Slow fashion is about designing, producing, consuming & living better. Slow is not the opposite of fast – there is no dualism – but a different approach in which designers, buyers, retailers & consumers are more aware of the impacts of products on workers, communities, and ecosystems. Panel presentation by Fibershed Mountains and Plains members.

Panel:

Nick Sciubba is a 12 year veteran in apparel manufacturing, having worked for some of the largest outfitters in the world. Seeing that common practices within the industry often come at the expense of people and the planet, he set out to do things a different way. Nick founded Wise River on the premise that outdoor-inspired gear should be kind to the outdoors. He looks at Wise River as more than an apparel company, but a movement to spread awareness, inspire action, and build community based on the idea that your gear can be a vehicle for positive impact. Nick’s vision is ultimately that by blending the notions of sustainability and versatility into every Wise River product, you will be able to get more out of your clothing, while lessening its impact on your surroundings.

Sarah Engel's background in Denver includes almost a decade of serving the metro area's thriving entrepreneurial community. She recently started her own business, Nerdy Sheep Fiber Works, and sits on the board of Rockies and Plains Fibershed.org. Sarah is the co-founder and chief operator of Nerdy Sheep Fiber Works here in Colorado. Nerdy Sheep is working with small and rural farms in the Rocky Mountain regions to provide shearing services and sheep education to owners of small herds. They also work with natural fibers and a natural dye process to create eco friendly and unique items for your home. Nerdy Sheep Fiber Works aims to open a natural fiber mill in the next 3 years.