Demystifying deadstock: origins and environmental benefits of our circular materials
In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable fashion, deadstock materials (sometimes called “surplus” or “leftovers”) have emerged as a genuine way of optimizing resources. By starting the creation process from the existing materials, designers contribute to the reduction of textile waste while drawing on unused fabrics to find creativity.
In this article, we embark on a journey to demystify deadstock, delving into their origins and uncovering the real environmental advantages they offer. By understanding the true nature of deadstock materials, we aim to raise awareness and dispel misconceptions, showcasing those surplus resources is a tangible sustainable solution.
Understanding deadstock materials
What are deadstock materials?
In the most common sense, ‘deadstock’ refers to unsold products or resources, that were never used by the original manufacturers. In other words, deadstocks are new materials, that just haven’t been used.
Therefore, our deadstock materials are new fabrics, leathers or yarns that have previously been ordered by luxury Maisons to the fabric manufacturers but have never been used for various reasons.
Deadstock materials, often cluttering the storerooms and archives of luxury brands, are excess fabrics and supplies that designers no longer need. These surpluses arise from overproduction, as brands often produce more materials than necessary to meet anticipated demand. Additionally, cancelled orders and changes in artistic direction can also contribute to the accumulation of deadstock.
Nona Source’s luxury deadstock materials
At Nona Source, we believe in the power of creating beauty from the existing. And to ensure high-quality creations, we strive to provide exceptional materials. To do so, our teams carefully select surplus fabrics, leathers & yarns from the top luxury Maisons. Previously, those exceptional materials were handpicked by the creative directors of those same Maisons. Sourcing from Nona Source is not only a guarantee of quality materials but also a way of drawing inspiration and creativity from the unique heritage of fabrics, leathers & yarns, as each piece tells a story of legacy and excellence.
Are surplus materials sustainable?
Sourcing in an eco-responsible way
You may wonder why using deadstock materials in your creation process? Whether you're an established brand, an emerging creative, or any other fashion and design professional, let's explore together the real contributions of deadstock to the environment.
Reducing textile waste
Utilizing deadstock fabrics helps in reducing textile waste by preventing them from being discarded. Rather than letting these unused sleeping beauties at the back of the warehouse or, worse, ending up in landfills, designers can choose to integrate them into new creations. This will extend their life cycles and reduce the fashion industry's ecological footprint.
Creating a long-term sustainable branding
Eco-conscious designers seek to offer durable pieces to their community, along with transparency regarding the materials used and production processes. Opting for deadstock materials allows brands and designers to incorporate a sustainable dimension into their identity. Using these resources not only reduces the environmental impact of garments production but also reinforces their commitment to sustainability.
Limitation of new fabric production
Prioritising surplus fabrics to produce clothing, shoes, accessories, or other leather goods means above all avoiding the need to generate new textile production. Therefore, this will reduce pressure on natural resources and minimize carbon emissions associated with textile production. By reusing existing materials, brands contribute to preserving fragile ecosystems while limiting their overall carbon footprint. This represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry.
Creative designers embracing deadstock fabrics & leathers
For 3 years, Nona Source allows a lot of designers to source exceptional materials and to draw inspiration from existing materials. Many of them have established themselves as pioneers of fashion circularity by creating from our high-end deadstock fabrics & leathers.
Stella Mc Cartney
Committed to a conscious luxury mission to create fashion that balances desirability and sustainability, Maison Stella McCartney is renowned for pushing boundaries, opening new opportunities, and driving change in the fashion industry. Nona Source is proud to collaborate with Stella McCartney, providing surplus materials for her stunning collections. Embracing a vision of fashion as a circular movement, Stella McCartney upholds the same eco-friendly values as Nona Source.
Kevin Germanier
Fashion designer Kevin Germanier builds a sustainable approach to fashion since his beginning. With Nona Source, the designer creates stunning pieces and garments made of deadstock fabrics. Through his commitment to sustainability, the designer showcases his craftsmanship through high-quality materials, making a more positive environmental impact.
Cecilie Bahnsen
By partnering with us, the designer redefines luxury through sustainable practices. Through her collections, she tackles creative challenges by experimenting with various techniques to manipulate our designer deadstock fabrics, reimagining them in the distinctive Cecilie Bahnsen manner. In her latest show for Paris fashion week 2024, the designer embraced a darker side of romance, from voluminous and distinctive creations to deep looks adorned of flowers details made from our Silk Organza.
As designer such as Stella Mc Cartney, Kevin Germanier, Cecilie Bahnsen and many others continue to innovate and create from existing resources, they contribute actively to a circular economy and inspire others to follow. Behind the infinite possibilities offered by deadstock materials lies a real community, driving positive change across the fashion industry. Today, leftovers have become a reliable source of materials, offering high-quality options without negative environmental impacts. Therefore, it signifies a concrete and significant stride toward fostering a more sustainable future for the fashion industry.