Slopeslow, Building a Beautiful Relationship With Clothing.
In an era where fast fashion dominates and consumers are constantly bombarded with fleeting trends, finding a brand that values craftsmanship and sustainability can feel like a breath of fresh air. Japanese knitwear brand Slopeslow, founded by a husband-and-wife duo under the alias BandO (the wife has a blood type B, and the husband type O, hence BandO), stands out as a beacon of dedication and passion in the clothing industry. With their extensive background in fashion, the duo infuses every piece with a commitment to quality and creativity, offering a unique perspective that challenges the norms of disposable fashion. The husband, O, handles most textile construction and curation, while the wife, B, focuses on design and provides detailed write-ups on each new collection. Together, they weave their respective backgrounds into fostering products that are beautiful and built to last.
© Slopeslow
In the competitive Japanese clothing industry, Slopeslow exfoliates itself through the founders' expressive love for the clothing they produce. Offering a range of hand-spun and custom-made textile knits, Slopeslow's products are a testament to their dedication to quality and creativity. Each season, the brand’s website features detailed write-ups on making its products and the thought process behind its designs. These 'product notes' provide transparency and invite customers to join the brand's journey, fostering a connection beyond a simple buyer-seller relationship.
© Slopeslow
In the Yak/Shetland Hand-Knitting Lopi sweater section of their website, B describes O as an ‘idol-director’ for making her come up with multiple pattern designs for the sweater, humorously sharing how the theme song of “Tuesday Suspense” rang in her head while constructing the knit. This personable write-up is arguably as important as the clothing itself, showcasing that Slopeslow is more than just a brand; it feels like buying from a friend. Their approach is akin to a 'post-game interview' for each collection, where they candidly discuss the trials, errors, and triumphs that culminate in the final product. This starkly contrasts with big fashion houses and their almost deified creative directors, whose designs are so grandiose that they seem unattainable. The lack of transparency from big-name brands' often increases the already steep learning curve of how clothes are made, while Slopeslow diminishes it, inviting anyone to join their journey.
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B's write-up system is ingenious, and prominent fashion houses and creatives could learn a thing or two from the knitwear brand. On a larger scale, the fashion industry, as a whole, could benefit from embracing a philosophy that values sustainability, education, and mindful consumption. Instead of perpetuating a cycle of disposable fashion, brands can promote longevity and awareness, encouraging consumers to appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each piece. This change in philosophy could lead to a more conscious and responsible fashion culture, subsequently weeding out brands that capitalize and rely on micro-trends to hit their quarterly marks.
© Slopeslow
Slopeslow represents a refreshing and necessary shift in the fashion industry. Their dedication to quality, transparency, and sustainability sets a valuable example, heightening consumers' consciousness and providing the steps to get there. By championing these values, Slopeslow not only promotes a more ethical and sustainable approach to fashion but also inspires other brands to follow suit. As more consumers and brands embrace this mindset, we can look forward to a future where fashion is about responsibility and respect for craftsmanship. Slopeslow's journey serves as a reminder that genuine quality and passion in fashion are timeless and worth cherishing.
© Slopeslow
