& other stories

Introduction

& OTHER STORIES is a brand founded in 2010 by the H&M Group, aimed at providing a fresh take on fashion for a modern audience. The founders envisioned a space that would empower women to express their individuality through clothing and accessories. With a focus on quality, creativity, and inspiring aesthetics, & OTHER STORIES has carved out a unique niche in the fast fashion landscape, distinct from its parent company by offering more distinctive pieces that evoke a sense of effortless chic.

The brand’s philosophy centers on the idea that clothing should reflect a woman’s personal style while also being versatile enough for various occasions. Each collection is designed with a conscientious approach to sustainability, emphasizing the importance of responsible production. The brand's creative direction involves partnering with different design studios, ensuring that each piece is infused with local inspirations and trends. This commitment to innovation and quality is what sets & OTHER STORIES apart from other brands under the H&M umbrella.

What makes & OTHER STORIES special is its ability to blend contemporary design with a sense of timelessness. By focusing on details, fabric quality, and unique silhouettes, the brand invites women to explore new styles while remaining true to themselves. The storytelling aspect of the brand allows customers to feel connected to the pieces they choose, often reflecting their moods and aspirations. This thoughtful approach resonates with a fashion-conscious audience looking for more than just fleeting trends.

Signature Products

The products offered by & OTHER STORIES play a significant role in defining the brand’s identity, focusing on distinctive and sophisticated designs that cater to a variety of tastes and occasions. Each piece is crafted to not only ensure stylistic harmony but also to promote a sense of individuality.

• Silk Dresses : Elegant and fluid, these dresses come in various styles, perfect for both day and evening wear.
• Tailored Blazers : Sophisticated and structured, these blazers provide a chic finishing touch to any ensemble.
• Leather Handbags : Crafted with precision, these bags combine functionality with a contemporary aesthetic.
• Chunky Knitwear : Cozy and stylish, these sweaters offer warmth without compromising on fashion.
• Statement Jewelry : Unique designs that elevate any outfit, making them perfect for self-expression.

Materials and Ingredients Used by & OTHER STORIES

• Cotton : Cotton is a natural fiber that is soft, breathable, and durable, making it ideal for various clothing items such as t-shirts, dresses, and casual wear. The brand uses cotton for its comfort and versatility in different styles and seasons.
• Down : Down refers to the soft feathers from ducks or geese, providing excellent insulation and warmth. The brand incorporates down in outerwear and jackets to offer customers protection against cold weather, emphasizing both comfort and functionality.
• Linen : Linen is made from the fibers of the flax plant and is known for its lightweight, breathable properties. The brand utilizes linen in summer collections to provide a relaxed and airy feel, perfect for warm-weather clothing.
• Silk : Silk is a luxurious natural fiber that is smooth and lustrous, often associated with elegance. The brand employs silk in blouses, dresses, and accessories to create a refined and sophisticated aesthetic, appealing to customers seeking premium pieces.
• Viscose : Viscose is a semi-synthetic fiber derived from wood pulp, known for its soft and breathable qualities. The brand uses viscose in various garments for its ability to mimic the texture of silk while being more affordable, making it a popular choice for everyday pieces.
• Wool : Wool is a natural fiber obtained from sheep, renowned for its warmth and moisture-wicking properties. The brand incorporates wool in knitwear and outer garments to provide customers with cozy and durable pieces suitable for colder climates.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying From & OTHER STORIES

There are multiple sustainability, environmental, and social issues related to the supply chain of & OTHER STORIES. These issues must be carefully considered and addressed to move towards a more sustainable and ethical production model.

Intense Water Use:

Cotton production is water-intensive, requiring substantial amounts of irrigation in dry regions, which contributes to water scarcity. For instance, it takes about 2,700 liters of water to produce a single cotton t-shirt. This can lead to depletion of local water resources, affecting both ecosystems and local communities who might depend on those water sources for daily living.

Pesticide Use:

The widespread use of pesticides in conventional cotton farming can lead to severe environmental consequences. Pesticides can contaminate local waterways, harm terrestrial and aquatic life, and affect the health of farmworkers and local residents. For example, pesticide runoff has been a documented issue in places like the Indian state of Punjab, where it results in high rates of water contamination.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

Agricultural practices, especially those involving cotton and livestock, contribute to significant greenhouse gas emissions. The use of fertilizers and the methane emissions from livestock exacerbate climate change. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), agriculture accounts for about 10-12% of global emissions.

Animal Welfare:

Materials like down and silk raise serious animal welfare concerns. Geese and ducks are often live-plucked for down, causing them pain and distress. Similarly, silkworms are boiled alive to produce silk threads. Brands must consider alternatives or certified humane options to avoid such practices.

Chemical Processing:

Leather and viscose production involve the use of hazardous chemicals, which can lead to significant water and soil pollution. The traditional process of leather tanning uses chromium, a harmful chemical that poses risks to both workers and local environments. Furthermore, viscose production often involves harmful chemicals like carbon disulfide, which can have significant health impacts on workers.

Fossil Fuel Dependency:

Materials like polyester and acrylic are derived from fossil fuels, contributing to environmental degradation and climate change. Producing polyester releases volatile organic compounds and can lead to heavy metal contamination due to the use of antimony as a catalyst.

Microplastic Pollution:

Synthetic fibers like polyester contribute to microplastic pollution. When garments made of polyester are washed, microfibers enter the waterways and eventually the oceans, impacting marine life and entering the food chain.

Non-biodegradability:

Acrylic and some other synthetic materials do not naturally decompose, which adds to long-term pollution as these materials accumulate in landfills.

By understanding these issues, & OTHER STORIES can explore more sustainable options and practices, reducing the potential negative impacts associated with the apparel industry's supply chain.