ACHIEVEMENTS
- We're committed to working with more natural fibres including Wool, Cotton, Cupro, Bamboo, and Linen. As of 2023, over 58% of our garments are crafted from 100% natural fibres, regenerated cellulose fibres, or partially from recycled materials.
- We have thoughtfully increased the use of recycled fibres in each collection.
- All prints and styles are designed in-house with a focus on easy-wearing and effortless styles rather than trends.
- We have 1.6x longer production times, making the conscious decision to take more time at each stage of the production process, including range planning, pattern design, sampling and quality control to ensure garments are perfected.
PRODUCT
INCLUSIVITY AND FIT
We’re constantly striving to improve the fit of our products. We know that no two bodies are the same, below are some of the design techniques we use to accommodate a range of body types:
BIAS CUT
When the garment pattern pieces are cut on a 45 degree angle, increasing the stretch of the garment and allowing the style of dress/skirt to comfortably drape over multiple body shapes creating a comfortable, flattering fit.
ADJUSTABILITY
To ensure our garments accommodate a variety of body types, we incorporate features like adjustable straps for different torso lengths, elasticated waistbands for ease of fit, and drawcords for a customisable fit.
CHEMICAL TESTING
Our Linen has been tested for chemicals and heavy metals and meets the non-detection guidelines as set by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO).
REGENERATED AND NATURAL FIBRES
We’re committed to using better materials. We’re always learning and improving on what we do, and we’re sure that in time, there will be new conversations about fibres and cutting edge textiles on the market.
PLANET
PACKAGING
We have partnered with Unicorn packaging who are committed to giving back to the environment. They are doing this through a dedicated partnership with One Tree; who plants a tree for every product sold. All VRG GRL products and orders are packed in ABA Australia certified compostable mailer and poly bags made from corn starch and a blend of PLA and PBAT. They’re printed with soy non-toxic water based ink to ensure compostability and will 90% biodegrade at 20-30 degrees celsius within 180 days. Our packaging company is also Certified by the Australian Seedling Standard and the Home Compostable Verification. Our mailer and poly bags can go in your home compost bin, and if you don’t have one then you could do one of the following examples;
- Check your council’s website for a garden waste collection.
- Find a local compost facility.
RESPONSIBILITY OFFICER
We have a dedicated Responsibility Officer in our HQ who is driving our sustainability initiatives, working to optimise energy consumption, improve waste management, enhance fabric utilisation, and source more sustainable materials.
SOLAR
As part of our dedication to reduce our emissions, we recently had solar panels installed on our HQ roof and are revolutionising how we power our operations. We now generate 69% of our HQ’s energy needs directly from our rooftop solar, making a significant cut in our energy consumption.
ETHICAL TRADE
All our products are designed in-house in Australia and manufactured in China. Our Tier 1 manufacturing partners must adhere to our Ethical Trade Policy. This code of conduct sets out the standards of employment and working conditions that are required to be met at all stages of our supply chain.
The elements of this policy are to be used as minimum requirements for working, and the policy is based on the Ethical Trade Initiative (ETI). This sets out worldwide standards of labour practice and is an alliance of retailers, manufacturers, NGOs and trade union organisations. The policy covers; but is not limited to:
- TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT; Employment agreements are in place for all employees which specify fair working conditions.
- WORKING CONDITIONS; Are clean, safe and comfortable.
- DISCRIMINATION and RESPECTFUL TREATMENT
- WORKING HOURS and WAGES; Garment workers are paid on a per hour rate - not per garment. Rates are paid fairly in accordance with national wage standards. Overtime is optional and paid hourly at an overtime rate.
- HEALTH, SAFETY and SECURITY
- ADHERENCE TO ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS
- NO CHILD LABOUR
We are ensuring that our manufacturing partners are adhering to the standards set out in the ETP by conducting independent annual SMETA audits of all our suppliers.
LOOKING AHEAD
We recognise the role we play within the fashion industry and are committed to making a positive impact on our planet and community.
We don’t have all the answers, but we are committed to using our resources and influence to drive meaningful change. As we learn and evolve, we pledge to continuously refine our approach and strive for ongoing change.
Here’s how we’re set to make an impact:
- Transparency and Accountability: From 2025, we will publish an annual Responsibility Report detailing our progress towards achieving our sustainability goals.
- Reduce Head Office Carbon Footprint: Evaluate and reduce the carbon emissions of our head office through the use of renewable energy, enhanced waste management practices, and sustainable office supplies.
- Tier 2 Supplier Audits: Conduct independent audits of Tier 2 suppliers by 2025 to ensure they meet our ethical and quality standards.
- Reusable Material Policy: Ensure that 100% of excess usable materials are reused or recycled by 2026.
- Responsible Cotton Sourcing: Commit to sourcing all cotton from the most responsible solution by 2025.
- Recycled Polyester Commitment: Guarantee that any polyester used in our products comes from recycled sources by 2025.
- B Corp Certification: Achieve B Corp Certification by 2026 as part of our commitment to responsible business practices.
- Fabric Sourcing and Testing: Continue enhancing the sourcing and testing of the fabrics we use to align with our sustainability and quality standards.
