We were lucky to catch up with Britta Cabanos recently and have shared our conversation below.
Britta , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
Producing Ethical Fashion Festival- in 2017 I started producing events around sustainable fashion, which lead to forming the annual Ethical Fashion Festival staring in 2020. It was to be an in person event, but then Covid hit and we turned it into a virtual event. Original plan was a weekend festival but when it moved to virtual event, it grew into a 5 day event, featuring live zoom sessions each day, featuring a guest speaker within the ethical and sustainable fashion space. Now we are working on growing this into a bi-coastal event for attendees to come and experience the world of artisan craft, tradition and ethically made apparel and lifestyle goods. We support a cause, giving a % of proceeds to the organization of choice each year. This upcoming year we will hold an event in Portland, OR as well as NYC, supporting the Patrick Chege Memorial Foundation, based in Kenya. The orphanage is founded by Siamanda Chege, also the founder of Beve Ravi, an artisan group of women.
Here is info about our EFF: Welcome to the Ethical Fashion Festival (EFF). This event is not just about fashion; it’s about creating a movement towards a more sustainable and ethical future. EFF is a celebration of creativity, conscious consumerism, and community empowerment. EFF is a for-profit organization that is dedicated to promoting ethical and sustainable practices in the fashion industry. We support artists, designers, and brands that prioritize social impact and environmental responsibility. Our goal is to rebuild the fashion industry for a sustainable future by empowering those who share our values. At EFF, you will experience an intimate community event where attendees and vendors come together to connect, share their craft, and promote ethical methods of design and development. You will have the opportunity to explore the personal stories behind the brands, discover their craft, and support ethical and social enterprise initiatives – both locally and in marginalized remote communities worldwide. What does it mean to be an “ethical” maker? It’s about more than just fashion; it’s about reducing harm to people and the planet. Ethical fashion encompasses garment design, production, and distribution practices that prioritize fairness, transparency, and sustainability throughout the supply chain. By supporting EFF, you are supporting ethical makers, investing in quality craftsmanship and a better future for everyone involved.
“We are proud to mention that a percentage of our proceeds goes to our chosen non-profit organization. It feels great to know that our actions are making a positive impact in the world.”
www.ethicalfashionfestival.com
Here is some info about Bebe Ravi: OUR MISSION IS TO PROVIDE JOBS AND JOB TRAINING WITHIN THE APPAREL AND HOME INDUSTRIES. CURRENTLY BEBE RAVI EMPLOYS 50-100 WOMEN IN NAKURU, KENYA – AN AREA WITH UNEMPLOYMENT RATES AS HIGH AS 40%. MANY OF THE WOMEN HAVE BEEN WIDOWED BY THE AIDS EPIDEMIC, THUS BECOMING THE SOLE SOURCE OF INCOME FOR THEIR FAMILIES. BY GIVING THEM ACCESS TO REVENUE, NOT ONLY ARE THE LIVES OF THEIR CHILDREN SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVED, BUT THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY IS PROPELLED FORWARD. OUR COMPANY PAYS ABOVE AVERAGE WAGE TO ITS WORKERS AND PROVIDES THEM WITH FREE MEALS
Here is info about the orphanage: HEGE VILLAGE
CHEGE VILLAGE IS AN EXTENDED FOSTER CARE IN KENYA WHICH PROVIDES HOUSING, EDUCATION, CLOTHING, FOOD, AND THE OPPORTUNITY FOR SUCCESS TO ORPHANED CHILDREN.
ALL OF OUR CHILDREN CURRENTLY RESIDE AT PRIVATE SCHOOL ACADEMIES THAT PROVIDE A SAFE, STABLE, AND NURTURING COMMUNITY.
WE ARE SO PROUD TO SEE THESE CHILDREN EXCEL IN THEIR STUDIES AND ENJOY A CHILDHOOD WITH A REAL PATH TO A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE.
IF YOU WISH TO HELP PLEASE GO TO OUR DONATION PAGE AND HELP TO INVEST IN THE FUTURE OF OUR CHILDREN. WE WELCOME AND ARE GRATEFUL FOR ANY DONATION.
Britta , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Here, I share the story of my design journey.
My fashion journey started when I was just 15 years old, growing up in a small town in Minnesota. It was then that I first heard about the Fashion Institute of Technology exchange program at North Dakota State University. My mom is a crafter, and I grew up sewing and crafting alongside her. I didn’t know designing clothes was a career option- but once I learned about it, from that moment on, getting into FIT and living in New York City became my dream for the future. I arrived at my FIT interview, having flown alone and taken the subway for the first time. I was a small-town girl, nervous and sweaty, with my heavy black portfolio and a bag of taffeta and velvet dresses in one hand. FIT was my entry into fashion and launched my now 30-year career in the apparel design industry. I stepped off the subway into the city and never looked back.
