Why responsible business is the future of fashion
At Son of a Tailor, we believe that business should be a force for good. That's why we became a B Corp in 2022, committing ourselves to balancing profit with purpose.
Being a B Corp isn't just a certification - it's a commitment to people and planet over profit. It means meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, from business model to supply chain impact. As we renew our certification (which happens every three years), we're taking it further - bringing SON Supply, our in-house production facility in Portugal that we established in 2023, into the process for the first time.
At a time when the world faces economic uncertainty, political instability, environmental crises, and increasing skepticism toward sustainability efforts, businesses may be tempted to scale back their commitments. But in reality, resilience isn't about retreating - it's about adapting. Companies that integrate sustainability at their core aren't just doing the right thing for the planet; they're building the agility and durability needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Fashion has long been built on a model of overproduction and unsustainable growth. The consequences? Excess inventory, exploitative labor practices, and a staggering environmental footprint are a stark reality. The industry contributes to 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions - more than international aviation and shipping combined. Meanwhile, 87% of textiles end up incinerated or in landfills.
But beyond these environmental costs, the traditional model is proving economically unsustainable. Consumers are demanding transparency, accountability, and better business practices. Brands that ignore this shift risk losing relevance in an evolving marketplace where sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have - it's an expectation.
At Son of a Tailor, we became a B Corp in 2022, ranking in the top 8% of certified companies globally. But this certification is not the finish line - it's a benchmark for continuous improvement.
As we approach our three-year recertification, we're doubling down on our commitment. One major step? Bringing our own production facility into the certification process, ensuring every part of our supply chain meets the highest standards. Made-to-order production has always been our core approach to reducing waste, but we continue to challenge ourselves to go further, whether it's sourcing more responsible materials, improving working conditions, or innovating in circularity.
“The companies that take action today will thrive tomorrow.”
There's a misconception that sustainability and profitability are at odds. The reality is the opposite: businesses that integrate responsible practices into their core strategy are more resilient, competitive, and better positioned for the future.
Regulations are tightening, with initiatives like the EU's Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) mandating durability, repairability, and recyclability. Meanwhile, financial institutions are incorporating sustainability metrics into investment decisions, and consumers are shifting their loyalty toward brands that align with their values.
The companies that take action today will thrive tomorrow. Those that delay or deprioritize sustainability will not only face regulatory hurdles but also risk losing credibility among increasingly discerning customers.
The industry has always competed on style, price, and innovation. Now, it's time to compete on responsibility.
At Son of a Tailor, we're not perfect but committed to doing better every day. We believe the future of fashion isn't about selling more - it's about selling better. Better products, made responsibly, with a business model that respects both people and the planet.
Your choices make this possible. Every Son of a Tailor piece supports fair working conditions, reduces overproduction, and prioritizes quality. As we continue our journey as a B Corp, we simply want to say: Thank you for being part of it.