Member Spotlight

The Fath Collective

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The Fath Collective’s mission is to re-frame how we wear, care for, and share our clothing. They design with purpose, embedding empathy into all things they create. They believe that clothing is not just fabric we put on our bodies; it’s the story we want to tell, the identity we build, and the community we want to be a part of. We believe clothing is used to connect and convey our personalities and to step into the day on the right foot. They aspire to build community and change the narrative around the relationships we have with our clothing through circular, human centric design.

Why did you become a member?

We believe in the power of community. Change doesn’t happen alone. As a family owned and operated business, we embrace the “it takes a village” mentality to support the greater, sustainable good. This expands past our biological and chosen family. The more we can build our network and grow together, the more positive change can come about.

What does a circular economy mean to your organization?

The circular economy is a system in which we make smarter choices, as both producers and consumers, in regards to the lifecycle of our purchases and products. It’s taking the time to consider all phases of a process life cycle: it’s past, it’s life brand new, and it’s future. Circularity is strategizing and using today’s knowledge and technology to improve on systems of the past and create good for the future.

How is your organization practicing circularity?

All materials we use are sourced from pre-consumer samples, vintage garments, and/or deadstock materials. We are dedicated to giving new life to pieces that have seen their day. From full upcycles and redesigns to mending and alterations, we strive to encourage our consumer to care for their clothing differently and extend its livelihood. All of our products are made by hand by Vanessa and Isabel in our Fishtown studio or home in New Jersey.

How can others advance the circular economy?

Start small! It’s a huge feat to jump into and can be daunting. Start by looking in your closet, understanding which pieces have been there the longest, and why you love them. The more we can shift our perspectives on our own products and their relationships to ourselves, the more we build an understanding of this style of thinking. That, in turn, can impact community comprehension and encourage consumers to think about circularity on the greater scale.