No wardrobe is complete without at least one staple piece that can be worn and styled over and over again, in new ways. Staples are the foundation of a wardrobe and they act as reliable starting point to customise and create an outfit. There are some characteristics of what we consider a staple garment to be and do. It should be timeless, it should be versatile, it should be (preferably) good quality and it should definitely represent our personal style. This does not mean that a staple has to be boring though. But if there is one quality all future staple garments should have in common, it is the increasingly non-negotiable need for sustainability. Enter the chat, Flax & Loom.
Who is Flax & Loom?
In short Flax & Loom are a fully sustainable, ethical and GOTS certified clothing brand based in the UK, producing elegant and practical staple pieces for your wardrobe that last! Flax & Loom is the venture of long time sustainable fashion designer Phil Wildbore, who is said to be striving to produce ‘the world’s most sustainable, commercial jean’.
Why was Flax & Loom founded?
Labour has always been an expense in the production of any garment, which all too often, leads to the exploitation of workers, whether it be the farmers growing the raw materials, the people making the garment or even the sales assistant selling the finished product. The fast fashion industry has taken this exploitation to another level.
Flax & Loom are seeking to challenge this broken narrative by offering a model for change.
Flax and Loom provide staff with the best possible working environment to make sure their place of work are the safest spaces possible.
“First we want to establish a partnership with a cotton grower (in Turkey). Next, we find local manufactures to weave the fabric, make and dye the finished garment. Distribution is also centred in Turkey, which means we have an extremely low carbon footprint. The next level is to successfully achieve an organic crop rotation for hemp, flax and cotton in a symbiotic programme. But probably our most sustainable attribute is that what we make is built to last. Maybe even end up in a vintage store in 20 years or more.”
Best Selling Staples
Their staples are guaranteed to look and feel as good as they do now, as they will in decades to come! Offering men’s, women’s and unisex styles in classic silhouettes and neutral colours, each garment is designed with people, planet and the wearer at the heart.
Flax & Loom’s menswear range also include classic, timeless silhouettes flattering for all body shapes and are as sturdy and practical as they are stylish.
Flax & Loom also offer staples in a wonderfully vibrant array of colours, meaning that (like mentioned earlier), a staple item does not mean a boring one.
The main ethos behind the design is quality. The fabrics are chosen for their durability, their texture and handle. Every organic ingredient, the linen, the hemp, the cotton has been harvested within the vicinity of the weavers. Every part of each piece of clothing is stitched and washed in an eco-formula and finished at Flax & Loom partners in a family run, bespoke clothing factory where people are paid a fair wage. Until its final dispatch from the factory, the whole cycle is dedicated to producing the lowest carbon footprint possible.
The last part is you. My wish is for your pair of Flax & Loom’s to becomes your absolute favourite, the one you pull back from the laundry basket. My passion is designing – hopefully you will love the results.
Phil Wildbore
Owner and Designer of Flax and Loom
Make the Switch
Switching out micro-trend led fast fashion purchases for timeless staples pieces is not something that needs to happen overnight. Slowly integrating investment pieces into our wardrobes is a sure way to ensure that we’re building not just outfits, but an entire wardrobe of pieces that we love and want to wear over and over again.
This must be accompanied with a shift in mentality. As consumers, our sense of what fashion costs has been warped by super fast fashion giants. The general consumer has come to expect clothes to be made cheaply available, with a tolerance of poorer quality items. Sustainable, high quality, timeless garments do often warrant a higher price point because the true cost of materials, resources and labour has been captured fairly in the price tag.
We all must also be simultaneously working on reducing our fashion consumption in parallel to making better fashion choices. When we take all these points into consideration, a pair of £125 sustainably made Flax & Loom jeans designed to last decades (versus a cheaply and exploitatively made £30 pair of fast fashion jeans designed to last months) is the real deal! Flax & Loom are true pioneers and champions of their craft and the garments speak for themselves.
No shady business here! Just ethically made, eco-friendly sunglasses, for a timelessly stylish and effortlessly cool accessory to complete any summer look! Protect your eyes and the planet, and look good doing so. After all, sunglasses are to summer, what avocados are to toast. A perfect match.
There are many independent brands championing such sustainable materials, durability and lasting style, for sunglasses that really do as good as they feel to wear. With that, we invite you to explore the incredible brands at Veo offering a range of colours, styles and frames made from innovative materials like recycled plastic, sustainably-sourced wood, and lightweight recycled aluminium.
Discover stylish and vibrant sunglasses made from recycled PET, plastic waste and innovative materials like bio-acetate. The above featured Malaika Sunglasses are a perfect example of this.
Malaika’s square shape and clean silhouette is beautifully balanced, providing a modern take on a design that draws inspiration from the spirit of the Sixties, with a slightly thicker sunglasses frame that works for any occasion. They’re made with bio-acetate which provides an eco-friendly alternative to petroleum-based plastics, which also helps ensure that your sunglasses will biodegrade more quickly at the end of their economic life, which is better for our planet. Their microfibre bag is made from 70% recycled PET bottles too.
