But the founder of Fair Trade fashion website Bobelle is quick to point out that Fair Trade doesn’t mean frumpy nor does it mean expensive. “I saw there was a gap in the market for high-quality goods that were still realistically affordable,” she says. “I’m trying to show that Fair Trade isn’t just ill-fitting cotton. We’ve got an event in London coming up that’s showing you can get high-quality, uniquely designed fashion accessories for work. It’s Fair Trade for the business woman. We’ll have organically grown cotton, fitted shirts and suits, hand-made shoes, handbags and we won’t be charging £600 each for them.” Watt-Smith funded the venture with her own cash, initially spending £1,500 to build the website and buy the first lot of stock. She only sells online and works from home to keep costs down. It also helps that she has close links with her suppliers as that means she rarely has to buy in bulk. Watt-Smith adds: “Two of my suppliers are in Oxford, as am I. I can just go along and pick up the items myself, saving on postage and carriage.” She’s convinced the market for Fair Trade and environmentally friendly clothing and accessories will continue to grow. "It’s becoming more and more apparent that the pesticides used for regular cotton are harming so many peple. From a conscience point of view, we have to change the ways in whch we purchase," she argues. “I also think that the shopper is getting bored now and they’re looking elsewhere for designers that are just a little bit different from the High Street." Picture source
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.