How to dress local

Posted on by Xpress Contributor
Photo courtesy of Bow & Arrow

By Asheville Grown

Sustainability is a beautiful thing — and so is sustainably crafted fashion.

When we wear upcycled clothing — meaning clothing that would otherwise be discarded, including unique vintage pieces or custom-crafted looks from leftover fabrics — we reduce waste and environmental impact. When we buy clothes from locally owned businesses, we support local resiliency by investing in companies that are tied to their communities and are more likely to build positive relationships with neighboring residents and businesses.

Asheville offers the opportunity to dress and accessorize head-to-toe, undergarment to outerwear, in locally crafted, one-of-a-kind clothing. As you shop around Asheville, look for Asheville Grown’s “Love Asheville, Go Local” posters and stickers to guide you to locally owned shops. You can also use this brief round-up of independent stores offering locally crafted wares to get you started.

Bow & Arrow

Locally made jeans and accessories crafted from 100 percent domestic cotton by owner Anna Toth. Manufactured in Wedge Studios, 129 Roberts St. Suite 3B. Info: bowandarrowapparel.etsy.com

Garage 34

Handmade gifts and crafts from local artists, in addition to upcycled clothes. 34 S. Lexington Ave. Info: facebook.com/g34avl

Hip Replacements

Locally made jewelry from Amber Hatchett Designs, lingerie from On the Inside and T-shirts from Holdfast Printworks. 72 N. Lexington Ave. Info: hipreplacementsclothing.com

On The Inside

Custom-made lingerie crafted by owner Elise Olson. Manufactured in Hatchery Studios, 1 Roberts St. Info: ontheinside.etsy.com

Minx

Locally made jewelry. 64 N. Lexington Ave. Info: minxasheville.com

Reciprocity

Buys and sells upcycled clothing. 732 Haywood Road. Info: reciprocityofwnc.com

Royal Peasantry

Clothing, locally manufactured from upcycled fabrics, as well as accessories and bags made from locally sourced scrap leather. 80 N. Lexington Ave. Info: royalpeasantry.com

Ship to Shore

Custom dresses for special occasions — including formal and wedding gowns. 85 State St., by appointment. Info: shiptoshoreshop.com

Spiritex

Locally designed and constructed casual wear and organic, sustainable fabrics. 14 Haywood St. Info: spiritex.net

Explore more local fashion — as well as works from local makers, crafters and artisans — at the Big Crafty Festival, downtown every July and December, or online at thebigcrafty.com.

For more local fashion and a directory of locally owned businesses, visit ashevillegrown.com.

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