- Launches second outlet
By Venessa Anthony
Will by Zac, an eco-conscious and sustainable clothing line, recently opened an outlet at the One Galle Face (OGF) mall in Colombo, giving customers a choice between this latest location and their store down Duplication Road, Colombo 3.
Will by Zac is a brand that is eco-conscious in every segment of its business and ensures a contribution to the local workforce and economy alongside its regular operations. Since its inception, the family-run brand has been an advocate for the slow-living movement and has focused on creating breathable fabrics. With their new outlet, the brand is excited to give customers the opportunity to indulge in soft, elegant fashion without feeling guilty about harming the environment.
As more consumers are becoming aware and distrusting of fast fashion companies, the newest movement within the industry centres around sustainability, from design to production and packaging. Jennifer Von Hagt, the main powerhouse behind Will by Zac, has taken several steps in this direction to become more and more sustainable. Speaking to The Morning Brunch, she explained that with the fashion industry being a core contributor to climate change, it has become a part of their ethos to ensure they stand by their values of protecting and preserving the planet for future generations.
She informed us that the global textile industry currently produces 1.2 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide a year, a carbon footprint larger than civil aviation, and maritime shipping combined. Linen is more sustainable than organic cotton. It comes from flax seed, a regenerative plant that enriches the soil and whose harvesting produces very little waste, which is why their line of clothing includes effortlessly crafted and timeless linen tops, dresses, pants, skirts, and shirts.
Will by Zac is a story of beautiful linen coming to life. We asked her why she chose to work with linen in particular, as opposed to other sustainable materials, and Von Hagt explained that linen is a sustainable, breathable, lightweight, and natural fabric suitable for summer wear. “On a tropical island such as ours, there is no doubt the fabric keeps its wearer cool through the warm days with its natural thermo-regulating properties,” she stated, adding that once sourced and produced, it is also more durable, resilient, and ages better with each wash than any other type of fabric.
The team behind Will by Zac works hard to make sure the journey from flax to product is ethical and sustainable. Walking us through this process, Von Hagt explained: “Our clothing has been designed with a wide range of body types and occasions in mind.” The classic, understated designs make each piece suitable for both formal and casual wear, depending on the wearer’s personal style. Talking about their ultimate goal, she stated that she wants their customers to feel comfortable and confident in what they’re wearing, noting that they offer options for both men and women in this fashion. “The fabric itself exudes timeless elegance,” Von Hagt said.
When talking about their vision for 2023, and what to expect besides the new store, she noted that they have a few plans in the pipeline. Von Hagt is not big on over-planning as Will by Zac came to life during the pandemic when nothing was stable and plans were only dreams. Although the majority of the brand’s lifespan was through the pandemic, its vision and mission along with its sustainable practices got them through many challenges.