Statement knitwear label, Shone, becomes the first brand to have Vegan Trademark certified products that use innovative and sustainable bio-nylon.
Using unconventional knitting techniques to create beautiful, bold and comfortable designs, Shone is a statement knitwear brand that aims to challenge the misconception of boring and itchy knitwear. Putting sustainability at the forefront, Shone uses bio-nylon to create their products – an innovative and plant-based alternative to nylon.
Bio-nylon is produced using plants which undergo fermentation, swapping out our reliance on raw fossil materials in favour of renewable materials. As a result of this, Bio-nylon has increased biodegradability when compared to its synthetic alternative, naturally degrading in the right conditions in just 5 years, 10 to 20 times quicker than traditional nylon, without impacting its performance during its lifespan as a garment.
The combination of Shone’s fun, colourful designs and a production process that challenges the traditionally negative effects of the fashion industry on animals and the planet has been a recipe for success. Founder of Shone, Shonagh Murray, who started knitting as a coping mechanism, has seen the brand go from strength to strength:
“I started knitting in 2017 during a difficult time in my life. I needed something to keep me occupied, so I decided to teach myself the craft. Soon, it became a central coping mechanism and I haven’t stopped knitting since. My designs have been on a journey… After lots of practicing and experimenting, I came up with a technique that has evolved into the classic Shone Designs you can see today.
“Since developing this new style of knitting, I created my first spring/summer collection, with a focus on fun, playful colours and festival styles. Featuring summer wardrobe staples such as miniskirts and my best-selling Fairy sleeves, my designs are loved by customers all around the world.”
The brand’s designs have been embraced globally, from Coachella to Ru Paul’s Drag Race, Shone’s success continues to grow, and it has now received The Vegan Society’s Vegan Trademark.
The Vegan Trademark is globally recognised across multiple industries, including textiles and fashion, as well as food, drink and cosmetics. The Trademark’s rigorous standards make it easier for consumers to make informed purchasing decisions. The standards include: no animal ingredients or by-products in the manufacturing of a product, that cross-contamination procedures are in place to ensure it is minimised and that it excludes testing at the initiative of the company or on its behalf, or by parties over whom the company has effective control.
Commenting on Shone’s recent certification, Senior Marketing Officer at The Vegan Society Katie Grant said:
“Shone is a great example of a brand that has gone above and beyond to design products that are vegan and sustainable. We are very excited to be working with such an innovative brand that is leading the way in the fashion industry and showcasing that vegans can wear fun and fashionable designs without compromising on their beliefs. Now with the Vegan Trademark certification, they can shout about their vegan credentials with confidence.”
Shonagh Murray shares her experience of working with the society:
“The Trademark application process with The Vegan Society was incredibly thorough, and through it I learnt even more about the production of the materials I was using. The Vegan Society have been incredible to work with. They have supported and guided me through every part of this process, and achieving the Vegan Trademark means I have new opportunities to help me connect with new customers and network with other businesses.”
Visit www.shonedesigns.com to find out more.
Discover more about The Vegan Society’s Vegan Trademark.
