FASHION CRUSH: KALITA
London-based Kalita Al Swaidi created one of the most elegant and versatile fashion hybrids. We know this word does no justice to the minimal and flawless design, but there are some very good reasons we picked it.
These pieces are a perfect resort wear example, but you’d see yourself walking down the aisle on a summer wedding with one of the white long dresses. At the same time, it provides impeccable 100% silk briefs made by wastage during production – they never waste a paper tag or a label. From textured cotton maxi dresses to simple silk slips, KALITA is a brand to invest in. Careful draping, added fabric to subtly cover the back of the arms, and bias cutting are all used to enhance and flatter the female silhouette. Worn by the likes of Kate Moss, Kylie Jenner, Jameela Jamil and Julia Roberts, in just a few years the fashion line blew up. A London-born, Texan-Iraqi, Kalita started her label in 2015, and is now an established iconic brand in the sustainable circuit (and not only). Made for the “world-traveling woman in mind”, these timeless pieces are made to last. Huge fans of Livia Firth’s 30 Wear Challenge, they encourage people to consider a ‘cost per wear’ when they buy any item – investing in garments that will last a lifetime instead of a season.
Clemence light blue silk maxi dress, £785.00 on Harvey Nichols
Zahara one-shoulder cotton maxi dress, £620.00 on Harvey Nichols
Brigitte blue silk-habotai maxi dress, £660.00 on Harvey Nichols
The minimal brand uses AZO free dyes which are low-impact dyes that have higher absorption rates, resulting in the minimization of grey water run-off and avoiding the pollution of natural waterways or local eco-systems. Monitoring directly the productions is also a key factor: each piece is made in small factories where KALITA knows the directors and the staff intimately. At the same time, they believe that having a personal connection with them is quintessential. In fact, they visit the factories quarterly and sit and eat lunch with those who work with the brand. Not something that often happens – let’s say at least not often enough – in the fashion system. KALITA has factories in both Bali and India and invests time into researching to source the most ecologically sound fabrics. They choose the most ecological silks they can buy: often these are more expensive, but feel the expense is justified to the minimise the impact of the planet. Investment pieces are not only coats and sweaters, and while daydreaming about exotic beaches, we madly fell in love.
Disclaimer: The people and models in the images featured are not associated with The Vendeur and do not endorse it or the products shown. This post may contain affiliate links. Prices correct at time of publishing.
