Why do we carry clothing? Well, as Earth-lovers in perpetual pursuit of Canadian-made, environmentally-friendly clothing we know this quest can be a challenging one. The textile industry is a complex one; most clothing production takes place overseas and there are very few manufacturers with top marks in environmental practices and labour conditions. Much of our clothing is made with cotton, a lovely fabric but an unfortunately highly pesticide-laden crop.
While experimenting with different apparel manufacturer options, we learned about Mark Trotzuk of Vancouver. While most parents are moved by the birth of their children, very few take on the challenge of trying to change an entire industry. Mark Trotzuk of Vancouver, British Columbia, did just this. After the 2005 birth of his daughter, named Rio Raine, Mark was inspired to take a green approach to fashion. Trotzuk soon founded Rio Rain Ecoapparel, which has expanded to include a daughter company, Echo Rain.
In a time when reducing your ecological footprint has become the newest rage, this line of clothing can get you there in comfortable, urban chic styles, without breaking your budget. With over 20 different fabrics and blends, all containing at least 50 percent organic, sustainable or recycled materials, Rio Rain/Echo Rain is sure to impress even the most fashion-savvy shopper.
Most people would agree that when they’re shopping for new clothes, style, quality and price are three of the most important factors. Echo Rain apparel has these aspects well covered. A few of the many items designed include suit jackets with matching skirts, bamboo dresses, fashion-forward hoodies and athletic clothing-style is certainly not sacrificed. The quality of Echo Rain clothing is unparalleled- durable, color-fast, stretch-resistant, anti-shrink, highly breathable, flexible, anti-wrinkle, and easy to care for. “It looks amazing, feels incredibly good, is environmentally friendly, and is totally affordable. What more can you ask for?” wonders Kaeli Spence of Home Hardware Lloydminster.
People don’t necessarily buy something because it’s “green” or eco-friendly; they buy because it’s cool, has a great look and feel, and a good price. The Rio Rain/ Echo Rain brands are dedicated to raising awareness about environmentally-friendly alternatives, rather than their bottom line-in today’s economy this is especially refreshing to hear. The company is involved in 1% For The Planet, an environmental cause in which 1% of profits are donated to help environmental organizations. Rio Rain is also a “bluesign” Brand Member (www.bluesign.com) and is committed to implementing the “bluesign” system to ensure their products meet the highest Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Standards.
Owner Mark is thorough when it comes to the company being as environmentally-friendly as possible; even the store is made from sustainable products including reclaimed wood from an old barn as well as energy efficient light bulbs.
“I think Echo Rain is a great addition to our store; the company’s values align with ours: environmentally friendly, impeccable quality, at an affordable price. ”says Home Hardware Lloydminster owner Sarah Rurka. “We spent a lot of time looking for a line that was both sustainable and Canadian-made, two things that were very important to us, and we are so happy with these clothes. They are unique, stylish and fantastically comfortable! We wanted to carry clothing that would be multi-functional, and easily transition from workout wear, to travel wear, to at home clothing. We are proud to be able to share these new fashions with Lloydminster.”
The meaning of the Rio Rain and Echo Rain is important to Mark. He explains that his daughter Rio doesn’t have a voice in the world now-neither do any of the children on this planet nor those coming after them. So, while the Rio Rain/ Echo Rain brand is about amazingly soft materials and cute styles, it’s also about hope for future generations and doing the right thing.
Want to read more about this Canadian Company?