During the warm months of the year, staying cool and comfortable is of the utmost importance. Of course, saying this is often simpler than putting it into practice. While synthetic materials are easy to find, their fits may vary, and they typically fail when it comes to keeping you cool. On the other hand, certain natural fabrics like linen may fit well and look nice, but until they’ve softened some, you may end up feeling scratchy all day long. Instead of struggling with these options, my personal preference is to turn to a fabric that’s affordable, relatively easy to acquire, attractive (when the sizing and cut are right), and best of all, breathable. That is, cotton. And some of my new favorite pieces of cotton clothing come from one place: Fair Indigo.
This independently owned business started with a strong mission: to make a tangible difference in the apparel industry. Instead of short-lived, poorly constructed fast fashion, the founders wanted to make clothing as ethical and sustainable as it was long-lasting. And, in the years since the company’s conception, they’ve built a sizable catalogue of high-quality offerings. From dresses to shirts to pants, Fair Indigo’s women’s products come in a respectable array of colors, styles and sizes to suit the preferences of a range of customers.
Personally, when it comes to hot days, I’m often as inclined toward wearing a relaxed dress as I am a tank top and shorts. And Fair Indigo doesn’t disappoint. Its nine (at present) dresses are a mix of fitted and loose, warm and cool, ensuring there’s something for every climate. And of these offerings, my immediate favorite was the Women’s Organic Minimalist French Terry Dress. Available only in black (which is no hardship for me), this dress is crafted with a raw edge finish at the neck, sleeves and hem for a chic, carefully informal appearance ideal for both work and play. The 97% cotton fabric is both thick and breathable, making me confident in its longevity while also keeping me comfortable in the California sun. And, best of all, it’s machine washable, ensuring I can wear it without fear of any special care requirements.
Now, you may be wondering: What exactly is it about the makeup of these pieces that makes them so unique? At Fair Indigo, it all starts with the cotton. The company uses only Pima cotton, an “extra long staple” cotton, in its clothes, ensuring that its pieces last longer, resist shrinkage, and more. This material comes from Fair Indigo’s primary production partner—two Peruvian family farms owned and managed by a couple and their son. The Pima cotton is grown, picked and turned into garments on-site, processes completed by the highly skilled and fairly paid team of farmers, artisans and operators the family employs.
Fair Indigo also spares no time and expense when it comes to reducing its environmental footprint. Unnecessary elements, such as tags, are never added to its pieces, and up-to-date technology helps ensure its scrap waste is as minimal as possible. Plus, its biodegradable packaging keeps garments safe and secure in transit while also breaking down easily, reducing landfill contributions.
In short, through fashionable designs, ethical business practices and top-notch materials, Fair Indigo’s clothes offer long-lasting wearability perfect for any season. The products are substantial without being constricting or trapping heat, and the thorough production processes ensure each piece of clothing arrives soft and ready to wear. With prices ranging from $60 to $90, the company’s dresses are a bit of a splurge, but their durability and all-year wear make them more than worthwhile. So give your wardrobe the eco-friendly boost it’s been waiting for, and visit Fair Indigo’s website HERE to find your new favorite pieces today.
