Inspired By: Miranda Bennett

The root & soul of my collection is our use of plant dyes. I was drawn to them originally for their luminous color and fell hard for them once I developed a greater understanding of their environmental and health benefits. 

Some conventional dyes have been linked with cancer and fashion is the second-largest polluter of water globally. Natural dyes have a rich history, but there has been little preservation of their traditions here in the states, and even less development for commercial use. Embedding this practice into my line felt essential the more I learned about it.

We began our work in agriculture in 2017 growing a dye plant called Mexican Mint Marigold or Pericón (Tagetes Lucida). I first worked with the plant in Oaxaca, where it grows wild in the valleys. Both the flowers and the plant itself yield color, with results ranging from greens, to vibrant yellow to rich ochre and we use the whole, dry plant for dyeing. We also use natural dyes that are the byproduct of other industries, like sawdust from a local mill and avocado skins and pits from a local restaurant.

I am always guided by style, story, and comfort and I love to support other independent brands when I am not wearing my own work. I strive for pieces I know I will wear again and again, with a few fashion-forward items peppered in. I consider the fabric (and try to avoid petroleum-based materials altogether, like polyester) opting instead for biodegradable fabrics, which is also a guiding force for my collection. I love organic cotton and linen for daily wear, but I also enjoy silk and will even throw mine in the dryer for a sand-washed look, it makes it feel less precious.

Start where you are and focus on one thing at a time! It is so easy to get overwhelmed, but small changes add up and build off of one another. Look around your house and consider a few simple swaps you can start with - things like opting for bar soap instead of a plastic pump, cloth napkins instead of paper, a reusable water bottle instead of plastic, avoiding single-use plastic bags wherever possible, and take it from there. 

In terms of clothing, today, people purchase more often, then keep and wear those things for way less time. It really benefits no one, particularly the planet. The best thing you can do is to invest in well-made ethically created pieces that you will wear again and again, year after year. Not only does your cost per wear go down, but you will also help break the cycle of exploitation that fast fashion relies upon.  

Since we are a pajama company, we are curious about your sleep habits.

When it comes to PJ’s matching set or separates?
I love a set!

Slippers, Yes or no?
I live in a house with concrete and wood floors, so I love slippers! Preferably ones I can wash.

What’s always on your bedside table?
Facial spritzes and salves, a book I want to read but am likely not going to, a journal, earplugs, and an eye pillow.

Night owl or Early riser?
Night owl since birth!