Recycled oak wine and whisky barrels, sustainable bamboo and sandalwood are just some of the innovative, ethical materials used to create our range of stylish wooden frame sunglasses.
Heralded as one of Bird’s most iconic designs, the above Wren wooden sunglasses are a fusion of twelve different layers of bamboo, beech, sandalwood with two recycled aluminium layers, creating a unique pair of sustainable sunglasses. The Wren comes fitted with amber polarised lenses as standard and each pair is carefully finished with adjustable bio-acetate temple ends to make the fitting more comfortable. Precision German OBE sprung hinges give the arms flexibility to ensure the perfect fit.
Wooden frames are a great option for anyone who prefers an earthy, grounded and more natural feel to their style.
Discover recycled aluminium sunglasses, for a lightweight frame that offers maximum comfort with space-grade materials. That’s right, some our recycled aluminium sunglasses are out of this world! Fancy something more grounded? Bear Essentials also offer aluminium and wood frames and plant a tree for every pair sold.
Pictured above, the Apollo Recycled Aluminium Aviator Sunglasses (available in silver and gold), are made with a recycled aerospace aluminium frame, the same material used to make CubeSat satellites, specially engineered to take the punishment that aircraft and space vehicles endure and re-shaped by Bird Sunglasses. But weighing less than 20 grams, you won’t even notice you are wearing them.
The classic Top Gun Aviator shape offers a wide eye covering which will suit the majority of face shapes and sizes. These ultra-durable and corrosion-resistant stunning metal sunglasses are timeless classics and have polarised lenses with 100% UVA/UVB protection to keep your eyes safe.
Our love affair with sunglasses is one that has stood the test of time and we can all agree that it will continue to do so. They epitomise functional and aesthetic fashion, working both to protect our eyes and make our outfits work even harder.
Sunglasses often act as a staple and desirable entry-point to the world of fashion. So if you’re going to make a fashion statement with your eyewear this summer, why not make a sustainable one?
Britain has a long history of innovation, invention and ideas. It is here that the birth of the industrial revolution was ignited. It is here that the basis of the first computer and many years later the World Wide Web was invented. From our grey drizzly weather, to our obsession with pubs, roast dinners and tea, the quintessential elements of British culture are, industrial, robust yet often refined. Our best of British brands are not only champions of British craftsmanship, ideas and style, they too mirror ideas of innovation.
As a Manchester-based company, we’re also particularly proud to work with and be a platform for pioneers and creatives in the North. We recognise that talent isn’t constrained to London and in fact, independent brands across the United Kingdom are channelling British culture in their own unique and localised way.
Why is it good to support local business?
Supporting local business is a great thing to do. When we shop local, it enriches our communities in many different ways, from helping to fuel local economic growth and development and the build up of valuable relations within communities. Throughout the pandemic, it was small and local businesses that were hardest hit. Simultaneously, our appreciation of local businesses was amplified, as we were reminded how much they are the fabric of our communities and wider society.
So, as we continue the final run up to the Platinum Jubilee, we want to take the opportunity to give spotlight to our very own Best of British. These brands span the entire country bringing you unique, sustainable products across fashion, beauty, health, food, and homeware.
Our Best of British
Haoma
Haoma is a vegan skincare and beauty product company that is built on the power of plants. They take pride in using only certified organic, pure plant ingredients. Haoma’s team of chemists and herbalists combine high quality, clinically proven plant ingredients with carefully selected bio-engineered compounds to create powerful and effective formulas.
Their journey started at the historical spa city of Bath, in a small uni accommodation room. Now Haoma is offering an ever-growing range of products that champion sustainability, harmony and a bright future for Earth.
Rozenbroek is a British, women founded, sustainable clothing brand that celebrates design and durability. Jade Rozenbroek, a former luxury menswear designer for brands such as Marc Jacobs, Burberry and Versace, was compelled to start her own brand as she couldn’t ignore the environmental impacts of fashion and the lack of options for conscious consumers.
All of their garments are designed in London and hand crafted in East Yorkshire, using only organic fabrics which are sourced as locally as possible, with the majority coming from Europe. They never use wool, silk or leather and all their accessories are all made from 100% organic fabrics and off cuts., in an attempt to be as circular as possible.
Watson and Wolfe, have over 20 years’ experience in luxury accessories. Each item in their collection is handmade with premium quality, low impact vegan materials and made in an ethical supply chain.
Helen began her career at Aspinal of London where she developed a passion for leather goods. Like many people, Helen believed that leather was a by-product of the meat industry. When she discovered the industry was causing unimaginable suffering to animals, polluting land and water and damaging human health, Helen realised she needed to rethink everything, so in 2017 whilst juggling motherhood she decided to start a men’s accessories brand from her home in Surrey.
Launched in 2013 by founder Will Green, Will’s Vegan Store is a vegan company at the front of vegan clothing and sustainable fashion. They only use vegan materials, from the uppers & linings to the glue in their fashion, and only sell vegan lifestyle products. Discover their vast range of footwear, bags and wardrobe classics.
