As a fashion lover, I think trying to find your own sense of style is super important, something that for me has come with growing older and gaining a bit more confidence and understanding on what works on my body shape. I also think that finding some unique pieces will help make your style stand out that bit more. It’s always nice to discover new, creative design-led brands that deliver on style AND support an ethical or sustainable values. These days the mass produced garments produced by the high street that encourage a ‘throw away’ and ‘fast fashion’ culture (not to mention us all dressing the same!) mean brands are starting to realise more and more of us are growingly concerned about the environment and the impact the fashion industry has had on it. We are starting to shop more consciously and considerately, demanding more transparency in the fashion chain, whilst looking for some more alternative designs.
When I visited Omi Na Na’s boutique London pop up earlier this year I was delighted to see an original curation of unique global brands and styles that weren’t conforming to trends or seasons, each telling their own story whilst imposing ethical and sustainable values to the clothes. There was something for everyone - from boho floaty dresses with statement sleeves to the most incredible tailoring and shimmering party dresses. This diverse online store was set up by Esha, who says, “I wanted to play my part in the slow fashion movement and promote the idea that we can all wear better and reap the benefits of it as a global community.”
This consciously curated platform has the most interesting design-led pieces around and shows that fashion sustainability doesn’t have to mean boring but instead champions fun and authentic originality. Yes the prices are more expensive than the high street but these are pieces made in small batches - with better quality make and more premium fabrics and will be something you are proud to own for a long time and cherish, unlike so many high street fast fashions today. Plus, knowing you are being more thoughtful and considerate to the environment by shopping with these types of brands is worth a lot in itself.
I’ve styled 5 unique looks using pieces borrowed from Omi Na-Na’s current collections, mixed back with a few of my own accessories…
First up is this Merrylin Dress, I was instantly attracted to the midi length, warm cream fabric and rusty Autumn tones of the abstract print. Plus have you seen those dramatic oyster sleeves?! It works so well back with tan knee high boots and berry colours. I would also put a chunky knit cardigan over the top or layer it with a skinny rib polo neck underneath too. It would also be great for a winter wedding with some high heel courts, faux fur cape and a beaded clutch bag.
I’m wearing the large in these shots but could have probably sized down to the medium. It’s lined with the all essential pockets and the belt is adjustable. It’s made of handwoven chanderi fabric which is a very traditional Indian quality that has a sheer but sheeny texture and luxurious feel. It’s been hand screen printed and made as just a small batch of 10, don’t miss out!!
Merrylin Dress, £195 (also available in petite)
Next is the Valeria Green Shirt Dress by ethical, sustainable, slow fashion brand Rakha. I have styled the dress with faux leather skinny trousers and red ankle boots. The bright pistachio green fabric and unexpected attention to detail on this shirt dress are really interesting and make it stand out. The little pale pink colour pop on the collar and pleated back detail are super flattering, the looser fit makes it so comfy to wear and would also work well with tights or a pair of tailored trousers for more of a workwear look (where you could also tuck it in).
The silk like fabric is a heavy cupro (a waste product of cotton) which is vegan and also biodegradable as it’s easily recyclable as it’s made from 100% plant based materials. It’s also hypoallergenic, breathable, anti-static and stretch resistant. There is a very small run of sizes available.
You know my love of a good feminine boho dress with a statement sleeve! I instantly fell for the colours of this Autumn Blossom Maxi Dress by Jodi (who specialise in traditional hand-block printing Indian fabrics) after seeing it on Omi Na-Na’s Instagram feed. It’s one of those dress shapes that suit so many body shapes and sizes and is super flattering with a plunging neckline and double puffed statement sleeves. I styled it here with a pink rib rollneck tee underneath, cream ankle boots, saddle bag, vintage sunnies and heart hair clip to add some fun. It would also work with trainers or sandals in the Spring/ Summer.
Omi Na-Na champion traditional techniques and Jodi support local artisans who have seen a steady decline in trade over the last few decades. By creating new and interesting designs and partnering with local communities to bring them to life, a new, younger generation of printers have now decided to carry on the trade which is so good to hear. The blossom print is so beautiful and unique, knowing it has been made with such an original craft makes it feel that bit more special.
There is low stock on the smaller sizes of this now but plenty of sizes 12 - 16’s (L - XXL). I’m wearing a size L which fits well as a size 12. The dress also comes in petite options too, they are taking pre-orders on petite sizes until the end of the week.
Jumpsuits are now a wardrobe staple and work across all the seasons, I love them!! This handmade and hand-dyed Hint Of Mint Utility Jumpsuit by Norblack Norwhite is made of soft cotton twill. I totally fell for the unique minty aqua colour. It has little tabs on the side so you can adjust how nipped in you want it to be. I styled it here with metallic ankle boots and a rollneck but would also wear simply with white trainers too. Chuck on a faux fur jacket (this one is via Studio B) and you’re good to go for wintery styling!
I’m 5’7 and wearing medium. I would say if you have a long body or are taller than this then the jumpsuit may not work on you.
You can’t beat an amazing pair of tailored trousers. These Palermo Silk Trousers are by Ode To Odd, an ethical and sustainable slow fashion brand. They feel super premium and special on. The side pleats and up-cycled brass buttons make them unique and original. I’ve teamed them with cream ankle boots, a ditsy print jersey rollneck, green bag, beanie and statement earrings. I like the fact the trousers can be dressed up (a blouse and navy blazer would work well here) or down (trainers and a knit would look ace), they are very versatile.
They do have a higher price point as they are made of a heavy (but draped) handwoven Eri silk (which is also considered vegan) and all fabrics are woven in-house and garments made in-house.
Omi Na-Na embraces conscious living for the modern woman and I do hope that their exclusive, limited edition and memorable pieces make you consider looking at ethical and sustainable ‘slow fashion’ in a new light.
Omi Na Na will be showcasing all of these stunning brands and more at their new pop up from the 7th November - 7th December 2019 at 89 Nightingale Lane, SW12 8NX. Walk in’s and appointments will be available to see the ranges.
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www.ominana.com
*This sponsored post was commissioned by Omi Na-Na but all styling, photos and opinions are of course as always my own