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 thrifted, sustainably sourced, environmentally friendly, and locally produced fibres and textiles.
Born Under Leo creates out of Moh'kinsstis, Treaty 7 Territory (Calgary, Alberta, Canada).
Sustainability
Born Under Leo sources the majority of our cut-and-sew fabrics from thrift stores and non-profits that are committed to keeping fabric waste out of our landfills. We source the majority of our wool fibres directly from Canadian small farmers and producers.
We care about where our materials come from, and the processes they took to become the garment you will wear today. Some fibres and many textiles 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 fabric and fibre that is as gentle and humane as possible.
*NOTE: many of our Pride items are made with acrylic fibres, for a few reasons. First, it is hard to find hand-dyed, compostable, locally produced yarn in the right colours. Second, we want to keep our Pride prices low so everyone has access to clothing that reflects their authentic selves.
Our Pieces
Everything we make is one-of-a-kind
Every single garment we make is unique. We never know what we are going to find at thrift stores, and it is unlikely that we will find the same thing twice.
Due to the nature of the wool 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. Creating clothing is fun and challenging, and we like to keep it that way. Making the same 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!