As they very rightly point out, you do not need to be a vegan to enjoy vegan products!
Good House London was born out of the love of beautiful, quality design and slow, ethical practices. They create for those who care about how their style affects planet Earth! Good House London’s first capsule collection comprised versatile, timeless and trans-seasonal pieces made from signature vegan Bamboo Silk. They have made their practices as sustainable as they possible can by sourcing all materials, supplies and production in the UK.
Flax & Loom is the new venture of long time sustainable fashion designer Phil Wildbore. He’s now striving to produce ‘the world’s most sustainable, commercial jean’. The hemp and the cotton has been harvested within the vicinity of the weavers. Every part of each piece of clothing is stitched and washed in an eco-formula and finished at Flax & Loom partners in a family run, bespoke clothing factory where people are paid a fair wage. Until its final dispatch from the factory, the whole cycle is dedicated to producing the lowest carbon footprint possible.
Komodo have been committed to creating eco friendly fashion since 1988. They are dedicated to creating clothes that are sustainable and don’t have a negative impact on the environment. They are passionate about protecting and nurturing our planet, but also love fashion and don’t believe the two need to be mutually exclusive. They use premium quality organic, natural and eco fibres, breaking new ground with innovative fabrics such as green PU coating and recycled PET, from plastic bottles. Komodo is GOTS certified and a member of the soil association.
Votch are a cruelty free, vegan watch company. Votch create timeless classic styles in a wide range of colours and shapes and a timeless style for everyone. Their aim is to make cruelty free accessories more readily available to all, and to show that you don’t need to be cruel to be cool.
Claire Hill Designs offer a range of timeless, demi-fine jewellery with a modern edge. It’s all about effortless style that never goes out of fashion, elevating everyday looks with touches of trend-led luxury. Using thick vermeil plating and sustainable metals like recycled gold and silver, there are coin necklaces to inspire and chunky gold hoops to make you feel good. These are pieces to fall in love with, over and over again. Claire Hill Designs is committed to sustainable production throughout the whole production process.
Elliott Footwear is the world’s first climate positive sneaker brand. Sustainable, Recycled and Vegan. Originally founded in Copenhagen, Elliott Footwear is a brand with a minimalist approach to style and impact on the planet. Inspired by Danish design, global art, elegant architecture and contemporary culture a path has found to combine ready-to-wear-everyday-footwear, climate action and a continued journey towards a sustainable profile.
Handmade luxury stackable concrete homewares and fragranced natural wax candles. Designed to enlighten your home. Concrete and Wax’s aim is to create a collection of timeless artisan products, that are built to last, whilst keeping their footprint as small as possible.
Find Your Glow create beautifully scented, 100% natural candles and diffusers that smell and look amazing in your home. Whilst each scent has a story and individual character to evoke memory, feeling and mood, Find Your Glow found it was equally important to create modern designs – to fit in with and subtly enhance any living space. And with all of that, F.Y.G. had to be sustainable. That is why each product is 100% natural and recyclable.
Little by Little’s collections are inspired by the natural beauty found in food and are lovingly created using gold, silver and touches of enamel. Whether worn individually or as part of a set, each piece is impacting and eminently wearable, bringing a little ethical luxury into your everyday.
SOP (Scents of Place) is a bodycare and fragrance brand made in Norfolk and inspired by the local landscape and language. All their products are vegan and cruelty-free and SOP products are crafted with care and our processes are responsible – driven by diligence and sustainability, rather than the bottom line. It’s a holistic, harmonious approach that celebrates wellness and wonder in equal measure.
Honestly Tasty redefines cheese for vegans & non-vegans alike. They’re mission is “To create delicious plant-based cheese, giving people an alternative to dairy without compromise, for the benefit of our planet and all animals on it“. All produce is ethically sourced and their supply chain is transparent too. The vegan cheese has even won awards and has raving reviews!
Freedom Chocolate are multi-award winning artisan British chocolate makers. They believe in great tasting, luxury chocolate made from raw cacao. Skilfully hand crafted in small batches on a granite slab the chocolates are suitable for everyone, including vegans, as well as being allergy friendly.
Nikki Hill Apothecary provides the highest quality, therapeutic herbal teas, tinctures, candles and body oils designed to support and balance your hormones whilst encouraging you to slow down, reconnect and be more mindful.
Ethical Bedding offers the best sleep of your life guaranteed! Designed to be more than just luxurious and more than just sustainable, their products create a feeling of wellness whilst helping the natural world thrive. They also boast a 100% ethical supply chain and variety of organic products.
Boy Wonder is designed for parents who value creative, unique styles for their kids. Everything they do at Boy Wonder has ethics and sustainability at its core from the design stage through to the shipping agents they use. Their garments are created using British-made certified organic cotton yarn. Their packaging, swing tags and all other paper-based products are plastic free and made with recycled and biodegradable stock.
