Our Story
Our founder, Trina-Rae (or TR as her friends call her), is committed to social justice and climate action. She recognizes that the clothing industry is one of the biggest polluters to our planet, and that many fashion brands have a history of unsafe and unjust working conditions. TR chooses to disrupt the fast fashion complex by creating pieces by hand,
with intention and zero waste, using only sustainably sourced, environmentally friendly, and locally produced fibres.
Born Under Leo creates out of Moh'kinsstis, Treaty 7 Territory (Calgary, Alberta, Canada).
Sustainability
Farm to Fashion
Born Under Leo sources the majority of our fibres directly from Canadian small farmers and producers. We care about where our yarn comes from, and the process it took to become the garment you will wear today.
Some fibres are not sustainably produced, some are processed in factory farm settings, and some come from large facilities that profit from animal mistreatment and poor working conditions and low wages for workers. We do not support these organizations, and strive to source fibre that is as gentle and humane as possible.
*NOTE: while we have a backlog of inventory, we will continue to sell garments made with non-certified fibres. However, we will not be highlighting these pieces and they will only be available at pop-ups and markets.
Our Pieces
Everything we make is
one-of-a-kind
Every single sweater and shawl we make is unique. Due to the nature of the fibres we source, it is rare to repeat colours exactly (the same sheep can grow slightly differently coloured fleece every year!). Also, we get bored easily. Knitting is fun and challenging, and we like to keep it that way. Making the same sweater pattern over and over again is just not our style.
When properly cared for, a sweater made from natural animal fibres will last many years - maybe even decades. And when that sweater has reached the end of its use it can be safely composted to complete the life cycle.
Find out more
Support the slow-fashion and sustainable movement
There is a multitude of farmers, shepherds and shepherdesses, producers, dyers, and advocates in Canada working hard to promote sustainable fibre production. Organizations such as
The Campaign for Wool (www.campaignforwool.ca) have easily accessible information and links to amazing resources. We promote many of these organizations, farmers, and producers on our Instagram page - but we are not experts nor authorities, nor do we hold any kind of comprehensive list. If you are interested in learning more, please take the time to find out what resources are available in your own community.
There is also a multitude of small designers and sustainable fashion brands out there! Even if you do not shop Born Under Leo, sourcing your clothing from a local maker or small shop is a great way to facilitate change. Thrifting, second-hand, and repairing what you already own are also great options!