What began in 2018 as a dream to make Earth-friendly clothing for all body types became a reality during the pandemic of 2020. Akala is a sustainable fashion brand by founder Ashley Klein. The clothing line is made in the USA, focused on fair trade work, made with quality, and inclusive for a wide customer base.
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The result is a debut collection that includes The Wrap Top, The Jumpsuit, The Everyday Pant, The Reversible Neckline Sweater and The Sweater Dress. Each piece in the capsule collection was produced with the customer and the planet in mind. Fabrics are constructed from 98% plant-based fibers, and Akala never uses animal products in its garments.
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Tencel™ Lyocell is used in some products and is created from wood pulp sourced from sustainably managed forests. The process of making Tencel™ Lyocell is closed-loop, relying on recycled water and the reuse of solvents. Another material, Cupro, is also made on a closed-loop system from cotton waste that is naturally biodegradable. Linen, which is sourced from flax plants, is also included in some of the selections.
All clothing is manufactured in Los Angeles by skilled sewers, in a factory that guarantees fair treatment and higher than minimum-wage pay for workers. The company has created a circular system with limited waste by donating all scrap materials. Akala’s focus on high-quality clothing stands in contrast to the consumptive and wasteful fast-fashion world and highlights the goal of creating clothing that hangs around for a long time.
All purchases are packaged sustainably, with a reliance on paper, not plastic or other petroleum-based products. Additionally, Akala gives back by partnering with 1% for the Planet, where 1% of all profits are invested in environmental causes.
Along with a focus on sourcing natural materials and providing quality products and living-wage jobs, the brand’s goal is to design clothing that flatters a variety of body shapes. With this in mind, Akala offers extended sizing options.
Images via Akala