Milly & Sissy offer an amazing range of natural, cruelty-free shower cremes, hand washes, shampoos, and hair & body washes, beautifully packaged in compostable refill sachets and recyclable glass bottles for the perfect zero-waste beauty routine.
Explore Frida Rome’s luxury cactus and apple leather collection, discover eco-conscious materials matched with sleek, cutting-edge design, finished with an erotic story detail. Crafted in premium vegan materials and manufactured in Britain, FRIDA ROME handbags are designed to be a lifetime companion. Attention has been placed on creating high quality pieces that are built to last and don’t adhere to seasonal trends. Offering instead structured, chic, signature staples.
Phloem Clothing is an ethical and sustainable streetwear range. Their garments are ethically manufactured in a facility powered by 100% renewable energy, made from certified organic and sustainable materials with embroidered designs. They believe in planet and people friendly clothing.
Explore an award winning, eco-friendly tea collection. Premium whole leaf teas that are hand-blended exclusively in the UK. As well as unique blends and delicious taste, Camellios want to do their bit for the planet and offer a sustainable product that doesn’t harm the environment. That’s why all elements of their packaging is recyclable and entirely plastic-free.
All across the UK, small businesses, talented creatives and innovative visionaries are challenging the narrative of how we shop. By shopping with Veo, you’re helping to support the fantastic, independent British-owned businesses helping to shape the future of sustainable shopping right here in the UK!
The nation is making preparations for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and we have the sustainable fashions, homeware and vegan-friendly treats for you to get involved in the celebrations too. Tea, bucket hats, vegan cheese, picnic blankets and nibbles is about as British as it gets (apart from an overcast day)!
Since the Queen came to the throne 70 years ago, the world has changed significantly, thanks largely to advances in science and technology. Our world is more interconnected than ever before and businesses and industries operate on a global scale via complex webs of trade and transport. Whilst much of our modern lives and comforts derive from these innovations, we have also seen a parallel shift in nature and our planets ecosystems.
The amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere has increased more than 20% in less than 40 years, owing largely to human activities. It’s a staggering, and somewhat abstract statistic, that is having incredibly real consequences through the ongoing climate crisis. Much as the way we revolutionised manufacturing, production and industry, we must now innovate once again and also seek to revolutionise the way we consume and dispose of products too. Such a monumental change won’t happen over night. But that doesn’t mean our actions today aren’t having an impact. Quite the opposite actually. The choices we make today as businesses and consumers will directly and consequentially impact the future. So really, it’s up to us to decide what the next 70 years (and beyond) can look like.
With that in mind, the Platinum Jubilee weekend is approaching and what would life be without being able to spend time relaxing and partying with our loved ones. You can still celebrate the Jubilee in style, thanks to our handpicked Jubilee Weekend Collection of sustainable goodies.
Sustainable Fashion
Channelling some Jubilee energy doesn’t have to be completely as on-the-nose as a Union Jack graphic tee. For more subtle nods to the occasion, try incorporating red, white or blue pieces into your outfit. Opt for a block colour co-ord set for a bolder impact. The beautiful thing about all the above pieces, is that despite being fitting for the Jubilee, they’re also timeless staples that can work with your wardrobe beyond this occasion.
Sustainable Accessories
Accessories are the perfect way to customise an outfit and make it truly your own. Have a play around with ethical jewellery, sustainable tech accessories or hats and hair pieces to compose an outfit and Jubilee-inspired look that is truly your own.
Incorporating vegan-friendly and plant-based alternative’s into our diets doesn’t have to be a strict regime or flavourless. The vegan food market is pioneering new tasty creations every single day. In fact, there’s never been a better time to try vegan! Here’s a handful of Jubilee appropriate goodies to get you started.
Sustainable Homeware
A humble cup (or pot) of tea and the joys of a picnic in the park are arguably synonymous with British culture. They say that you can’t re-invent the wheel, and when it comes to these British staples, we agree. However, that doesn’t mean we can’t upgrade the wheel to be more efficient. For example, the above featured multi-purpose towels are made from 100% Organic cotton with natural tassel’s and can also be used as picnic blanket or table clothes (for those refined tea party lovers amongst us).
A Historic Occasion
Regardless of personal views of the Royal Family, it must be noted that a 70 year reign is certainly a historical occasion. One of which we will not see again in our lifetimes. Whether you’re celebrating history, the Queen or just looking forward to the extra holiday, you can celebrate consciously with a little help from Veo. And as we do, we can’t help but wonder just what the next 70 might years look like…
We understand as a society, now perhaps more than ever, the important of talking about mental health and having mental wellbeing. Self-care is an important part of taking care of our wellbeing. Making time for ourselves isn’t always easy, but as and where we can, we should always try and prioritise it on a regular basis. Ever heard the phrase you can’t pour from an empty cup? Know what happens to a phone when you don’t recharge it? Think of yourself, your mind, body and spirit in the same manner. Self-care is an investment and commitment to preserving our physical and mental wellbeing, allowing us feel and be the best versions of ourselves.
