Nicole Bridger is a hot, young Canadian designer creating sumptuous eco-clothing for women who crave casually elegant clothes, but don’t want to comprise the earth.
Her clothing blends westcoast comfort with sustainable fabrics like bamboo, organic cotton, hemp and silk. Bridger, a graduate from Ryerson University, interned with Vivienne Westwood and later created the super popular Oqoqo line for Lululemon before creating her own self-titled line - Nicole Bridger. Did we mention she is only 27?
We caught up with one of Canada’s hottest eco-fashion designers to ask a few questions about the Nicole Bridger line and what’s hot for summer.
What influence does living in western Canada have on your design?
It is very casual here, so I create things that are casual but still sophisticated, comfortable but interesting.
What makes your clothes an eco-friendly, socially conscious line?
Mostly the fabrics we use - bamboo, organic cotton, hemp, silk, and wool, but the fabrics need to feel soft and high end. Also everything is made locally in Vancouver.
How did you start working on a green line?
I started using natural fabrics in university; it was a good fit, as I have always been a conscientious person. Then I created Oqoqo which is an eco casual line for Lululemon after I graduated from university. After that, I created my own line.
Is it more work for the designer to create sustainable fashion?
I don’t think so. It has become way easier to source the fabrics in just the past 5 years. All design has its restraints; its just working with them that requires you to be more creative.
What were your influences that lead you to sustainable fashion?
I’m a compassionate person. I grew up recycling and its just common sense that we need to take care of our planet, so why would I create a company that was anything but sustainable or at least moving in the right direction?
How did working at Westwood & Luluemon influence your design?
They were completely different. At Westwood I learned about creativity, the art of draping fabric and that it is possible to create more than just clothing, that it is possible to create a positive change on the planet. At Lululemon I learned how to create a line from scratch, how to make money doing it, and about marketing and corporate culture.
What changes have you seen in eco-fashion over the last ten years?
So many new lines are coming in and a lot of existing lines are using sustainable fabrics. There is a huge demand on the fabric mills, so we are seeing some great new fabrics. The customer is also much more aware and educated.
Do women compromise on their style when they choose eco fashion?
Not any more. So many labels are eco and don't look it. My line is eco because those are the morals that I have. The design of the clothing comes first; the eco is the added bonus.
What do the "I Am Love" labels mean?
It's a little reminder to love yourself, to say nice things to yourself in the morning when you're getting dressed and then to be nicer to people around you. It’s helping spread love.
What's in style for summer?
I think trends don’t discriminate between eco and regular labels. My favourite summer styles are the slouchy linen pant and high waisted skirts.
Visit: www.nicolebridger.com
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