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π The truth about responsible sourcing
Published 2 days agoΒ β’Β 4 min read
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Hi Reader,
In this week's CFC newsletter, you'll find:
𧡠What responsible sourcing means in practice
𧡠Reads for resellers, climate solutions podcast to add to your queue, and a live sustainable sourcing expert Q&A
𧡠A $100K grant opportunity for women impact entrepreneurs and 5 remote sustainable fashion jobs
What does responsible sourcing really mean in practice?
Thatβs what we explored during our most recent roundtable β a CFC Member-led discussion that went beyond the buzzwords and into therealities of responsible sourcing, especially for independent slow fashion brands.
Here are 5 takeaways that emerged from last week's roundtable conversation with our members Micki Weiner, Dani Des Roches, and Jacqueline Schumann, moderated by Stella Hertantyo...
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1οΈβ£ Sustainable Sourcing is a Shared Responsibility
Ethical sourcing doesnβt start or stop with suppliers. Itβs a collaborative process involving founders, producers, and even customers.
Everyone in the value chain must play a role in building more transparent, values-aligned practices. The goal isn't outsourcing accountability β itβs on co-creating solutions.
2οΈβ£ Relationships Matter More Than Labels
Certifications have their place β but they arenβt a substitute for relationships. Speakers emphasized that respectful dialogue with suppliers, makers, and artisans is critical.
Instead of assuming what's best, ask: What do you need? What are your realities? This is where trust and innovation begin.
3οΈβ£ Understanding Culture and Context is Key
Whether you're working with local makers or overseas partners, understanding local infrastructure, working conditions, and pacing matters. Thoughtful sourcing considers not only what you buy, but how, where, and from whom you buy it.
4οΈβ£ Localized Production Can Be Great β But It's Complicated
The conversation turned toward tariffs and U.S. manufacturing, highlighting a critical nuance: while localizing production for transparency and reduced emissions is a shared goal, the reality is that U.S. apparel infrastructure is limited.
Panelist Micki shared that some essential materials for her circular lingerie brand, for example, are only produced in Europe. Abrupt tariffs on these imports disproportionately affect small brands already navigating tight margins and high sustainable material costs.
5οΈβ£ Begin With Entry Points, Not Ideal End Outcomes
Many sustainable founders feel paralyzed by not knowing the "perfect" sourcing route. But progress starts with asking good questions and taking steps that align with your capacity and commitments now β even if the supply chain isnβt perfectly circular or local (yet).
Sustainable sourcing is iterative, not instant.
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β‘οΈ Through it all, community helps you make better decisions.
The complexity of sustainable sourcing often feels isolating for slow fashion brands, but when you hear how others approach supplier negotiations, budget constraints, and shifting logistics, you're reminded that you don't need to navigate this alone. Community is strategy.
Being in conversation with peers β like in this CFC Membership roundtable β can help bring clarity.
Want to get a peek at the CFC Membership?
We're hosting our first-ever Open House with a behind-the-scenes look at the membership next week.
In this solutions-oriented β yet grounded β podcast scientist, policy expert, and conservation strategist Ayana Elizabeth Johnson takes a forward-looking approach to climate and culture.
Ayana interviews guests on a wide array of topics from environmental law (something I'm trying to learn more about!) to sustainable fashion to the role of media in climate action.
From secondhand news to interviews and resale industry deep-dives, Emily Stochl is the go-to writer I turn to to stay updated on all things secondhand fashion. Check out a few of Emily's recent free articles to get a preview:
Katina Boutis is the Senior Director of Sustainability & Sourcing at Everlane where she focuses on furthering the brand's mission to create change for good in the fashion industry by driving sustainability programs across the supply chain.
Katina has pioneered initiatives such as the Responsible Alpaca Standard certification and advocated for key legislation, such as the first climate laws passed in the US. Additionally, she led the publication of Everlaneβs third annual Impact Report, outlining its sustainability strategy, progress, and goals.
πΏ Don't miss this chance to ask a leading fashion sustainability expert your questions LIVE on Thursday, May 1st.
Textile Exchange is a global non-profit driving beneficial outcomes for climate and nature across the fashion, apparel, and textile industry. Check out the remote roles they're hiring for below:
The Cartier Women's Initiative is an annual international entrepreneurship program that aims to drive change by empowering women impact entrepreneurs around the world.
Why apply?
Financial Awards: Several $100K, $60K and $30K grants will be awarded for winners and runner-ups in each category
Access Fellowship Program: participate in 1:1 trainings and group workshops
Visibility & Support: international media visibility, mentorship by jury members, and ongoing support
βCurious about what the Conscious Fashion Collective Membership has to offer? Our virtual Open House is a unique chance to get a taste of our vibrant community of sustainable fashion founders and professionals.
You'll get a behind-the-scenes tour, hear from our current members, and get a chance to ask your questions to find out if the CFC Membership is right for you.