46. “Reimagining Fashion: Creating Socially & Environmentally Responsible Apparel” with Nicole Broesch, Fern+Daisy
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Welcome to episode 46 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast, today I’m delighted to be joined in conversation by Nicole Broesch, a fashion designer and the founder of Fern+Daisy, based in Appalachia in the USA.
I absolutely loved meeting Nicole and I’m so grateful I get to share her with you all, as she has such a beautiful vision to create hope and be a responsible steward of both Mother Nature and her community.
Her experience within the large brand fast fashion industry, left her grappling with the disconnect between her desire for sustainability at both an environmental and social level and the detrimental impacts of the industry she loved. Determined to find a better way she launched her own ethical clothing brand which makes some truly beautiful garments, designed to last so they can be cherished for years.
Whilst discussing some of the difficulties within the fashion industry, including the huge amount of waste throughout the supply chain, Nicole offered some fantastic and easy steps we can all consider as consumers to help reduce the environmental impact of fashion. From explaining some of the more sustainable textiles and fibres that the clothes we buy can be made from, to some easy tips for caring for your existing clothes that can help increase their longevity.
Woven through our conversation and into the DNA of her business is Nicole’s deep connection to Appalachia and the hardships the communities here have faced, including the more recent impacts from Opioids. She is committed to supporting her community and is a beautiful reminder to us all to lay down our judgement, step into compassion and find ways to uplift those around us.
Learn more about Nicole:
Nicole Riggs Broesch, founder and designer of fern+daisy, weaves her passion for ethical fashion and community upliftment into every garment. With an eight year career in apparel design as a small town girl from rural Central Appalachia America, she has merged her love for her community, the planet, fashion, and marginalized women.
Fern+daisy, born in 2020, creates sustainably made pieces that empower both wearers and makers, reviving ethical practices with timeless style. Inspired by her grandmothers, Mamaw Fern and Mamaw Daisy, Nicole honors their legacy in every creation. Finally back in the mountains of Tennessee, she finds solace in slow mornings, coffee on the porch, and outdoor adventures. As an artist, mentor, and nature enthusiast, Nicole embodies the spirit of fern+daisy—where style meets purpose.
Website: https://www.fernanddaisy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fernanddaisy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fernanddaisy/
Supporting Community: https://www.fernanddaisy.com/pinnacle-pledge
Learn about Linen: https://www.fernanddaisy.com/post/linen-fabric
Care For Your Clothes: https://www.fernanddaisy.com/post/extend-the-life-of-your-wardrobe-the-clothing-care-handbook
Other Useful Links:
Nurtured By Nature Podcast Episode 24: Empowering Consumers to buy products that are healthier for them and the planet: https://fionamackayphotography.com/2023/10/24-empowering-consumers-to-buy-products-that-are-healthier-for-them-and-the-planet-with-jessica-brennan-clean-product-junkie/
Thank you for being a part of this journey with me.
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