Designer Tamara Davydova Chats Circular Design

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We are currently in full zero waste mode at The Wellness Feed, so when the chance to interview designer Tamara Davydova came up (who practices to zero waste initiatives through her circular fashion brand Minimalist) we jumped at the chance to learn more. Tamara designs and produces her line of minimalist separates all within a short distance from her New York based studio. This is just one of the ways that she minimizes her impact and she was happy to share others.

Instead of a standard Q&A or translating an interview into our words, we wanted to paint a more intimate portrait about how a designer practices circular fashion. So, we left it up to Tamara to share her story along with a behind the scenes sneak peek about how she creates Minimalist.

“Circularity starts with design. Designers play a crucial role in ensuring that circular fashion is possible– 80% of a garment’s environmental impact is based on choices designers make at the very beginning of the loop. When I design a garment, I design out waste and pollution from the start.

I think of every individual component as an ingredient–no different from reading a label on certified organic food. Each product page on our site features a drop-down with “our ingredients” where our customers can learn about the content, origin and certification of our materials. I use innovative fabrics made from organic and/or recycled content, and single- fiber materials whenever possible, to ensure the highest potential for recyclability. I uphold the same standards for trim as I do for the core materials.

I keep the design process sustainable. I recently partnered with Fabscrap in NYC to recycle our fabric swatches, leftover sample yardage and prototypes. The mills in which the fabrics are produced are certified to reduce environmental impact. I also choose to produce locally in NYC, to support local factories and garment district jobs mainly held by women.

Lastly, packaging is also a big consideration. Our garment bags are either compostable or
water-soluble and marine-safe. I spent months researching zero waste stickers made in the USA from 100% recycled post consumer paper, boxes + tissue paper are 100% recycled.

There are so many steps to achieve circularity in fashion. It’s not just materials, carbon
emissions, or recycling. It’s multifaceted and I look at all aspects and implement sustainable practices into each facet. I hope more brands join the movement.”