The higher the quality of a garment, the longer it is likely to be used. And the longer a garment is used, the lesser its impact on the environment over the course of its lifespan. Enter Fristads’ classics, a range of garments that combine high-quality materials with designs that stand the test of time, making them a sustainable choice in the long run. “Comfort, thought-out functions and a timeless design are the hallmarks of a classic Fristads garment,” says Anastasios Lappas, Head of Design and Innovation at Fristads. “We have quite a few products that have been in our range for many, many years, for example some of our FAS craftsman trousers. Their popularity remains thanks to the durable material and functional features. They are great, basic trousers for craftsmen.”
Design and material key to longevity
The quality of the material is key to how long a garment lasts, but the design can affect the longevity as well. A garment that fits well and has a classic design is less likely to be discarded prematurely by the user, than one that quickly goes out of style. At the same time, workwear must evolve to reflect the changing needs of the users and changes in society. While the characteristic designs of Fristads’ classics are largely preserved and unaffected by short-lived trends, some older garments, like Fristads’ signature FAS cotton trousers, have generated upgraded versions that have become classics in their own right. These garments retain the same key functions that have proven useful for generations of workers but have been tweaked slightly when it comes to material choices.
Comfortable cotton
“Our newer FAS G trousers have a more modern fit and more advanced materials, like stretch. Thanks to the stretch material, we can make a garment that has a snugger fit but still retains the freedom of movement,” says Anastasios Lappas. “We have also added a mobile phone pocket and several levels of knee pockets, a safety detail that is now required.”Designing long-lasting garments also requires keen attention to material choices. Some materials are more durable than others and the designers at Fristads are careful to select the most suitable material for the job. Many of the classics are made of cotton or cotton blends, materials that are not only durable, but often are perceived as becoming more comfortable over time. As a result, they are favoured and worn by users for many years. The longer a user delays purchasing a new garment, the lesser the impact on the environment and the greater the cost savings for the user.
The versatile pile jacket
Versatility is another factor that can make a garment a more sustainable choice, since crossover functionality can reduce the number of clothes needed in a user’s wardrobe. Fristads’ classic pile jacket 762P is one example of a garment that is frequently used both at work and at home. It is also Anastasios Lappas’ personal favourite out of all Fristads’ classics.“A great advantage of the pile jacket is that it can be combined with other garments, such as shell jackets, almost indefinitely. The fit has also been modernised, making it even more useful than before while retaining its timeless quality.”