Here, Veo World offers you a curated and conscious guide to self-care essentials and indulgences that enable you to make the most of your ‘me time’. When it comes to self-care, it’s important to remember that there is no one size fits all. Self-care is incredibly subjective and personal. But having said that, we all need to take some downtime in some form or another and after the chaos of present times and past years, heaven knows we could all use some more TLC. So without further ado, here’s you’re Curated Guide to the Self-Care You Deserve…
Omvits | Vegan Multivitamins & Minerals
Self-care isn’t just about mental wellbeing, it’s about looking after our physical health too. A lack of adequate nutrition can lead us to feel lethargic, and just not like ourselves.
These carefully balanced vitamin and mineral supplements offer a convenient way to top-up your diet and meet your daily requirements. Offering a generous dose of 13 vitamins and 11 minerals, you’ll be able to fill the gaps in your diet, whilst still staying within the safe dosage limits and without any use of palm oil. They’re suitable for veggie and vegan diets and the pouches are 100% plastic-free, biodegradable, compostable and recyclable too!
Inhala Soulwear | Eagle Spirit Recycled Natural Rubber Yoga Mat
Yoga’s origins can be traced to northern India over 5,000 years ago practice. Today, it is a global phenomenon with people practicing in all corners of the globe. It’s benefits range from improving flexibility, reducing stress, improving mental health, reducing inflammation and anxiety, whilst also helping you sleep and boosting your mood.
Inhala Soulwear was founded by two Peruvian yogis who decided to create an authentic and mindful soulwear brand. The vision was to create a tribe with a lifestyle true to its kind. Born in Peru, Inhala, or to inhale in English, opens the initial doorway connecting mind, body and soul.
Their Eagle Spirit Eco Yoga mat promises to elevate your practice to the highest of Pranas, with guaranteed performance, soft grip for life and anti-skid feature when met with water. This mat is suitable for all kinds of practices whether you’re a beginner or an advanced yogi.
Taking care of our skin is also a great way to practice some self-care and love. As the bodies largest organ, skincare cannot be underestimated. Botany Blends’ deliciously scented Sunbird Organic Body Oil flirts with and uplifts the senses. It’s the colour of sunshine and when applied is said to be reminiscent of fresh summer mornings.
The feel-good aroma evokes happiness and uplifts the senses. For best results, use relaxing deep touch pressure, applying directly after bathing to lock in hydration. Gently massage the oil into the skin and inhale the aroma to uplift the senses and boost that feel good factor.
Nikki Hill Apothecary | Relaxation & Calming Herbal Leaf Tea
This Relaxation Herbal Infusion tea is perfect to help you unwind and relax anytime of the day. This delicious blend has been formulated with herbs that have been traditionally used to calm the mind and body. So sit back, relax and allow your body to enter a state of pure relaxation.
Essence No1 | Natural Vegan Soy Wax Candle Dark Pomegranate
Who doesn’t love a candle for a bit of ‘me time’? Essence No.1 candles not only offer luxury fragrances, they are also vegan, cruelty free and committed to sustainably sourcing all products and materials. Their eco-friendly, vegan soy wax is ethically sourced from GMO free suppliers.Their sleek, stylish jars are made from recycled materials and also be recycled after use. The labels are printed on recyclable material, using water based, earth safe ink.
SuperfoodLx’s pure and intensely rich, whole plant cannabis extract is sourced from a small organic farm in the Netherlands. Whether you are new to taking CBD or a seasoned connoisseur, this organic blend is sure not to disappoint as it helps to reduce joint inflammation, reduce feelings of anxiety, improve sleep patterns, support mood management with noticeable pain relief within 10-15 minutes. Oh, it’s also vegan and gluten free!
The Mood Club | ‘Exciting Plans’ Sustainable Lined A5 Notebook
At first glance, you might be wondering why a notebook is relevant here. Well, journalling is another popular practice of self-care, with many studies showing that regular journalling can improve your mood and give you a greater sense of overall emotional well-being and happiness. It is also said to help strengthen memory and reduce stress and anxiety. You don’t even have to think too much about it. Sometimes just putting pen to paper and scribbling out your thoughts freely can help offload them and offer us a feeling of release. Why not have a go at incorporating some journalling into your self-care routine?
We hope that this Curated Guide to Self-Care has offered some suggestions that resonate with you and your lifestyle and values. It goes without saying that just like life itself, feelings are fluid and inconsistent. We all have good days and bad days. That is the very nature of being human. The above guide is in no way intended to replace professional medical help and if you are struggling with your mental heath, we would encourage you to reach out to either a doctor, counsellor or even just a friend or family member. There is no shame in admitting when we’re not okay and reaching out is often the first step to things getting better.
Let’s wrap things up with a little positive affirmation. Place your hand on your heart and say out loud ‘I am grateful for my life force and energy’.
