Fashion

Embracing Sustainable Fashion: Simple Steps to Making a Big Impact

In a world driven by fast-paced trends and throwaway culture, the fashion industry’s environmental and ethical impact is increasingly under scrutiny. Sustainable fashion emerges as a powerful solution, promoting a harmonious blend of style and responsibility. It transcends mere clothing; it embodies a commitment to eco-friendly materials, ethical production processes, and fair labour practices. Mehak Walia in conversation with Tushita Mehta, the founder of Style Island and the VP of marketing for Social Entrepreneur Club, UBC.

Many of us are seeing sustainable fashion as a term everywhere, prominently being associated with Bollywood actresses like Alia Bhatt and Deepika Padukone who have been repeating their wedding ensembles to promote sustainability but, let’s be honest- Choosing sustainable fashion isn’t just a trend; it’s a transformative choice with widespread benefits. By opting for eco-friendly and ethical clothing, individuals contribute to a healthier planet and support communities worldwide. Founded by Tushita Mehta, Delhi-based Style Island is a sustainable clothing and lifestyle brand working towards introducing eco-ethically produced goods. As a VP of Marketing, at the Social Entrepreneurship Club, she was required to galvanize support for the adoption of sustainable products among global stakeholders, policymakers, and consumers. Additionally, she conducted rigorous research to understand consumers’ lifestyle needs in developed as well as developing nations.

Discussing fashion sustainability as a whole, the talented diva exclaimed, “Sustainable fashion refers to the production, consumption, and disposal of clothing in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. The fashion industry has long been associated with various negative impacts, such as resource depletion, pollution, and labour exploitation. Sustainable fashion aims to address these issues by promoting ethical and eco-friendly practices throughout the entire fashion supply chain. It’s perfectly ‘cool’ to prioritize sustainability and personal significance over fleeting fashion fads. Every piece of clothing has a story, and we can make a powerful statement by reimagining and reusing our treasures, giving them a new lease on life in the process. As sustainability becomes a more prominent concern globally, many fashion brands are incorporating these principles into their business models to contribute to a more sustainable and responsible industry.”

Her zeal and wish to carry out eco-ethical fabric construction on a large-scale production level led her to build Style Island, a brand that made changes like using 50% less water than other garment manufacturers. Their commitment to water conservation ensures that every garment is not just stylish but also contributes to a greener planet. Further, their commitment to superior quality means less wear and tear, ensuring your wardrobe staples last longer and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Each of the brand’s pieces is created to withstand trends, promoting longevity and reducing the impact of disposable fashion on the planet. From design to production, the brand prioritizes efficiency to minimize waste. The Style Island’s commitment to low-waste practices ensures that every garment tells a story of mindful creation.

Discussing the advantages of this shift to fashion sustainability, Tushita Mehta said, “Sustainable fashion aims to minimize the negative effects of clothing production on the environment by using eco-friendly materials, reducing pollution, and conserving resources. Sustainable fashion emphasizes fair wages, safe working conditions, and workers’ rights, addressing issues such as child labour and exploitation in the fashion industry. Embracing sustainable practices can lead to the long-term viability of the fashion industry by reducing reliance on finite resources and promoting more efficient and resilient supply chains. Sustainable fashion promotes the creation of high-quality, durable garments, encouraging a shift away from disposable, fast fashion items that contribute to a throwaway culture.”

Long-term economic advantages and the superior quality associated with sustainable garments underscore the wisdom of this shift. So, do you want to incorporate the magic and beauty of sustainable fashion into your life? Well, let’s get the process going. Here are 5 simple and convenient ways to help you get there.

5 Simple Ways to Incorporate Sustainable Fashion in Your Life:

1. Mindful Consumption:

In a society accustomed to fast fashion, adopting mindful consumption is key. Prioritize quality over quantity, investing in timeless pieces that stand the test of trends. A wardrobe built on thoughtful choices minimizes environmental impact and fosters a sustainable mind set.

2. Second-hand and Vintage Shopping:

Explore the charm of second-hand and vintage shopping. Not only does this practice reduce clothing waste, but it also unveils unique fashion treasures. Bollywood stars like Alia Bhatt and Deepika Padukone have set a trend by reusing their wedding sarees, emphasizing the beauty of treasured pieces with sentimental value.

3. Clothing Swaps:

Transform your social circle into a fashion haven by organizing or participating in clothing swap events. Swapping garments with friends or the community is not only an eco-friendly way to refresh your wardrobe but also an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals.

4. DIY and Upcycling:

Embrace your inner creativity by turning old clothes into new, personalized pieces. DIY projects and upcycling not only breathe new life into forgotten garments but also allow for self-expression and a sense of accomplishment.

