The Montreal brand launches a collection of designer objects made from its textile remnants
atelier b designers Catherine Métivier and Anne-Marie Laflamme present a new collection of objects made from the textile remnants from their clothing production. Over the past twelve years they have implanted several processes to optimize the use of their raw material, fabric. This new circular economy project neatly wraps things up, making atelier b the first Canadian clothing brand to implement zero-waste production. “We were ready for a more radical mission statement.” – Catherine, co-designer and co-founder.
Designer objects created through circular economy
Made through an eco-friendly transformation process, the brand’s new collection of objects is minimalist, playful and useful. Remnants of natural fibre textiles are kept during the production of clothing. Through innovative technology, they are then transformed into pulp that will become household and office accessories. Fabric remnants containing some synthetic fibres (e.g. underwear) will be transformed into stuffed toys and cushion filling. Mobiles, small accessories, clothes hangers and lamps will be progressively launched throughout the year. These objects, like the brand’s clothing, are produced in Quebec.
End-of-life clothing drive program
atelier b now takes responsibility for all the clothes it has sold over the past twelve years. Even though they are designed to be durable, these clothes sometimes reach their maximum amount of wear and tear, especially when they are beloved and worn often. While the designers already offer a quality guarantee and a repair service at the workshop, it was natural for them to take another step: once atelier b clothing has reached its end of life or is no longer worn, clients can now take them back to the store. Each and every item will be responsibly reused to its full potential through various initiatives; secondhand sales, donations to social reintegration organizations, transformation into objects.
A local brand established in 2009
Inseparable friends Anne-Marie and Catherine founded atelier b together. Their collections of durable, minimalist clothing for men, women and children are tenderly made in Montreal from natural fibre textiles. From a workshop in their own apartment back when they were still in school to their current Mile End boutique and workshop, the project has evolved along with them. Key values such as slow design have remained at the heart of each of the decisions the two friends have taken.
atelier b is all about multiplicity, family, and bringing people together.
These are refined, original, authentic collections, featuring products that are respectful of textile and tailoring traditions. atelier b is a quiet force that pushes forward slowly but surely, while always remaining playful and festive.
