NAGHEDI: FASHION’S NEW GREEN FRONTIER WITH WASTE NOT RECYCLE PROGRAM
By: Prachi Khatri
Sustainability became an industry buzzword due to the recent exposure and awareness of how damaging the fashion industry is to the environment. Research has shown 73% of textiles are discarded without being recycled, ending up in landfills. The fashion industry produces a whopping 97 million tons of waste annually, of which 18 million was leftover textiles. Regardless, we know this won’t stop companies from producing fashion, nor will it stop consumers from buying. This reality has challenged brands to leverage their influence to be better.
New York-based handbag brand NAGHEDI has made a sustainable move combining fashion with environmental innovation. NAGHEDI, known for its chic, stylish and long-lasting designs has announced a Waste Not recycling initiative.
Credit: NAGHEDI website
As a part of the initiative's Reclaim and Recreate program, the brand allows customers to sell their used NAGHEDI bags and buy new ones at a 30 percent discount. NAGHEDI’s Waste Not program is a big first step to bring about much-needed change by reducing waste in the fashion industry. This new venture by NAGHEDI is a bold move to rewrite the future of the fashion landscape.
“Pre-loved bags are sent to artisans where they are carefully deconstructed. The Neoprene strands are then cleaned, some are re-dyed, and then finally re-woven into a limited edition, one-of-a-kind piece." - NAGHEDI website.
NAGHEDI launched its handbag line in 2016 after working with accessories for nearly 20 years. Founded by Sarah Asvadi, NAGHEDI, they launched all handbags in neoprene material that does not go out of style sitting in your closet. Asvadi was inspired to create a brand,that was timeless, sleek and evergreen after noticing how quickly the handbag fashion goes out of style.
The bags are intended to be well-loved and used season after season. Their Waste Not program helps the company work in partnership with their customers and community to remain true to their ethos.
The textile industry contributes to 20% of global wastewater and 10% of carbon emissions, even more than what is produced by the aviation industry. These startling facts are not just numbers but a wake-up call to listen to our environment. As consumers become aware of these figures and face environmental consequences, the demand for sustainable brands has skyrocketed more than ever before.
All handbags in NAGHEDI’s collection are crafted with Neoprene material, known for flexibility, durability and resistance to oil, water and change in temperature. NAGHEDI’s Waste Not initiative encourages customers to bring worn-out Neoprene handbags from the brand and transform them into a brand new collection.
The limited edition Waste Not collection features five different styles to choose from with two color options in an affordable range from $100 to $350. Unique designs and everlasting material make Neoprene totes from the Waste Not collection a traveler's favorite. Customers can shop the collection on the NAGHEDI website at neghedinyc.com.
Credit: NAGHEDI website
Thanks to programs like Waste Not, not only are consumers directly involved in the recycling process at Naghedi, but it also helps foster a sense of responsibility among buyers. The program's success can inspire others in the fashion industry to think creatively and help bring the push towards a circular economy.
As we look forward, the fashion industry must evolve to reduce waste and use resources sustainably. This means thinking beyond the default production and consumption model and embracing a system where products are designed for longevity, repairability, and ultimately, reuse. Style does not need to come at cost to the planet.
Sustainable fashion is not just about being kind to planet Earth but also being kind to ourselves! Choosing a wardrobe where each piece is curated with care. Let’s say goodbye to fast fashion bags and adapt to the everlasting charm of NAGHEDI Waste Not bags.
Let's look fabulous while being responsible!