Navigating the Fashion Industry: The industry is an ever-evolving landscape marked by fierce competition, tight deadlines, and unpredictable trends. For many, it can be a daunting and overwhelming environment, testing one’s resolve and pushing them to evolve personally and professionally. As someone who has spent over 30 years in the fashion industry, I’ve encountered my fair share of challenges, from navigating the fast-paced environment of New York City’s apparel industry to launching my swimwear collection and establishing my own consulting studio. However, I’ve become stronger and more passionate about the industry through resilience, hard work, and a commitment to my values. One of the biggest challenges I faced early on in my career was adapting to the competitive and fast-paced environment of New York City’s apparel industry. As a designer for renowned brands such as Donna Karan, Danskin, and Tommy Hilfiger, I was constantly pressured to stay ahead of the latest trends while meeting tight deadlines. To overcome this challenge, I honed my time management skills, adapted quickly to changing demands, and sought guidance from mentors who provided invaluable support and advice. Another defining moment in my career came when I launched my swimwear collection in 2000. As a first-time entrepreneur, I faced uncertainties and doubts about my ability to succeed in a fiercely competitive market.
However, through determination and a strong belief in my vision, I secured partnerships with major retailers such as Victoria’s Secret and Canyon Beachwear, validating my efforts and bolstering my confidence as a businesswoman. Relocating to Portland, Oregon, presented another set of challenges, including adapting to a new work culture and establishing myself in a different country region. Initially feeling out of my comfort zone, I embraced the opportunity to broaden my professional horizons and immerse myself in a new community. Through persistence and a willingness to learn, I successfully transitioned into my role as Brand Manager for Nike Swim, further expanding my expertise in the industry. In 2012, I co-founded Creative Capital Design, a consulting studio specializing in apparel design for small to midsize companies in the athletic and outdoor apparel markets. As a design consultant, I provide comprehensive solutions tailored to each client’s needs, addressing design needs and goals, product development challenges, market positioning, and sustainable practices. I pride myself on offering strategic guidance beyond aesthetics, and my commitment to ethical fashion and fostering a supportive community sets me apart.
In 2017, I founded Inside Fashion Design (IFD) to promote a supportive community within the apparel industry. IFD is an online publication that shares authentic stories of individuals shaping the industry, educating designers and fashion industry pros, and focusing on ethical and conscious design.
Additionally, I established IFD Connect, an online community platform offering resources, connections & support for industry professionals. Through these experiences, I’ve learned that the fashion industry is not just about aesthetics and trends but about making a meaningful impact while staying true to one’s values. I’m passionate about mentoring emerging talent and advocating for ethical practices in the fashion industry, and I want to empower individuals and brands to do the same.
The fashion industry is a challenging but rewarding landscape that requires resilience, hard work, and a commitment to one’s values. While navigating this industry is never easy, embracing challenges as growth opportunities and seeking guidance and support from mentors and like-minded individuals is essential. With determination and a willingness to learn, anyone can succeed in this dynamic and exciting field.
The fashion industry is dynamic and ever-evolving, marked by fierce competition, tight deadlines, and unpredictable trends. Despite the challenges of this industry, I’ve learned that it’s possible to emerge more robust and passionate than ever before. Through resilience, hard work, and a commitment to my values, I’ve navigated the complexities of this industry and established a successful career as a designer, consultant & mentor. By embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, seeking guidance and support from mentors and like-minded individuals, and staying true to my vision, I’ve made a meaningful impact in the industry while empowering others to do the same. Whether you’re just starting out in the fashion industry or a seasoned professional, I hope my journey can inspire you to pursue your passions, overcome obstacles, and positively impact the fashion world.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My creative journey currently is to focus on Inside Fashion Design, taking my 30 years of experience and sharing that with others to guide them in their personal and professional journeys.
IFD’s mission is to equip aspiring fashion designers and industry professionals with world-class education, informative content, and community connections, empowering them to create a positive social impact in their work and the world.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
We live in a world dominated by consumerism, but we have the opportunity to appreciate craftsmanship, tradition, and the creators behind the products we buy. By adopting a mindful approach to consumption, we can make informed choices and honor the effort that goes into crafting each product. Every purchase we make supports livelihoods, families, and communities, making a positive impact on the world.
It is easy to get caught up in the convenience of modern retail, but we can choose to pause, reflect, and make conscious decisions. By doing so, we can reduce our ecological footprint and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future. We can embrace the ethos of mindful consumption and redefine our relationship with consumption, creating a more conscious way of living.
I invite others on this journey of conscientious design & consumption and inspire others to join in this effort. Together, we can make a meaningful change and positively impact the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.insidefashiondesign.com
- Instagram: insidefashiondesign
- Facebook: @brittacabanos
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/inside-fashion-design
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvaUT6-GUYP-8AOCEPBHfQA
- Other: www.insider.insidefashiondesign.com (our community platform) www.consciousfashiondesignacademy.com (educational platform launching Feb 24) https://www.behance.net/bcabanos
Image Credits
Andrea Lonas Photography