5. Support Sustainable Brands:

Direct your purchasing power toward brands committed to sustainability and ethical practices. Bollywood stars endorsing sustainable fashion, like Priyanka Chopra and Kareena Kapoor Khan, amplify the importance of supporting brands that align with environmental and ethical values.

Raising awareness about sustainable fashion is crucial. Education empowers consumers to make informed choices, fostering a collective shift towards a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry. Share your knowledge and encourage discussions within your community to amplify the impact of sustainable choices. Incorporating sustainable fashion into our lives is not just a personal choice; it’s a collective responsibility. By making mindful decisions, embracing second-hand treasures, participating in clothing swaps, exploring DIY projects, and supporting ethical brands, each individual becomes a catalyst for positive change.

After all, Tushita believes that this trend is here to stay, “Consumer awareness regarding environmental and social issues is on the rise. As people become more informed about the impact of their choices, there is a growing demand for products that align with their values, including sustainable fashion. Younger generations, particularly Millennials and Generation Z, are more environmentally and socially conscious. The digital age and the influence of social media have enabled information about sustainable fashion practices to spread rapidly. Celebrities, influencers, and fashion bloggers often use their platforms to promote sustainable brands and practices, amplifying the message and encouraging widespread adoption. While the momentum of trends can be influenced by various factors, the multifaceted nature of sustainability and its alignment with evolving societal values suggest that sustainable fashion is likely to continue shaping the industry in 2024 and beyond.”

Bollywood stars and influencers, with their influence, highlight that sustainable fashion can be glamorous, setting the stage for a stylish and eco-conscious future for generations to come. This mindful shift, marked by intentionality and responsibility, ensures a sustainable fashion legacy for the evolving world of style, spanning beyond fleeting trends.

December 29, 2023

The Fashion Maestro: Exclusive Interview with Manish Malhotra On Bridal Trends

Hashtag Magazine brings you an exclusive interview with the legendary MANISH MALHOTRA, India’s most celebrated fashion designer. From redefining Bollywood glamour to shaping global couture, he opens up about his creative journey, inspirations, and the evolving world of fashion in 2025, offering rare insights into his iconic legacy. How are you making your signature bridal style more accessible to younger or more experimental brides while keeping that Manish Malhotra charm? You know, brides today are really fearless. They love their traditions, of course, but they also want to bring in their own personality, and I think that’s beautiful. For me, it’s about giving them the grandeur they’ve come to expect from a Manish Malhotra bridal look, but doing it in a way that feels fresh. That could mean innovative construction, modern silhouettes, or just a more effortless styling. The glamour will always be there, it’s just evolved. Sometimes it’s through a sharper corset, sometimes through a softer drape, but the magic is always alive. What are the top three bridal trends you see ruling weddings in 2025? So, first, I think it’s about layering. Whether it’s a signature head veil or even a cape, it allows a bride to really play with her look across different celebrations. It’s about showcasing unique embroidery or luxurious fabrics that can be styled in multiple ways. Then second, I’ve been loving crystal drapes, they bring in this beautiful sensuality and shimmer. It’s glamorous without trying too hard. And third, statement blouses – brides today are embracing unique necklines, dramatic sleeves, and corsetry to make the blouse the highlight. Which colours are defining the Manish Malhotra bridal palette this season? This season, I have been drawn to deep, decadent tones such as rich maroons, soft almond shades, old rose, and metallics that never go out

Fashion

Festive Glamour Jewellery in India

Vijay Soni leads Mahabir Danwar Jewellers with a vision that marries heritage with futuristic design. His sculptural, rhythm-infused pieces reflect a deep commitment to creativity and craftsmanship. 1.Statement ChokersFestive dressing calls for dramatic elegance, and nothing speaks louder than a regal choker. Pair handcrafted Jadau chokers with uncut Polki diamonds or Meenakari work for a deep neckline or classic sarees to add grandeur and heritage charm to both traditional and fusion attire. 2.Dangler Earrings Long, fluid danglers are the ultimate festive essential, effortlessly blending tradition with trend. Wear them with updos or minimal necklines to let the earrings shine perfect for temple ceremonies or evening celebrations. 3.Layered Necklaces A mix of textures, lengths, and styles defines this layered look. Style long gold necklaces, Polki strands, and colourful gemstone pieces with festive silks or cocktail ensembles to create a lush, curated aesthetic that stands out. 4.Diamond Bangles, Kadas & Bracelets Stack slim diamond bangles or kadas in white and rose gold for a modern, festive edge. Pair them with lehengas, shararas, or gowns, or wear a single chunky bracelet for bold, standalone sparkle. 5.Statement Rings From brilliant-cut diamonds to ornate Polki and Jadau designs, statement rings add instant drama. Let them shine by keeping other jewellery minimal ideal for cocktail evenings or traditional festivities. With over two decades of experience in jewellery export, Mr. Abhishek Kajaria founded Avama Jewellers in 2017. His brand stands on innovation and craftsmanship, bringing timeless glamour to fine jewellery in India. 1.Statement Earrings: Bold and Beautiful Nothing says festive like bold earrings. From oversized hoops to chandeliers, they instantly elevate your look. The pair above, crafted in 18kt white gold and diamonds, adds just the right touch of glamour. 2.Layered Necklaces: Effortless Elegance Layered necklaces bring versatility and grace to any traditional outfit. The 22kt gold

