Wearing Organic Cruelty-Free Silk
“I had happily discovered ethically sourced silk recently and was able to create a look that doesn’t take too much space in the luggage and is p.e.r.f.e.c.t for hot weather.”
Natasha Taneka, NGO and author of Trusted Clothes guest blogs on the merits of packing light and wearing silk ( organic & cruelty- free, thank you), in hot climates. Pictured wearing our African Print Blouse in Singapore
It’s that time of year where the magical changes of the seasons have given rise to the cold bite of the dark winter. As Christmas approaches and we know that even after it, we are in for more weeks of bitter cold. So if you’re like me, you’re reminiscing about the trips taken during the year as well as dreaming of possible destinations to escape to for 2017! Reflecting on past vacations or events helps catalogue what were winning moments and highlight mistakes one should avoid. One of my most memorable winning moments was learning how to pack lightly but smartly. Sometimes in the past I packed super casual attire, and ended up having to buy a semi-casual outfit last minute or risk looking out of place at a key moment. To a avoid this, I realised I needed the perfect dress up or dress down top; silk was my answer. I had happily discovered ethically sourced silk recently and was able to create a look that doesn’t take too much space in the luggage but is perfect for the hot weather, while maintaining an effortlessly fashionable look.
When holidaying in Singapore this June, another great decision was not overbooking the time I spent there – rest during holidays, for me, is essential. I may have seen only some of this great city’s attractions, yes, but I revelled in every moment. One of the activities I most enjoyed was having afternoon tea at Raffles – a colonial style hotel built in 1887. The architecture gives a real feeling of colonial-era nostalgia and elegance, something I just can’t find in modern glass and steel architecture. The venue was the perfect place to catch up with old friends whilst indulging in the best delectable beautifully arranged treats on a tiered cosy at high tea!
What to wear to afternoon tea in the Tiffin Room at the famous Raffles hotel, I hear you ask? Taking into consideration its timeless class, unique history, and location in the heart of Singapore’s business and civic district, I went with a simple combo of white shorts (always fashionable in the tropics!), simple gold heels, and as the centre piece, a striking silk top. Vibrantly patterned in blue and white, this African Print Blouse from London is designed and made by Kitty Ferreira, and was a perfect material in embracing humid environments. The sophisticated, willowy cut perfectly balanced out my form-fitting shorts. This ethical fashion creation felt great to rock, both from a style and comfort point of view, but also gave me a sense of pride. Wearing it allowed me to share awareness of peace silk, and sustainability of fashion. Not many know that around 40 – 50,000 silk worms are boiled alive to make just one fast fashion silk shirt on the high street. The Kitty Ferreira method is to work with the only cruelty-free silk farm in the UK, which raises the worms, harvests the cocoons, and weaves the silk, all without endangering those industrious little creatures!
In addition, because of the nature of the dyeing process, all her pieces differ slightly, providing a sense of exclusivity and therefore ensuring I will not bump into anyone with the same exact top (Fashion faux-pas be gone!). When on holiday, especially when exploring exotic cosmopolitan cities, I like to dress smartly whilst packing light, and I feel the ‘corporate activist’ outfit and cosmopolitan destination are a definite killer combo. With the help of Kitty Ferreira’s outfits, I’ll be looking for a repeat in 2017!
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