Boutique invests in impact

A Toowoomba boutique is now a shareholder for a successful fashion brand known for its ethical commitments.

BIG IMPACT: Ivy Designer Collections director Anna Sillett with Outland denim jeans. Picture: Nev Madsen

A Toowoomba boutique is now a part shareholder in a successful fashion brand that has gained worldwide attention for its commitment to sustainability and combating slave labour.

Ever since the Duchess of Sussex arrived on Aussie soil wearing Outland Denim jeans the brand has continued to make a global impact.

Now as part of a new equity crowd-funding initiative, Toowoomba’s IVY Designer Collections director Anna Sillett has been announced as one of the denim brand’s newest shareholders.

“For a couple of years my husband Harry and I have been involved with volunteer work in Cambodia and have tried to launch our own social enterprise,” Ms Sillett said.

“When I was approached by Outland Denim and learned more about their story, it really took a hold of me … I have such a special spot in my heart for the people of Cambodia and have a natural urge to help those in need.”

While the Australian denim brand has since launched in some of America and Canada’s largest shopping malls, chief executive officer James Bartle said regional Australia is a target market for the business.

“We’re really wanting to put a lot more resources in our regional areas and align with the right retailers who share our values – like Anna from IVY Designer Collection,” Mr Bartle said.

“It’s an exciting development to see Toowoomba as one of our new stockists as we’ve had so much support from the Toowoomba region and now customers will be able to go into a store to try our products on.

“We call ourselves the ‘people’s brand’ because we believe positive change comes from people and they want to be part of the solution.”

BIG IMPACT: Ivy Designer Collections director Anna Sillett with Outland denim jeans. Picture: Nev Madsen

Outland Denim launched almost five years ago and set out to give employment and education opportunities to vulnerable women who had experienced exploitation and human trafficking.

In addition to its work in combating human slavery, the business has also developed a revolutionary strategy to dispose of clothing and reduce landfill.

“Fashion is one of the most exploitative industries, both to people and our planet but we are proof that by rethinking how we make fashion, we can combat modern slavery and put a serious dent in climate change at the same time,” Mr Bartle said.

“We started this brand to address this social inequality that was happening where these young women were being stolen and sold as a commodity and when you’re exposed to the realities of what the existence our staff had prior – it’s harrowing and scary and our brand exists to stop that.”

Ms Sillett said she expressed interest in owning Outland Denim shares because she wants to put her money where her mouth is and contribute to making the world a better place.

“Not only are they changing the lives of those who’ve come from horrific circumstances for the better, there’s also the sustainability aspect of Outland Denim, which is incredible,” she said.

“There’s so much I genuinely love about Outland Denim … to top it all off the denim they create is beautifully made, so comfortable to wear, and fits well.”

In addition to being part of the social and equality movement, shareholders will also receive dividend and voting rights.

Shareholder expressions of interest are due by June 21 and can be submitted here.

Originally published as Boutique invests in impact