Fashion

Festive Jewellery Trends: What’s Sparkling This Season

As the festive season unfolds with colour and celebration, jewellery takes centre stage elevating every look with tradition, glamour, and individuality. From timeless Polki sets to bold contemporary silhouettes, top designers and brands are blending heritage with modern flair. Hashtag Magazine gathered insights from some of the industry’s finest to bring you the must-have trends that are set to dazzle through every celebration. Tyaani’s festive edit is all about reinventing classics for the modern woman who values both heritage and individuality equally. Curated by Karan Johar and Maheep Kapoor, here are the top five jewellery styles that promise to be the stars of the season. 1. Chandbalis Iconic and luminous, chandbalis shine beautifully in both ambient and natural light. Studded with dazzling uncut diamonds and typically worn solo without a necklace, these statement-sized earrings pair effortlessly with everything from Banarasi saris to anarkalis and even modern fusion looks. Their versatility makes them the perfect centrepiece for any festive look. 2. Iconic Beaded Chokers Whether delicately beaded or bold and eye-catching, these chokers frame the neck with regal elegance. Beadwork in soft pastels or rich jewel tones delivers a refined minimalism, perfect for pairing with deep or off-shoulder necklines. Tyaani’s beaded chokers, often adorned with natural emeralds or rubies, are timeless collectibles that can instantly elevate any ensemble. 3. Statement Necklace Forever Elegant, Always Relevant: When in doubt, reach for a classic. Tyaani’s statement necklaces, crafted with syndicate-quality uncut diamonds and accented with floral-inspired motifs and vibrant gemstones, redefine festive sophistication. The rich colour palette embodies celebration, while the clustered diamond settings provide a soft luminosity. Designed to complement everything from silk saris to Indo-Western ensembles, this is the piece that turns heads effortlessly. 4. Minimalist Pendant Necklace For those who prefer subtle elegance, this Polki pendant necklace is a quiet

Fashion

Met Gala 2025: Tailoring, Tradition & Trailblazers How Indian Stars Redefined the Red Carpet

The 2025 Met Gala dazzled with its theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, a celebration of precision tailoring, cultural identity, and the elegance of Black dandyism. From custom sherwanis to futuristic corsets, Hashtag Magazine shares some standout moments and key style takeaways from a night where tailoring met timelessness. Key Fashion Takeaways from the 2025 Met Gala Theme: “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” The 2025 Met Gala red carpet was a masterclass in tailored elegance, artistry, and personal expression. Celebrating Black dandyism and the power of tailoring, this year’s looks blended historical homage with modern flair, resulting in a parade of bold silhouettes, precision cuts, and inventive interpretations of classic menswear. Tailoring as Art Tailoring took centre stage, not just in the form of suits but as a vehicle for storytelling. Think asymmetrical lapels, reimagined tuxedos, and sculptural drapes. Both men and women leaned into sharply cut silhouettes with exaggerated shoulders, nipped waists, and dramatic fabric plays. Menswear Reimagined Menswear wasn’t just for men. Female celebrities, too, embraced power dressing through androgynous ensembles blazers, wide-leg trousers, and three-piece suits, often styled with pearls, hats, and luxe textures like velvet and silk. Hyper-Personalised Couture Custom-fitted, one-of-a-kind garments were the norm. Designers focused on craftsmanship and personal narrative every stitch, pleat, and detail tailored to the wearer’s identity and story. Ethical Fashion The red carpet dress code, aptly titled “Tailored For You,” encouraged guests to embrace sharp suiting, personalised silhouettes, and expressive detail. True to the spirit, Indian celebrities brought their A-game merging tradition, innovation, and individuality on one of the world’s most-watched fashion stages. Indian Celebrities Who Stole the Spotlight Shah Rukh KhanMaking history as the first Indian male actor to walk the Met Gala red carpet, SRK arrived in a regal black Sabyasachi sherwani updated with futuristic accents. A rhinestone studded ‘K’