INTERVIEW #16 ELIN MOHLANDER
Elin Mohlander is one of those who do it herself if she can’t find what she’s looking for. Why is there no brand on the market providing beautiful ethical dresses? She decided to start a brand that wouldn’t only provide consciously produced clothes, but also a design suitable for all women who loves fashion. Read more about RESIDUS here! In this interview Elin shares her perspective on her relationship with clothes and her closet.
Occupation:
Founder of clothing brans RESIDUS
What’s your relationship with clothes?
I’ve always liked shopping. Although my style has been a little special so I’ve always looked for unique things which means a lot of second hand from early age. When it comes to basics it’s always been with quality in mind.
How would you describe your style?
These days I would say it’s more toned down than before. I cherish basics since I wear them over and over again. But when I but unique things it’s always with a mindset that it will live in my wardrobe for years. Today I’m all for linen tops in solid colours. Black or blue denims. Maybe a colourful sweater. Black or beige shoes. Black or beige jacket. When it comes to formal wear my dresses are mostly colourful. It’s my way of standing out at parties since a lot of people usually wears black.
How would you describe your closet?
Really a mix of everything. I have a lot of Filippa K and J. Lindeberg since I use to work there. Residus is taking a bigger part in there of natural causes. Lot of shoes. Dresses in colourful materials.
What is a sustainable closet for you?
“Thing that’s been in your closet for years and you still love them.”
Thing that’s been in your closet for years and you still love them. You always find things to wear and see your closet as your own shop and don’t needs an update it all the time.
What do you think about the fashion industry?
I think it’s very dirty. It’s incredible how much you can read about it online now. It actually gives me a headache that even for me, who is working with sustainable fashion finds the industry crazy complex.
What do you believe needs to change?
“Only laws will make people completely go from word to action if we want real change.”
Laws on production, manufacturing and marketing. Without laws it will never change that’s what I’ve learned. Only laws will make people completely go from word to action if we want real change. Sustainability has a bigger following today of course but so has the fast fashion industry as well and it will never change until lawmakers makes the industry easier to understand and makes people to follow rules.
What can one do that seeks to create a more sustainable closet?
Always look for sustainable materials and alternatives. If you find it hard to understand think like this:
1. What material is this garment?
2. Where is it made?
3. How does the company promote themselves?
4. Is the company trustworthy in its promotion?
5. Is this a garment I would wear for a long time?
6. I feel comfortable buying this