Eco-Bride by Dimity

The Eco-Bride by Dimity

We are all aware of the vast negative affects the global textile industry has on the environment. Our wedding day is one day in which all our dreams become a reality – including the 10 plus metres of polyester, nylon, and unethical silks. With the current trend for hosting “eco-weddings”, it is interesting to note the lack of concern when it comes to the wedding gown – mostly as a result of a lack of options and availability of alternate products for South African brides.

Designer and lecturer of Fashion Design at the Durban University of Technology, Wendy Schultz, is currently building her prototype Eco-Bride range and hopes it will be the first truly environmentally friendly range produced in South Africa.

Previously, Wendy has run her bridal and celebration wear label Dimity creating custom gowns (fit for the couture ramp) for clients, but since having started her Master’s Degree in Fashion & Textiles, intends to convert all gowns produced into hand-made environmentally-friendly pieces.

Fabrics are sourced as locally as possible. Vintage fabrics and laces are sourced at local antique shops, but new organic fabrics such as hemp and peace silk are only available overseas. South African farms are not yet producing enough organic fibres to supply the local textile industry, so while our factories are certified and environmentally-compliant, the raw materials spun into yarns are not organic. Carbon neutralising activities are implemented by Dimity to reduce the negative affects importing has on the environment.

The Dimity brand also includes re-worked gowns, so for the sentimental brides whose mom’s kept their gowns – a service is offered whereby a new gown is created out of the old. Your trousseau collection of lace and textiles can also be incorporated into a new style.

Wendy’s design ethos is to follow emotionally durable design styles and a conservative use of raw materials. All off-cut fabric is kept for use in hairpieces, small purses and bunting for the wedding day! Wendy uses old architect’s plans as pattern paper, and all other paper and plastic waste is recycled. Arrangements are also underway to utilise the skills of local beaders to do all finishing and embellishments on gowns.

Wendy’s M-Tech specific Eco-Bride range is due for launch at the end of 2010; however, all brides are welcome to get in contact with Wendy in the mean time to commission their earth-friendly dream gown. Visit www.dimity.co.za  to view previous ranges and products, or contact Wendy at wendy@dimity.co.za or +27 83 334 0250 for further details.

I am thrilled to say that I have found a wedding dress designer who is passionate about her work and the environment.  In the use of vintage fabrics she is in the process of creating works of bridal art.  

Thanks for stopping by,

Faye