In a world where fast fashion dominates, one brand stands out by taking a different approach. Sanina, a sustainable clothing brand, is revolutionizing the fashion industry by upcycling unwanted materials into stylish, high-quality pieces that cater to all body types. The term ‘sanina’ comes from the Bisaya word for clothes or garments, reflecting the brand’s roots and cultural inspiration.
Upcycling is not just a trend; it’s a movement. By rescuing textiles destined for landfills, Sanina creates art pieces through an intricate process known as patchworking. This method involves piecing together various fabrics to form unique, cohesive designs. Contrary to the rugged and rough image often associated with patchwork, Sanina’s creations are intentional and captivating, showcasing the highest quality of craftsmanship.
Sanina began as a passion project for its founder, Sarah Tutor. Initially, the brand sold curated finds and some reworked pieces on the side. For Sarah, sewing was more than a hobby; it was a deep-seated interest. “I love mending and altering clothes, especially updating them to current trends because unwanted clothes were too good to be thrown away,” she shares.
Embracing Sustainability: The Heart of Sanina
At the core of Sanina’s mission is sustainability. The brand strives to minimize waste by giving new life to discarded textiles. Every piece created by Sanina not only reduces the environmental impact but also promotes a more sustainable way of living. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of their business, from sourcing materials to the final product.
Patchworking is a meticulous process that requires patience, precision, and creativity. Each piece is crafted by hand, ensuring that no two items are exactly alike. This dedication to detail sets Sanina apart from other brands, as it emphasizes the uniqueness and individuality of each garment. The result is a collection of clothing that is both artistic and functional.
The inspiration for Sanina’s designs comes from the world around us. Sarah draws from a wide range of sources, including nature, emotions, and everyday events. For her, the ability to transform these ideas into tangible products is a form of artistic expression. This passion for creativity is what drives the brand forward and keeps it evolving.
One of Sanina’s most notable collections is entitled FLORENCE. This collection celebrates the beauty of flowers and their metaphorical significance. Just as a flower starts from a small seed and blooms into something beautiful with care and attention, Sanina’s garments undergo a similar transformation. Each piece in the FLORENCE collection is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and artistry.
Signature Styles: Alibangbang and Lawom
Sanina is known for its unique designs, with two styles standing out as customer favorites. The Alibangbang, or butterfly design, is a signature style that captures the essence of freedom and transformation. Another popular design is Lawom, a one-shoulder top that exudes elegance and sophistication. These styles exemplify Sanina’s ability to blend art with fashion seamlessly.
Sanina prides itself on its core values of transparency, consistency, innovation, and client engagement. The brand believes in being open with its customers about its processes and materials. By maintaining consistent quality and constantly innovating, Sanina ensures that it meets the needs and expectations of its diverse clientele. This dedication to customer satisfaction is what makes Sanina a trusted name in a sustainable fashion.
The brand’s mantra, “Art wearing art”, encapsulates the brand’s philosophy. Each piece is designed to make the wearer feel special and unique. By combining artistic elements with fashion, Sanina creates garments that are not just clothes but works of art. This approach celebrates the confidence and individuality of the wearer, making every piece a statement of personal style.
Sarah has valuable advice for young entrepreneurs: focus on offering solutions to your clients’ problems. “Find what these problems are and make the solutions accessible to the people in the form of services or products,” she advises. By addressing real needs, everything else, including marketing, sales, and business operations, will follow naturally. This customer-centric approach is key to building a successful and sustainable business.
Their goal is to contribute even a small percentage to the reduction of textile waste. By upcycling old textiles and clothes, the brand aims to keep these materials out of landfills and instead place them in drawers and closets. This commitment to environmental stewardship is a driving force behind Sanina’s efforts to promote sustainable fashion.
Sanina is more than just a clothing brand; it’s a movement towards a more sustainable and conscious way of living. By transforming unwanted materials into beautiful, high-quality garments, Sanina proves that upcycling is not only possible but also stylish and desirable. The brand’s dedication to sustainability, transparency, and innovation sets it apart in the fashion industry. As Sanina continues to grow, it remains committed to positively impacting the environment and the lives of its customers. With each piece of clothing, Sanina tells a story of transformation, creativity, and hope for a better future.
Don’t forget to follow Sanina on its Instagram or visit its official website.
Photography Kyrra Kho | HMUA Nestee Acla | Location The Studios by Nest Workspaces
