Arc & Bow brings the fun to slow fashion with bold prints and striking silhouettes
No bones about it – we are absolutely frothing over the amount of choice that is available in the sustainable clothing community at the moment. While many brands are favouring the more basic and monochromatic route, there are still options available for those who prefer to get a little bit loud with their wardrobe (but would prefer to do so with minimal damage to the environment). Arc & Bow is a New Zealand-based brand that is bringing the fun back to slow fashion with its bold prints and striking silhouettes.
Arc & Bow’s story starts back in 2013 with founder Lizzie Turner. Originally the brand was manufactured in China out of a family-owned factory with whom Lizzie had a great and trusting professional relationship, but things took a turn when the manufacturers suddenly barred Lizzie and her team from visiting the factory with no notice. The lack of transparency was something that Lizzie couldn’t abide by, so she moved manufacturing operations to India. This shift saw operations become totally ethical, sustainable and open, with the team kept in the loop with all operations. The manufacturers that Arc & Bow works with are all committed to environment, community and culture, which adds another layer of goodness to the whole deal.
When it comes to aesthetics, the Arc & Bow approach is to stand out. All garments and prints are designed in New Zealand and produced by artisans in Jaipur. All of the brand’s manufacturers work with GOTS certified cotton to create hand-woven fabrics, utilising both traditional and modern techniques including denim weaving. Arc & Bow’s signature style of bright, punchy and bold prints is spread across a range of capsule collections released throughout the year, each drawing upon a distinct inspiration and theme.
Want to add a splash of character to your wardrobe? You can shop the full range of Arc & Bow wares through The Mane Project’s website.