Hello there, welcome to Veo. A place where people and planet come first and sustainability isn’t the exception, but the norm. Where you can shop your values with ease and discover conscious brands without compromising on choice or style. You may think that such a place is too good to be true, or even be thinking to yourself ‘what’s the catch’? But we assure you, Veo is no illusion. We’re as real as they come and we’re so excited to have you here. Please, allow us to show you around…
Circular Ring Road
The first leg of our journey is on Circular Ring Road. The Circular Ring Road is the pathway that connects everything we do here. It’s the underlying principle and means to our purpose-driven mission to transform how we live, produce and consume. To disrupt antiquated economics, and introduce new and positive systems – regenerative, closed loop, circular – that reinvent the relationship between business and consumer.
The circular economy looks beyond the current take-make-dispose system and represents a systemic shift that aims to redefine growth, focus on positive society-wide benefits, build long-term resilience, business and economic opportunities, and provide environmental and societal benefits (The Ellen MacArthur Foundation).
It’s important to note that a true circular economy is not yet fully realised. Fully circular systems require further investment, infrastructure, scaling and both business and consumer participation. However, there are many brands implementing the key principles and foundations to which a thriving future circular economy can be built upon. At Veo, we are proud to be a place that enables circularity-motivated ideas to become accessible and tangible.
Zero Waste Avenue
Zero Waste Avenue is particularly pristine, because here, we do exactly what it says on the tin (and then we recycle the tin afterwards). Zero waste means to design products and processes that eliminate the volume and toxicity of waste and materials across industries, supply chains and processes – like sourcing and manufacturing.
It also involves doing our best to avoid single use items, recycling and keeping materials out of landfill, where possible. Such lifestyle habits have become increasingly popularised by the zero waste lifestyle and minimalism movements of recent years. However, these habits are arguably no longer optional but essential. We must all actively make a conscious effort to channel zero waste practices in our life.
If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, don’t worry. Zero Waste Chef Anne-Marie Bonneau sums it up best, “We don’t need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly. We need millions of people doing it imperfectly”. Being a little zero waste is better than not being zero waste at all. Now just imagine what would happen if millions (if not billions) of us acted with this mindset.
Discover some of our most popular zero waste solutions at Veo:
Organic Park
Our next stop is Organic Park, a fantastic spot to slow down and reconnect with nature. But what does ‘organic’ actually mean? When you see food, cosmetics, cleaning products, or any products for that matter, labeled as organic, it’s referring not only to the product itself but how the produce or ingredients were grown and processed. This means without the use of things like synthetic pesticides and fertilisers, genetically modified organisms and bioengineering (The Spruce Eats).
Yes, the term has become a bit of a greenwashing buzzword and is often deceptively used by large brands, but we want to reassure you that when we say organic, we really mean it.
To ensure our brands and products meet our sustainability goals we created a comprehensive, award-winning ethical criteria that we apply to ourselves, our brands, and every single product that you see on our platform. We undertake a thorough assessment of each brand, to demonstrate high quality, sustainable trading, responsible labour standards, and ethical supply chains.
Discover organic solutions at Veo:
Independent Street
Independent Street is the vibrant, beating heart of our community. It’s a place to come and celebrate creativity, innovation, unique styles and future-proof design. Independent brands are typically more conscious of their ethics. They have a relationship with their customers, and they both recognise this as added value (Medium.com). They seek to challenge and innovate the status quo and provide tangible solutions in both local communities and to the lives of their customers.
We too recognise this and value high quality, innovative and plant-based brands. We work with designers and artisans from around the world whose brand reflects these values. We’re proud to be working with 300+ independent brands across Fashion, Beauty, Food, Health and Home.
Discover the best, most unique, independent brands at Veo:
Fairlymade Fieldway
Now for the final leg of this tour, we’re stopping in Fairlymade Fieldway. This is one of the most significant parts of Veo as there is no true sustainability without ethical and human rights. The United Nations state that “human rights create conditions essential for sustainable development. The 2030 Agenda recognises that inclusive and participative economies, and societies in which government is accountable, achieve better outcomes for all people, leaving no one behind”. Our curated collection of brands promote dignity and quality of life for all humans. This includes fair pay and safe and decent working conditions for all workers.
For us, this also encompasses the fair treatment of animals. We care about all living things, so much so that Veo is a 100% vegan-friendly marketplace. This means avoiding the use exploitation and oppression of animals and creating a cruelty-free zone that promotes the rights and wellbeing of all living creatures. Friendly reminder, you don’t have to be a vegan to enjoy vegan products.
Discover fairly-made pieces at Veo:
Happy Exploring Earthlings!
Although we have come to the end of this tour, there is still plenty of other values and things to explore at Veo. Whether you wish to explore independent brands and innovative products that align with your values, or you’re looking to broaden your horizons and expand your sustainability journey to new areas, Veo is the place to do just that.
…We hope you’ll enjoy your visit and we look forward to hearing about what you discover. Happy exploring fellow Earthlings!
