Care for Denim Clothing

Random Acts of Kindness Day 2019

The impacts of fast fashion and how we can change to be kinder to the environment.

We've got 9 simple tips to help you be kinder to the environment.

1. Quality over quantity 

Cheap prices equal cheap materials. Save the environment and yourself some money by buying better quality garments. We’ve all experienced the disappointment of an item falling in holes a couple months after we’ve bought it. Fast fashion is one of the main culprits of environmental damage in the 21st century. The less we invest into fast fashion the quicker brands will improve their garment quality. 

2. Think before you throw
Whether it no longer fits, is stained or has a hole in it, think before you throw. Throwing away your unwanted clothes may not be as environmentally friendly as you first thought. Over £12 million worth of clothes are put in landfill each year in the UK alone. Before you throw, think ‘could this be fixed?’ ‘Could I sell it?’ ‘Can I donate it to a local charity?’ There are many ways clothes can be recycled before they reach the end of the line.

3. Care for your clothes 

Washing our clothes has a significant impact on the environment. 75% to 80% of the damage caused to our clothing comes from the effects of washing and drying. Washing your clothes according to the label can add to your clothes lifespan and save you money in the long run. When you wash your clothing make sure you consider what products you’re using – there are now many eco-friendly washing liquids to help you cut down on your impact on the world. 

4. Buy from sustainable brands 

Many small start-up brands are turning towards sustainability to break into the fashion industry. Admittedly, the offering form sustainable brands is still limited but the more we demand eco-fashion the more will be available. If you’re looking to shop with a sustainable eco-friendly brand, why not check out our website. All of our garments are made from end of line fabrics and upcycled items, and we also alter clothing. 

5. Bring your own bag

To reduce your plastic waste, ensure you bring your own shopping bag wherever you go. Although it may seem quick and easy to grab a plastic bag while you’re shopping, but research suggests that plastic bags release three times the greenhouse gas of reusable bags. If you want to be super eco-friendly why not buy recycled tote bags. Madia & Matilda stocks some amazing printed tote bags from British brand Graphyx which is a sustainable brand using vegetable oil based ink. 

6. Reduce your plastic use

Reducing the amount of plastic you use can have a massive, positive effect on the environment. Start today, by making easy substitutes like plastic bottles to reusable water bottles, plastic straws to paper or metal straws and reusable bags. Keep your take away tubs and Nutella jars, wash them out and use them to store bulk foods or leftovers. These simple swaps are easy to make and could help save the planet. 

7. Don’t be afraid to buy second hand or swap items

Second hand garments are not always worn out or dirty as the media would often have you believe. Second hand items can come from charity shops, websites like eBay and Facebook, or apps such as Depop or Shpock. More often than not, these clothes are hardly worn and are in very good condition. Alternatively, you could do a clothes swap organised through a local event or social media. By participating in a clothes swap you are able to get a feel of what the fabrics and styles are like before you buy. 

8. Buy British

Buying British is key to creating a sustainable shopping industry in the UK (obviously this can apply to any country you live in). Supporting local and British businesses is a great way to be kind to the world too. By buying British you are able to identify exactly where the product is produced and its components are sourced, which often leads to higher quality garments being produced. 

9. Alter and mend to get the most out of your wardrobe

A fallen hem or missing button shouldn’t mean your clothes need to be thrown away. Either learn some basic sewing skills to repair your own clothes or take them to a local tailor for a small fee. Mending or altering garments can increase their lifespan and save you money. If you buy from a clothes swap or second hand shop you can easily tailor them items to fit you and your style for little money.

Sincerely Madia & Matilda

Valentine's Day Gift Guide 2019

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide 2019

Valentine’s day is right around the corner. We’ve compiled a gift guide to help you get prepared for the big day.

