In a world that’s increasingly conscious of its environmental impact, a new wave of fashion is emerging—one that values sustainability as much as style. At the forefront of this movement is ZEROBARRACENTO, a zero waste fashion brand that’s redefining what it means to create fashion that’s as eco-friendly as it is chic.

In this exclusive interview, we delve deep into the ethos and creative process of ZEROBARRACENTO, uncovering the vision of its talented designer and the brand’s commitment to a more sustainable future. From the cutting-edge designs that grace the runway to the innovative practices that shape their production, this conversation will take you behind the scenes of a fashion brand that’s changing the game.

Join us as we explore the world of ZEROBARRACENTO—a brand where waste becomes a thing of the past, and where style and sustainability go hand in hand. Prepare to be inspired, informed, and immersed in the world of fashion that doesn’t just follow trends but sets them—trends in the direction of a greener, brighter future.

Can you tell me a bit about the inspiration behind starting your zero waste fashion brand? How did the idea come about?

At ZEROBARRACENTO, sustainability has been at the core of the brand since the beginning of our design mission in 2016. From that, we continuously expand our attention to a traced supply chain, careful selection of sustainable materials, and eco-packaging. As a small brand, we hold the highest control over our suppliers! Our name comes from

• Zero: Zero waste brand, we are extremely proud of our reduction of pollution and emissions as well as gender less and ageless designs!
• Barracento: 100 % quality materials are made in Italy, we are extremely careful about the use of our full fabrics and want to lead in sustainability and transparency of production.

What motivated you to merge fashion with sustainability and zero waste practices to create your brand?

ZEROBARRACENTO was created not to revolutionise, but to restructure (re-shape) the values of the fashion industry, escaping seasonal trends and restrictions imposed by age and gender: do not be scared to express yourself!

Our zero waste brand was born with the aim of optimising the textile and fashion production chains by improving the current production processes, but this requires a real mind-shift of both designers and manufacturers.

Can you share some key milestones in your journey from concept to where your brand is today?

In 2020 it was selected by WORTH Partnership Project, the only European project where designers, small and medium sized enterprises, manufacturers and suppliers work together to develop innovative and design-oriented business ideas.

In 2021 ZEROBARRACENTO won instead the second prize of the Sustainable Contest Montecarlo Fashion Week and according to Vogue Talents, the brand is on the shortlist of the best emerging designers and it was selected for Camera Moda’s Designer for Planet project during Milan Fashion Week in June 2021.

The brand has been also selected over the years for many prestigious fashion events, such as Showcase, an Altaroma project of Scouting for new talents and independent Made in Italy brands.

Along this incredible journey, what have been some of your favorite moments or accomplishments that stand out to you?   

One thing we are particularly proud of is the fact that the majority of our clients have unconventional body shapes and that we got feedbacks from them telling us that our styles make them feel beautiful and confident. that’s the biggest design achievement for us.

Zero waste fashion is a significant part of your brand’s identity. Can you explain your approach to zero waste design and production for those who might not be familiar?

As a brand committed to reducing its environmental impact, it’s important for us to explore new ways of designing and producing products. By making zero-waste a 360° choice—a commitment in our everyday lives—we can create greater awareness and change within the industry.
The fashion industry generates a lot of textile waste, and its improper disposal is harming our planet. ZEROBARRACENTO’s designer, Camilla Carrara, strongly believes that zero-waste fashion design is the answer to the dire consequences of the traditional production processes that are polluting our Earth. Zero-waste fashion is about utilising existing materials to their full capacity and not producing textile or other material waste.

Did you know that 15% of textiles go wasted in the fashion production process?

What are some of the sustainable materials and techniques you use in your creations? 

1. Start with a fluid mind and let the fabric guide your creativity, rather than the other way
   around, which is the usual approach
2. Measure the width of the fabric you are planning to use, the ultimate goal is to use every
   inch of it
3. Sketch out some potential ideas of the pieces you would like to create but be aware of the
   fact that some elements could change as you may have to adjust them to the fabric width.
4. Now start working with geometric shapes on paper to create a “puzzle” on all the fabric
   surface
5. Play a bit on the dummy to get the best out of your pieces!
6. Start cutting the fabric and stitch all pieces together!

Our unique pattern development process conserves fabric by using it entirely throughout the garment design stage. This innovative design technique allows for garments to be made without any wasted material at the design stage, which is usually around 15%.

One the main material used is Re.VerSo™. Re.VerSo™ is a new production process that bridges science and technology to create high-quality wool and cashmere. 100% Made in Italy it is made by recovered textile waste handpicked from various brands and their linked factories. The brand collections are clean, essential, and Italian – developed in partnership with mindful manufacturers that are aligned with the brand’s values.

Combining sustainable materials research with selvages as an aesthetic addition gives you a refined and intriguing design. There are no buttons, zippers, or hooks – just a few seams for easier disassembling. Designing mono-material products, when feasible, allow easier recycling at the end of their lives.

Sustainability often involves innovation. Have you encountered any unique challenges or successes in developing eco-friendly materials or processes?

THe most difficult thing for us is finding garment manufacturers ready to use our zero-waste pattern making and placement. We see a growing demand for responsible products at consumer level.

 What are your long-term goals for your brand in terms of sustainability, growth, and impact?

We are working day by day to expand our business while staying true to our values. Moreover, we are collaborating with the start up Xylene to track our full supply chain through blockchain.

Finally, is there anything else you’d like to add or share with our readers about your brand or your journey towards sustainability? If you had one piece of advice for someone aspiring to start their own sustainable fashion brand, what would it be?

The brand is founded on the idea of creating garments that last and can be passed down through generations.our best seller is Luciana dedicated to our designer’s grandmother. This long coat in black is a timeless and gender-neutral piece. Made in Italy with high quality materials it’s developed making use of the distinctive zero-waste technique, speciality of zerobarracento.