In an ideal world, today would solely be a global celebration our complex, diverse and thriving planet. When we think about the marvel of our existence and the probability of life in our universe, here on Earth, we are an enigma across all of current science and space. You would think that our uniqueness of life, in all its shape and forms, would present an innate desire to preserve its scarcity at all costs, right?
Instead, Earth Day is currently a global call for action to protect our threatened environment. Years of exploitative and unregulated industry practices (like deforestation, fracking, burning fossil fuels), have begun to destabilise our planets natural ecosystems.
Whilst today is about creating urgency and motivating action, it’s not all to be doom and gloom! We can harness the power of hope to innovate! After all, hope is a key driver of change…
But it’s not just indigenous communities that are working to protect the planet. Youth climate activists around the world are leading in the way driving important conversations and demanding accountability from global leaders. Global climate strikes of recent years, led by the likes of Extinction Rebellion, have united people beyond borders, to address climate change so that we can not only survive but thrive!
Caught Green Red Handed!
So, we know our planet is in some hot water of our own making. We know we must act quickly and meaningfully to reverse the effect of climate change. However, public awareness of the situation also transcends across big brands and corporations, which is where the newer issue of greenwashing comes into play.
According to The Sustainable Agency, one of the best things people can do to protect themselves from greenwashing is to become familiar with recent cases of it. Some of the most prolific ones they note include Ikea for accredited illegal logging, H&M for insincere sustainable fashion claims, Ryanair for false low-emissions claims and Shell for gaslighting the general public (you can read more about these cases here).
Start Small. Think Big.
Despite all of this, and whilst we desperately still need action and accountability from global leaders, businesses and corporations, we can still play our part as individuals. As quoted by by Howard Zinn, “Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world”! When it comes to taking climate positive action as consumers, the best thing you can do is use what you already own. The second best thing you can do is cast your consumer vote consciously and at Veo, we strive to be the platform that enables you to do just that. Our goal is to make ‘sustainable shopping’ the standard, the accessible, the aspirational… a beautiful new normal.
Veo World x Our World
Veo seeks to transform how we live, how we produce, and how we consume. To disrupt antiquated economics, and introduce new and positive systems – regenerative, closed loop, circular systems – that reinvent the relationship between business and consumer. To form the catalyst for change, that revamps the very nature of supply and demand for the better.
In line with Sustainable Development Goal #12, to “ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns”, we ensures all brands and products utilise pioneering methods of sustainable production. This includes more efficient use of our natural resources, and using innovative bio-materials, organic fabrics, and less wasteful practices.
For us, sustainability isn’t a choice, but a necessity. Providing a community for consumers to lead healthier and happier lives through sustainable choices, and use of products that not only last longer, but are higher quality and are the better alternatives to those widely available. We are proud to be a platform for innovators who are transparent, legitimate in their ethical credentials and want to be part of positive change – we’ve got a B Corp Certification to prove it too!
This Earth Day melt hearts, not ice-caps! Remember, in line with this years theme ‘Invest in Our Planet’, using your consumer power consciously can have a bigger impact than you realise! Still want to know more? You can head to our Sustainability page to learn more about our credentials and values.
Spring epitomises new beginnings. As we fully emerge out of the cold dark months of winter, we’re filled with a renewed sense of optimism. Tree branches are replenished with bustling leaves of green. Flowers are sprouting from the ground and the fields are populated with the cutest baby animals. It’s a picturesque time of year that not only commemorates the end of the harshest season, but a reminder of natures resilient, cyclical, beauty.
Many of us feel this transformation in nature reflected back into us. We feel energised and motivated to embrace the longer days. We look forward to arriving to and leaving work in daylight hours and taking respite in green spaces to bask in the sun. Such simple joys are kindly reminded to us in Spring and we can often feel intensified gratitude and appreciation of nature during this time.
At Veo, we’re on a mission to make it easy to show appreciation to nature all year around. We believe that, as consumers, we shouldn’t have to compromise on our choices to embrace a sustainable lifestyle. Nor should we have to sacrifice our values in order to acquire the things that that enhance and enrich or bring comfort and ease into our busy lives.
We believe that quality and sustainability are intrinsically linked, that one cannot exist without the other and so we’ve cherry picked some of our recommended sustainable essentials to cover you this Spring, from fashion, to beauty, to sweet treats. So, you can put your best foot forward and spring into positive eco action, by using your consumer power consciously.
Making eco more colourful, one dress at a time! Say hello to Lilla, a full and vibrant organic cotton dress in delicious golden yellow with pink silk screen print over the bodice and puffy sleeves.
Rose Corps dresses are 100% organic, fair-trade cotton hand-dyed, hand-printed and hand-embroidered. They are coloured with non-toxic, low impact and eco products and adopt a loose and slouchy shape for extra twirly properties and volume. Oh and we should also mention, they have side pockets that fit actual things!
All My Eco:Vegan Leather & Recycled Plastic Striped Trainers
What better way to dress down a stunning spring/summer dress then with a pair of classic white trainers? All My Eco are the ultimate vegan eco-friendly trainers made with innovative materials like pineapple fibre, recycled plastic bottles and cork.
