VANCOUVER, BC | MARCH 2022

Jessica Redditt has always had a passion for clothes and dressing up. After going to fashion school and opening her first store in Ottawa when she was only 21 years old, the next logical step seemed to start her namesake brand, which she did four years ago in Vancouver. She also loves making statements with her art. Not only does she create practical and good-looking clothes, she does it with an ethical point of view by using sustainable materials and alternative practices. Because fashion is more than what the eye can see.

“ I have always seen fashion as wasteful and potentially harmful to the environment and to humans. When I was young, I was up-cycling old jewellery, and using vintage lace curtains to make clothes. I was into thrifting before it was cool! I think these ideas may have come from spending time with my grandparents and witnessing their reusing of everything.” The choice of materials is a key element in Jessica Redditt’s creative process. It is also what gives its unique appeal to each of her designs. “I love to find old fabrics that remind me of a certain era, a feeling. When it’s transformed into a piece of clothing, it melts the old days with the present. I also love to work with natural textiles and quality fabrics that feel good.”

Even though reusing fabrics could seem like a restrictive artistic choice, Redditt has developed multiple techniques through the years to keep her designs fresh and modern. One of her main tricks is to piece-dye the garments by hand in natural dyes made from some plants she cultivates herself. “ Colouring clothing/textiles can have a very big impact on the environment (because of the use of water, chemicals, etc.). Because I am committed to creating sustainable clothing, I started researching all the ways to create natural colours. Natural dyeing has been something I was interested in, and creating colours has been an artistic journey ! ”

With their organic feel, her creations bring a sense of simplicity and sophistication. In doing so, her refined designs can be worn by anyone. “ I would describe the brand as natural, elegant, and timeless. I want people to feel great when they wear these pieces. And they are transitional, meaning you can lounge at home in them or feel amazing going out in them. I want my clients to own pieces that are investments, pieces they can wear forever without going out of fashion.” Her garments may be timeless, but she always tries to bring novelty to her designs. Each new collection is a way for Redditt to explore new sensibilities and artistic possibilities, while keeping the same ethical point of view.

“ Right now, I’m working on some artist collaborations and I’m about to launch our Spring collection, « Gifts from the Sea ». As for my long-term goals, I want to keep things as sustainable and artisanal as possible: recycling/upcycling more, having a space where I can share my clothing for fitting and share my process with visitors, and bring more awareness to sustainable fashion.”

To know more about Jessica Redditt Design, find the artist on Facebook, Instagram or her official website.