What inspired the creation of your company, and when did it start?

We created Orgotton back in 2009 to fill a need we saw in the fashion industry for stylish clothing that was good for both people and the planet. We started out by teaching ourselves to screen print and set up shop in our parents (yes, we’re sisters!) basement and Orgotton was born.

What is your brand’s mission, and what causes drive you and your team?

Ethical practices, organic fabrics, and local production are at the heart of Orgotton’s mission. We focus on local production in Philadelphia that allows us to support local cut and sew manufacturers. We also make sure to use the best quality eco-friendly fabrics for all of our clothing. We use a blend of Organic Cotton, Bamboo, and Spandex that is Made in the USA. We want to go back to a time where clothing was made to last and transcend time. The handcrafted and local part of the process is so important; not only for the quality, but also for the support we are giving to the local economy here in Philadelphia.

How is your brand socially responsible?

We use sustainable fabrics in our production and our hangtags are made from seeded paper. We started thinking, what do people usually do with the hangtags that come on the clothing they buy? They throw them out. Our hangtags are made from seeded paper so once removed from the garment you can plant them and wildflowers will grow!

What does your brand do to lower its ecological impact and/or promote environmental health and well-being?

We lower our ecological impact by using organic fabrics. Cotton is one of the most widely sprayed crops in the US, by choosing organic we are helping to offset the toxins that are harmful to farmers, consumers, and the eco-system.

Does your company perform animal testing and/or use animal-based ingredients in your products? Why or why not?

No Way! We strive to be as vegan as possible.

Where does your company make/manufacture your products, and why?

We manufacture all of our products in Philadelphia. We love that we are able to employee local seamstresses and provide them with a fair hourly wage.

Describe your design philosophy – how do you balance quality and affordability?

Style with substance. Our Infinity Collection is multi-functional. It allows women to buy one piece of clothing that they can wear at least 5 different ways. The long straps can be wrapped and twisted into different styles like a halter, grecian, strapless. The possibilities are endless!

Tell us a little about the ingredients/materials you use. Generally, why did you pick them over other options?

All of our pieces have organic cotton in them. Currently, most of our pieces have a blend of organic cotton, bamboo, and spandex. The bamboo give a beautiful drape to the fabric and makes it really soft against your skin. We also have used a blend of organic cotton and spandex that was made from recycled PET bottles.

What are the next steps for your company?

We want to keep growing! We have some new styles coming out soon that we’re really excited about. And we are starting a program called Orgotton Gives in which every garment we sell we will use the leftover material (which manufacturers usually discard) to make fun, colorful headbands for children in hospitals.

How do you view the future of conscious consumption?

We have seen an increase in socially conscious consumerism over the last couple of years and I think it is just going to become more prevalent. But it’s important for companies to educate consumers.

As a parting sentiment, if you could only use one word to describe your brand ethos – what would it be?

Vivacious