1. OM Skincare

If your significant other is a fan of skincare and fragrance then we’ve got you covered.
This OM Beauty ‘Mindful Traveller’ skincare set is ideal for your valentine. Easy to travel with and refillable this makes the perfect eco gift for the love in your life.  When using the Pure Glow Cleanser, breathe deeply to release blockages in the flow of Chi, thereby restoring vital energy to skin and giving yourself a chance to relax. The Daily Radiance Moisturiser gives the best results when you gently tap as this stimulates and wakes up the skin, releasing blockages and restoring vital energy to skin.
Click here to buy.

2. Lola's Apothecary 

Lola's Apothecary Breath of Clarity Uplifting Body & Massage Oil is the perfect gift for Valentine’s day this year. Treat your loved one to the refreshingly soothing scent with Eucalyptus, Rosemary and Sweet Marjoram at its herbaceous core, uplifted by the joy of Peppermint and Lemon. All fragrances are composed entirely of the finest pure essential oils.
Click here to buy.

3. Laughter Print

If homeware and accessories are more suited, why not check out our Shop Unique brands. Decorate your home with your affection by hanging this Walt Disney print. Crafted from white cardstock paper and gold foiled lettering set inside a solid white wood frame.

Click here to buy.

4. Concrete Ring Holders

Treat the minimalist in your life to these contemporary concrete ring holders. Made from cast concrete and left in its organic state, they are perfect for adding a modern edge to any space. 

Click here to buy.

5. Vegan Leather Purse

Made from vegan leather, the ‘Lily’ purse is perfect for a valentine’s gift. Created in a variety of colours, pale grey, tan, gold & black, this purse is a classic addition to your hand bag.

Click here to buy.

Clothing Gifts

1. Alissa

Our exclusive Alissa skirt features button detail at the front. Styled with a bandeau for last minute getaways or a blouse for the autumn evenings, Alissa makes the perfect gift for your loved one this February.

Click here to buy.

2. Nicolette

The Nicolette crop top is a great gift, made from a lightweight cotton polyester blend, this this top is perfect for all year round wear. Styled with high-waist trousers for a casual daytime look or add heels in the evening, for an elegant yet comfortable style. 

Click here to buy.

3. Haroden

The Haroden dress makes the perfect outfit for Valentine’s day this year. This cute, flirty dress is ideal for any situation; wear it with boots and a jacket for a casual look or dress it up with a pair of heels and a necklace for a fun night out. This smock dress has a fun satin panel under the arms which gives it a unique look.

Click here to buy.

4. Julia

The Julia metallic sheer dress is a great option for an evening out, whether you’re with friends or your significant other this Valentine’s day. An effortless metallic party dress with a short sleeve, sheer top and lined skirt.

Click here to buy.

5. Jasmine

Try something a little different with our cream coloured Jasmine jumpsuit. Featuring floral frill detail around the waist, this modern classic looks great styled with a pair of dark heels, a nude clutch and a dark lip, for a evening look. 

Click here to buy.

Sincerely Madia & Matilda

Is Fashion Week Ever Sustainable?

Fashion week - Why Madia & Matilda is against fast fashion

What is slow fashion?

In recent years we have seen a wave of change wash over the fashion industry. Consumers and companies alike have become more aware of the effects of fast fashion on workers and our environment.

Slow fashion is how we approach and raise awareness to the way fashion is produced – taking the time to consider the processes and resources. The term Slow Fashion came about quite organically. It was coined by Kate Fletcher of the Centre for Sustainable Fashion. Slow fashion is necessary to save our environment as well as workforce welfare. In 2018, brands such as H&M reportedly burnt 12 tonnes of unsold garments despite launching their Garment Collecting programme – a global initiative to prevent customers’ unwanted items from going to landfill.

The slow fashion movement has been increasing exponentially in recent years as consumers demand higher sustainability and ethical standards.

