Why is it important we still celebrate LGBT history month? In the UK February is recognised as LGBT history month, a time to promote positive understanding of the history of gay rights. Like Pride month, it's not just a celebration of people and culture – its a protest against hate and marginalisation. It was introduced in response to Section 28 - a ban on the 'promotion of homosexuality' in schools which was introduced in 1988 by Margaret Thatcher's Conservative government. Section 28 meant that a big majority of queer history was created behind closed doors and the impact of this still remains. To draw visibility and...
What is transparency in sustainable fashion? In the fashion world, transparency is the practice of a brand being honest and clear about where their garments were made, who they were made by and how! Being transparent means openly sharing ALL of this info...not just the good bits. Supply chain transparency - what to look out for! At Ilk + Ernie transparency is something we hold close to our hearts. We understand the value of being clear about every little detail of how our business runs - so that you lovely lot can put your trust in us! There's plenty...
As we say goodbye to 2021 and enter the new year we're faced with the encouragement to focus on self-reflection. This means you're probably spending some time overthinking too. For some, this may be on achievement and hope. For others, it can come with a healthy dose of dread and disappointment. After close to two years of being dragged through a national pandemic, it's safe to say you likely feel it may have changed (or dare I say ruined) how you expected things to pan out; whether this be health, career or lifestyle. There is most definitely something disheartening about the...
The Christmas holidays are nearly upon us, and the Ilk + Ernie team are seeking out current transitional pieces that will deliver for the coming weeks of cosy weekends, festive parties and the office return. From statement buys to wardrobe staples, these pieces will take you through to Christmas and beyond. SO, let us direct you towards your next purchase in order to make sure it's a sustainable one! 5 effortless winter pieces to wear this Christmas The Blonde Suit - Ilk + Ernie Behold: a suit that can do it all. Taking a relaxed stance on the traditional suit, our Blonde suit is both for the evening and...
Black Friday and ethical consumerism With the arrival of November comes a thread of email advertisements, instagram posts and website banners promoting the 29th, for the nationwide occasion of black Friday. It can be difficult to see past the excitement of being offered huge discounts on already surprisingly cheap clothes; allowing you to shop garments at next to nothing... The problem with black Friday The issue that black Friday brings with it is the encouragement it gives consumers to shop trend based fast fashion pieces that they'll likely only wear once or twice. This feeds the overproduction crisis that contributes hugely to climate...
Real Talk: Volume. 3 - ‘Sustainable living’ We're SO excited to Welcome you back for volume three of our very first IGTV series 'Real Talk', showcasing everything from skincare to vulva casting... In last months edition we spoke with the magical beauty brand 'Upcricle', where they disclosed their seemingly limitless approach to skincare. For volume three we interviewed someone very close to our hearts, Izzy Manuel. Izzy discusses the invaluable topic of sustainable living and bravely delves into the connection between her heritage and own personal journey into a more sustainable relationship with the fashion world. Why sustainable fashion matters? Q: Hey Izzy, we're super excited to have...