A new small business has opened its door on High St, Maitland with a unique offering of fair trade and ethically sourced products from both local suppliers and around the world.
Business Manager, Amanda Hyde said there is a growing trend for ethically sourced products that not only improve living conditions for underprivileged communities but are made to reduce waste and adverse impacts on the environment.
“Hyde & Silk sells fair trade women’s clothing, accessories and homewares and ensures shoppers can value addto their purchase by supporting ethical and sustainableconsumerism,” Amanda said.
The clothing range includes retro, boho and casual styles with comfort in mind, including popular Australian brands produced in ethical workshops in India, Thailand and Nepal.
“I am passionate about fair trade and ethically produced fashion as opposed to the recent increase in fast fashion which is cheap, mass produced and poor quality clothing that only lasts a season at most. The term fast fashion implies that it is ok to throw away the item after wearing it only a few times,” Amanda said.
“This is not ok and I hope to inspire shoppers to make responsible purchases that help others less fortunate while reducing waste. One of the brands I stock, Happy Trunks, make beautiful, quality harem pants. Branded Pants with a Purpose, each purchase assists the Elephant Nature Park – a sanctuary and rescue centre for elephants in Chiang Mai Province in Northern Thailand.”
Amanda said that purchasing consciously can assist the community, wildlife projects and is a feel good way to make the most of shopping.
“Hyde & Silk also stocks a range of practical and sustainable homewares and gifts, including reusable coffee cups, herbal teas and wheatbags,” Amanda said.
“A practical gift idea is the beeswax wraps made with local honey. Used instead of cling wrap, the wraps keep food fresh and can be used over and over again. Another great gift idea is the Urban Greens kit with seeds, peat pots and recipes – a wonderful gift with everything you need to grow a herb and vegetable garden in your kitchen.”