Why we only design collections every 2 seasons

Here at Madia & Matilda, we pride ourselves on our sustainability and ethical ethos towards fashion. We only use fabrics that are end of roll, end of line or recycled from previous garments. Our items are designed and produced in house without the need for a factory or cheap labour. In order to keep our sustainable promise we only produce collections twice a year for spring/summer and autumn/winter. By producing biannually we are able to invest more time and money into our designs and quality, thus creating items that are ethically sound and adhere to our high standards.

Why we don’t participate in fashion week

Madia & Matilda consciously chooses not to participate in fashion week so as not to support the fast fashion trend. Many fashion weeks and catwalks feature garments that are produced quickly and cheaply to capture the most recent fashion trends. Not only does fashion week inspire fast fashion production but it also encourages consumers to buy into trend fads that only last a few months.

Charity fashion shows

Instead, at Madia & Matilda we dedicate our time and energy to producing eco-friendly garments that can form the basis of any wardrobe. Rather than partaking in mainstream fashion week catwalks, we only feature ourselves in charity catwalks. This year see our brand join the Durham University Charity Fashion Show - The UK’s largest student fundraiser and the biggest event in Durham’s social calendar. This year the fashion event is supporting the Environmental Justice Foundation, a charity who works at the forefront of global environmental politics to secure the rights of climate refugees and the future of our planet. If you want to attend the event you can find more information about the event here.

Madia & Matilda have also featured in many other charity fashion events including St Martins in the fields, Empire Casino London and Brighton Fashion Week.

Sincerely Madia & Matilda

National Pie Day - Our Recommendations

Happy National Pie Day!

We've made a list of our favourite pie places in Gloucestershire.

1. The Weighbridge Inn, Minchinhampton

Famous for their '2in1 Pie', The Weighbridge Inn is situated in the beautiful Cotswolds. If you're looking for a meal to remember, look no further than their '2in1 pie'. This dish has remained on the menu for over forty years and combines all the elements of your dish into one bowl.
Visit their website here.

2. The Stable, Cheltenham

If you're looking for a more modern take on the traditional pie, why not visit The Stable? Positioned in the centre of the spa town, and set over two stories of listed Cheltenham, this dining experience adds grandeur to your pie.
Visit their website here. 

3. Royal Oak, Burford

The Royal Oak is a harming country pub in Burford, Oxfordshire. Serving up delicious food as well as plentiful pies, this establishment is sure to hit the spot.
Visit their website here.

4. The Crown & Tuns, Deddington

Known locally as the 'pie pub', The Crown & Tuns is tucked away in the Cotswolds town of Deddington. Every dish on their menu is homemade, freshly baked to order and cooked with locally sourced ingredients.
Visit their website here.

5. The Kings Arms, Stow-on-the-Wold

Nestled away in the Cotswolds town of Stow-on-the-Wold, The Kings Arms is the epitome of charm and character. For a traditional pie and pub experience make sure to seek out this quirky eatery.
Visit their website here.

Sincerely Madia & Matilda

National Popcorn Day - Our Top TV Picks for 2019

Happy National Popcorn Day!

To celebrate national popcorn day we’ve compiled a list of TV and movies to look out for in 2019.

With 2018’s best TV and Film picks firmly behind us, it’s time to see what 2019 has in store for our screens this year. 

5 Movies coming to theatres soon 

1. Little Women 

The story of four sisters coming of age during the aftermath of the civil war. Directed by Greta Gerwig, this is the eighteenth adaptation of the original novel written by Louisa May Alcott. Featuring Meryl Streep, Emma Watson Timothee Chalamet, and Saorise Ronan, the film is set for screens near you in December 2019.
To find out more about this film click here.

2. Lion King – Life Action 

Directed by Jon Favreau, The Lion King live action remake features a star-studded cast - with Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, James earl Jones and Beyonce playing the role of some of the major characters. Look out for this Disney remake this July.

To find out more about this film click here.

3. Toy Story 4 

The third sequel to the original Toy Story movie i set for release in June 2019. Following your favourite toys, Woody and the gang are joined by new toy Forky and discover just how big the world can be for a toy.To find out more about this film click here.

