Decorator Profile Below and right: Items from the POP collection
are grown using natural resources, no pesticides, or chemicals. The process of these fabrics is very well monitored and uses less water, electricity, and harmful processes than usual – thus having a much less negative impact on the planet.
Tracy says that one of her family’s favourite pieces in the range is the sports T shirt, because it feels incredibly soft, is flexible, comfortable and breathable. It also washes and dries really fast. “We all wear these”, she laughs. “I also like the modal T shirts and the scuba hoodie, and I often wear the T shirt dress,” she adds. Each item in the POP range bears the jelly fish logo and incorporates the word POP somewhere on the garment or bag. Given that Tracy is an experienced embroiderer, embroidery was her natural go-to when it came to branding the POP range. All the thread used is made from 100% recycled polyester and all garments are packaged and posted using eco-friendly options too.
Positive response
The response that Tracy has received so far for the brand has been really positive. “Customers are amazed at the texture and quality of the garments, they enjoy the variety of garments and colour choices we offer,” she says. “We’ve had quite a few return customers buying POP items as gifts for others which is a wonderful thing. A happy customer wants to share a good thing with others which we absolutely love… spreading the word.” Tracy’s other business Creative Embroiders, which sources garments for clients, also offers eco-friendly alternatives and more and more customers are interested in exploring that route. Tracy says it’s about creating an awareness of what’s available. Tracy has big plans for the brand. Ultimately, she would like to see the brand on sale in local independent clothing stores, particularly those that lean towards sustainability themselves. Tracy explains: “We’re aiming to get the range into independent costal boutique stores too, especially where activewear and scuba hoodies are prevalent. The range really has something to offer everyone of all ages.”
www.printwearandpromotion.co.uk
Like any entrepreneur Tracy is always looking for ways to grow and develop. She explains that as more people become aware of recycled and sustainable garments, she will expand upon the current POP range. “We try to offer something for everyone, but there’s always room for more,” she adds.
Sound advice
It can be quite daunting when starting a new clothing brand, but Tracy has some wise words of wisdom to pass on. “Work with people who have a similar vision as yourself who you can knock ideas around with. Start small but allow for growth. Not everyone will agree with you or your choices, don’t let that stop you but heed their words and advice, you may need it at some point. I’m always learning, you never know everything. I don’t think I’d do anything differently. I outsourced a company to create the POP website and got a lawyer to help me trademark the logo, that saved me a lot of time and allowed me to focus on the brand, designs and the stuff that I am good at.”
And finally, Tracy concludes: “Next time you need to purchase an item of clothing, choose sustainable and eco-friendly options… don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. I feel I am making small steps towards making a big difference.”
October 2021 | 57 |
POP stands for protecting our planet
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