and textile industry.
'UKFT is committed to delivering sustainable growth for the entire UK fashion and textile supply chain. We bring together brands, designers, manufacturers, suppliers, educators and retailers to promote their businesses and our industry, both in the UK and throughout the world.'
Meet the Team
Emma - Founder & Designer
After 20 years in the industry working as a Design Director for brands and retailers Emma is now doing her dream job! It was always her ambition to start a sustainable brand that makes everything in the UK.
Milly - Intern
Coming up to her final year at WSA studying Fashion Design Milly is working on everything design related in the studio. She is hands-on in the full design process, from concept development to final production, with a strong focus on sustainability and ethical practices.
Florence - Intern
As a Fashion Marketing student at Winchester University Florence works on all things customer focussed. This includes creating engaging content for social media, analysing market trends, and supporting campaigns that resonate with environmentally conscious consumers.
Julie - Factory Owner
Julie makes our made-to-order pieces and I don't think there is a thing she doesn't know about making clothes.
Lorraine - Machinist
Highly skilled and knows how to make the perfect dress - also comes up with the best ideas.
Coco - The Studio Dog
She's scruffy but thats why we love her - also a bit partial to a ball!