L’EXCEPTION IS COMMITTED TO SUSTAINABLE FASHION

Natural materials can have an impact on the environment due to the high levels of water consumed and treatment processes used. That’s why THE SMART CHOICE, represents products that respect strict standards – whether that be linen, cotton or wool. We only label items that are certified Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Responsible Wool Standard or European Flax & Masters of Linen.

Recycling old or deadstock fabric helps to reduce the manufacture of new fabrics (either natural or synthetic) and is an important part of the ethical and sustainable movement. No matter the fabric, a simple thread splicing technology offers disused fabrics a new life. In THE SMART CHOICE, category, recycled materials include cotton, cashmere, polyester (from plastic bottles) and wool. To be categorised as THE SMART CHOICE, each product must contain a minimum of 50% recycled fabric (unless cotton 20%).

Tencel® (eucalyptus pulp) and Monocel® (bamboo) are wood-based fibres created from FSC-certified forests. These two fabric alternatives are transformed using Lyocell – an organic process exempt from toxic solvents and a closed water cycle. These two ecological substitutes can be used as a primary or secondary alternative to traditional fabric. To be categorised as THE SMART CHOICE, each product must have at least 50% lyocell to qualify.

A sustainable choice for a fairer world, fair trade products selected as part of THE SMART CHOICE support the payment of higher prices to exporters, as well as improved social and environmental standards. Purchasing Fair Trade products ensures people in every part of the manufacturing chain are paid fairly.

Reflecting brands that have community welfare at the heart of their leitmotiv, THE SMART CHOICE reflects products that are crafted by members of society the most in need of financial and community support – encouraging apprenticeships and offering new avenues into work.

Charitable products are those created by charities to raise money for causes – to qualify for this category, a percentage of the price of the product must go directly to the organisation.

With the sale of each product, the brand guarantees to do a good deed – Faguo for example, plants a tree for every product purchased, whilst Twins for Peace distribute children’s shoes in developing countries for every pair bought.

The criteria for a product Made in France is organised into two elements: 1) the product must have been made in France, 2) +50% of the price of production must have been spent in France. For example, a dress must have been cut, constructed and crafted in France, accounting for at least 50% of the total cost of the product.

Products showcasing French ‘savoir-faire’ are French-made products crafted by heritage ateliers and historical design houses as part of the ‘Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant’ – a label issued by the French government noticing the brand’s ancestral techniques, traditional construction or high-quality craftsmanship. Brands as part of THE SMART CHOICE also consider locally-based manufacturing and traditional construction techniques that date back through the generations.