A pair of trainers that you’d be proud to wear every day, not just because of how great they look, but also because they stand for the things that are worth fighting for. Pictured here are the shiny silver edition, to add a bit of bling into your wardrobe, but they also come in plenty of other colours too.
BAIMS Natural Makeup is dedicated to the production of high-quality organic cosmetic products. All BAIMS products are made of 100 percent natural and vegan ingredients and are cruelty-free.
This refillable Old Rose Matte Blush has an elegant formulation with mineral pigments, natural vitamin E and high-quality oils from apricot and avocado kernel, which provide the skin with the moisture it needs for a smooth appearance. It’s the perfect way to achieve that lightly sun kissed blush look.
Taking care of our planet and our skin has never been more in! Pamoja’s award-winning ethical skincare is handmade fresh, in small batches, using only the best quality natural, organic and sustainable ingredients backed by science. It’s suitable for all skin types, but especially dry, dull and sensitive skin.
The popular 100% Natural Reset Cleansing Balm is an aromatic, effective cruelty free cleansing balm that’s packed with antioxidant vitamins and omegas, that deep clean, soothe and nourish your skin in one easy step. It melts away stubborn makeup and daily impurities, helping to clear pores and prevent breakouts.
And of course, it wouldn’t Easter without a lil’ bit of indulgence. For the botanists out there, this Lavender Dark Chocolate Bar has a unique and distinctive flavour that separates it from other species of mint. On the tongue, this lavender chocolate is as floral as it smells, very fresh and light. Very fitting for a vegan-friendly Springtime treat.
But if you prefer something a little more conventional, Chocolage has plenty of indulgent flavours to tickle your tastebuds. Explore their range of choccy treats here.
Looking for a vegan-friendly alternative to Nutella? Mindful Bites velvety smooth chocolate and hazelnut spread is full of good vibes and absolutely no nasties. 100% plant-based and palm-oil free, this tasty treat can be enjoyed on a slice of sourdough, poured over porridge or sneakily spooned straight from the recyclable jar (our fave!). Satisfy your sweet tooth and your values.
When faced with the realities of the climate crisis and the current state of the world, saving the planet can often feel like a futile mission. While we can’t deny that societal shifts are needed to reverse the impacts of human consumption, it’s the small everyday decisions that can really kickstart global change. When it comes to embarking on a sustainable journey; small changes make a big impact! So if you’re new to the world of sustainability and don’t know where to start, we’ve put together the ultimate starter pack with a collection of easy eco-friendly swaps to get you going. From market bags and shampoo bars to bamboo toothbrushes and reusable water bottles; this blog post has everything you need to lead a zero-waste, plastic-free, conscious lifestyle.
Shampoo Bars & Refills
Lather, rinse, and repeat with zero-waste shampoo bars, refills, and reusable bottles that are perfect for your bathroom.
Veo Top Pick: KIND2 The Hydrating One | Sustainable Eco-Friendly Solid Shampoo Bar
From daily walks to getting in that 5-a-day, the past two years have made all of us consider our health and wellbeing more seriously. With this in mind, it comes as no surprise that the number of people turning to meat-free diets in the UK has been on the rise. According to Finder.com, approximately 1.5 million people claimed to follow a plant-based diet in 2020, with a 40% rise in vegan diets in particular. But whether you’re flexi, veggie, pescetarian, or vegan, you can certainly reap the benefits of a diet with less meat. Some of the most common benefits of eating less meat include: better heart health, lowered blood pressure, and reduced risk of diseases such as cancer and type 2 diabetes. Here at Veo we’re all about promoting products that are healthy, kind and sustainable so our Food & Drink section (as well as everything else on our site) is 100% vegan as standard!
In honour of #WorldVegetarianDay, we’ve collaborated with Lara Sayegh from Fresh Greens Blog to bring you the most delicious, healthy stir fry recipe using organic tempeh, a fantastic meat alternative from Better Nature. Tempeh is a type of fermented food containing prebiotics that are known to promote better gut health as well as being a nutrient-rich source of protein. Stir-fries are an easy way to get started on a veggie diet, using up leftover vegetables which reduces waste while ensuring you get a wealth of nutrients with great flavour to match! Check out the recipe below!
Combine peanut sauce ingredients in a food blender, and blend until the peanut sauce is creamy smooth.
In a large wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the tempeh, and let it fry for a few minutes on each side until golden brown. When the tempeh looks crispy remove from pan and set aside on a plate.
Using the same pan, add in the cabbage and sauté over low heat until soft and tender, about 10-15 minutes. Add in the brocolli and stir for a few minutes. Then, add tempeh and add peanut sauce. Toss to coat and allow to cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Top with sesame seeds and green onion (optional). Enjoy!
Considering a veggie diet but not sure where to start? We have a fantastic range of meat alternatives right here on Veo that are healthy and nutritious but don’t miss out on the flavours you love.