4. The Goldfinch 

Join Theodore Decker as he starts a new life with a wealthy upper east side family after his mother is tragically killed in a bombing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

This film  is set to hit cinemas in October 2019.

To find out more about this film click here.

5. Rocketman 

Rocketman is a British musical drama film based on the life of Elton John. The film is directed by Dexter Fletcher and written by Lee Hall, and stars the likes of Taron Egerton and Jamie Bell and Richard Madden. The film follows John's early life as a student at the Royal Academy of Music, through to his successful music career.

The film premieres in May 2019.

To find out more about this film click here.

5 TV series making a comeback in 2019

1. The Crown – Season 3 

Based on an award-winning play, "The Audience", this royal drama showcases the life of Queen Elizabeth II from the 1940s to modern times. Featuring a fabulous cast of Claire Foy, Matt Smith, Olivia Coleman and Helena Bonham Carter - this show is in its third series and a must watch this year!

To find out more about this show click here.

2. Game of Thrones – Season 8
The eighth and final season of this fantasy drama is set to hit our screens this April. Unlike previous seasons, season 8 is made up of six episodes. If you've been obsessed with the last 7 seasons, you definitely don't want to miss this one!

To find out more about this show click here.

3. Peaky Blinders – Season 5 

Peaky Blinders enjoyed one of its most successful seasons last year and the new one promises to deliver. This period drama sees the return of all your favourite actors including Cillian Murphy, Tom Hardy, Sophie Rundle and Helen McCrory.

To find out more about this show click here.

4. Killing Eve – Season 2 

2018 saw the world go crazy for season 1 of Killing Eve. Jodie Comer and Sandra Oh have been boosted into the limelight with everyone trying to get a sneak peak or spoiler for season 2. Killing Eve is an eight-part adaptation of the Codename Villanelle novella series from English author Luke Jennings. If you loved season 1, season 2 will not disappoint - keep an eye out in April.

To find out more about this show click here.

5. Stranger Things – Season 3 

Top rated sci-fi drama, Stranger Things, is back and better than before. Bring back your favourite characters Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Joyce (Winona Ryder), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo) and Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin). The show is believed to drop in July 2019.

To find out more about this show click here.

Sincerely Madia & Matilda

Wardrobe Detox

New Year New Wardrobe

The New Year is the perfect time to detox your cluttered wardrobe. 

We’ve got 5 top tips to help you curate a more conscious closet. 

1. Categorise 

• Items you love and wear often
• Items you like but aren’t 100% about
• Items that no longer fit or you don’t like
• Damaged or unwearable

2. Do you really need that many of the same thing?

• Get rid of what is looking past its best
• Be decisive and only keep what you actually wear

3. How many times have you worn it in the last year?

• If the answer is less than 4 (and it’s not an occasion piece) then it’s time to part ways

4. Does it fit properly?

• Get rid of the clothes in your wardrobe that don’t fit and make you feel fabulous

5. Educate yourself

• Know where your clothes come from, where they are made, the materials used. Watch some documentaries about ‘fast fashion’, we recommend The True Cost on Netflix. Click here to watch.

Detoxing your wardrobe can be a daunting task but it’s completely worth it in the end. Take your time to look at each garment in your wardrobe before you categorise it, this way you can be certain you are doing the job properly instead of holding onto items you know you’ll never wear.

When decluttered your closet try and piece together outfits as you go so that you know all the items in your wardrobe go together. This will also make it easier in the mornings when you can’t decide what to wear.

Once you’ve finished the mammoth task of clearing up, you can begin to sort out the items you’re getting rid of. Make two piles – one for donation/selling and one for recycling made up of items that are no longer wearable.

Why not try selling some of your unwanted items on an app such as depop. Alternatively, you could always donate any unwanted clothing to local charities.

If you need help detoxing your wardrobe this year why not let us help with our stylist solutions. Ask in store, email or call us to find out more.

Sincerely Madia & Matilda