Ethically and Environmentally Responsible Merino Wool Brand? Opaline Hue It Is
The merits of merino wool are many. It is sustainable, biodegradable, breathable, soft to the touch, a natural insulator, and has a unique ability to adapt to changes in your body’s temperature. However, these benefits sometimes overshadow some ethical considerations.
I used to believe that harvesting a sheep’s wool was akin to a haircut. Then a few years ago Peta.org released footage showing a number of horrifying animal right abuses in the shearing sheds in the US and Australia (which together account for 90% of the world’s wool) which changed my perception of wool production completely. The welfare of sheep is a serious ethical consideration and due to the complexity of supply chains even some progressive brands fail to verify that their wool was sourced ethically and animals were treated in a humane way.
Since there are not many brands who can ensure their merino is traceable and non-mulesed I was elated to discover the ethical brand Opaline Hue which uses sustainable and ethically sourced wool.
about opaline Hue
Opaline Hue is an American brand that produces high quality clothing from cruelty-free merino wool sourced from the first merino manufacturer to have fully traceable fibers. Their fibers originate from New Zealand and Australia where farmers are committed to upholding the best practices for healthy and happy sheep. The brand’s supplier is committed to a supply chain that is socially, ethically and environmentally responsible which ensures high standards for farm management and workplace practices. All the wool is non-mulesed.
Design approach
Opaline Hue designs classic & timeless pieces that are adaptable as daily wear or can be styled for more formal occasions. Versatility and comfort are a top priority which is achieved when classical design is paired with a highly functional fabric. The brand uses merino wool fabric that boasts wrinkle resistance, easy wash and breathability. The garments are designed to serve us years to come and be the main-stays in our wardrobe. Opaline Hue’s products are also quite easy to take care of as they are naturally antibacterial and thus prevent odours. That means they will require less washing and will reduce our environmental impact. Furthermore, Opaline Hue is responding to the material waste problem fueled by fast fashion and adopts a made-to-order approach to reduce the waste of unsold garments.
Transparency
Opaline Hue is one of a handful of brands that disclose the information pertaining to their supply chain policies and practices and allows people to know who made their clothes and how they were made. The fibers that are harvested from New Zealand and Australia, are later spun in China at a Bluesign Partner factory, knit, treated and then dyed in Thailand to Bluesign Systems standards. Their factory is located in Alabama and is entirely committed to ethical business practices. The skilled sewers who work at their factory are paid fair wages and have quarterly safety training and dedicated safety support. Additionally, staff are supported and encouraged to learn new skills and thus increase their wage.
Beyond the guaranteed ethics, traceable supply chain, and the quality craftsmanship, Opaline Hue’s pieces shine thanks to their timeless design. So if you’re looking for sustainable and cruelty-free merino wool garments then Opaline Hue is the brand for you.