In recent years, 'sustainability' has emerged as a defining buzzword in the fashion industry. Known for being one of the most significant contributors to environmental degradation, the fashion world has come under intense scrutiny. Retailers and designers alike face mounting pressure to transition to more sustainable practices, with many already embarking on this vital journey. At the same time, consumers are increasingly urged to make ethical choices when it comes to their shopping habits. Despite their best intentions to choose environmentally responsible options, however, many are left grappling with the question: “Where can I buy sustainably sourced clothing?” As a result, a growing number of consumers experience guilt when purchasing from less sustainable retailers, feeling lost without access to more eco-friendly alternatives.
Enter Nisha Khater, the founder of Society of Cloth (SOC), a revolutionary retail platform that connects consumers with emerging international brands committed to sustainability, fair employment, and craftsmanship. The platform, built by her and co-founder Avni Goel, provides a solution for shoppers seeking to align their fashion choices with their values. In Nisha’s view, the onus should not fall solely on consumers to navigate the complexities of sustainable fashion. “For years, media and social organizations have highlighted the sheer volumes of waste, greenhouse gas emissions, and blatant human rights violations that define most of the fashion industry. Yet the burden has always been on us as consumers, who keep getting told what not to buy without being given any other options that are sustainable, ethical, and don’t break the bank. It’s exhausting.”
Courtesy of SOC
The inspiration behind Society of Cloth is deeply rooted in Nisha's upbringing. “Growing up in Bangladesh, India, and Indonesia, and later living in the U.S., I’ve seen two disparate sides of the fashion industry. I’ve seen H&M’s production process in Dhaka, where pieces are discarded if a single thread is out of place. I’ve also encountered Indonesian designers who apprentice in artisanal villages in Sumba to research and create their collections. I’ve seen the discourse in the American fashion industry, where the focus is primarily on trends, runway, and fast fashion controversies. To me, the gap between what characterized the fashion industry around the world versus here in the West was too large to ignore.”
Despite its success, the journey of Society of Cloth has not been without challenges. Shifting consumer mindsets is no easy feat, especially in an era dominated by Amazon Prime's overnight deliveries and the rock-bottom prices of fast-fashion behemoths like Shein. Consumers have grown accustomed to instant gratication—getting products quickly and cheaply. However, when working with global artisans, this expectation becomes difficult to meet. The items offered by Society of Cloth are meticulously crafted, with designers striving to waste little fabric or textiles, it at all. Still, this results in longer shipping times and higher prices, which can be a tough sell in a market obsessed with convenience.
Courtesy of SOC
Nisha, however, believes that education is the key to overcoming these obstacles. She encourages consumers to understand the time, effort, and materials that go into each piece, fostering a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship involved. By recognizing the true value of these garments, consumers are more likely to make responsible choices, seeing their purchases not just as transactions but as investments in a better world.
The mission of Society of Cloth is twofold: to inspire consumers to move away from mass purchasing and toward more thoughtful, sustainable choices, and to educate them about the real cost of fashion. SOC’s largely made-to-order model not only reduces waste, but also allows consumers to appreciate the labor and skill behind each piece. This approach transforms shopping from a mindless activity into a meaningful experience, where each purchase supports a network of artisans dedicated to ethical production.
Courtesy of SOC
Selecting the artisans and brands featured on Society of Cloth is a rigorous process, rejecting the platform’s deep commitment to its values. SOC carefully evaluates each brand for sustainable production practices, fair treatment of employees, and a dedication to preserving the craftsmanship of their region. Currently, SOC partners with brands primarily from South Asia, a region that has long been exploited by the global fashion industry. By highlighting the true artistry of these regions, SOC provides a platform for these artisans to reach a global audience, showcasing their work in a context that respects and honors their heritage.
One of Nisha’s favorite collections on the platform is the linen collection. She describes linen as not only fashionable but “incredibly biodegradable,” noting that “linen is made from flax plants that retain CO2, removing it from the atmosphere.” This collection features pieces that are not only unique, but contribute positively to the environment—a perfect embodiment of SOC’s ethos.
Courtesy of SOC
As Society of Cloth continues to grow, Nisha remains steadfast in her commitment to its core mission: providing consumers with beautiful, sustainable clothing while supporting the artisans who make it possible. Her advice to readers? Slow down and ask questions. Research the products you buy—consider the cost per wear, the materials used, and the people who made them. By investing in staple pieces from small designers, you’re not just buying clothes; you’re supporting hard work, ethical practices, and a more sustainable future.
Society of Cloth is more than just a retail platform; it’s a movement toward a more thoughtful, ethical fashion industry. Under Nisha and Avni’s passionate leadership, SOC is poised to make a lasting impact, reshaping the way we think about fashion, one mindful purchase at a time.
By Wiktoria Sobera
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