As a 43+ year veteran of the retail industry and owner of a women’s clothing boutique, it’s never far off my radar that women designers are redefining what it means to create responsibly. These women are not only building brands that value artistry, longevity, and ethics, but they are also inspiring a movement toward mindful consumption. Among the many leading this charge are Marcia Patmos of M.Patmos and Laura Foos of UQNATU, two designers whose collections have hung in DISH for many seasons, and I believe their thoughtful approaches to sustainability are reshaping the future of fashion.
The Power of Independent Voices
Independent designers often operate outside the traditional fashion system, allowing them to make bold, values-driven decisions. They have the freedom to slow down, prioritize quality over quantity, and produce in ways that respect both people and the planet. Supporting these creators means investing in pieces with stories, purpose, and integrity—an antidote to disposable fashion.
Marcia Patmos: Timeless Design with Purpose
Miles Cable Pullover - Mineral
Marcia Patmos, founder of M.Patmos, is known for her sophisticated knitwear and minimalist aesthetic rooted in sustainability. Each collection blends luxurious craftsmanship with ethical production practices—think natural fibers, fair-trade collaborations, and timeless silhouettes that transcend seasons. Patmos’s commitment to sustainability runs deep, from small-batch manufacturing to working with artisans who uphold traditional techniques. Her work demonstrates that conscious design doesn’t mean compromising on style; it means elevating it.
Billie Hand-knit Cardigan - Fog
Laura Foos: Maker of Functional and Timeless Pieces
At UQNATU, designer Laura Foos brings a fresh perspective to sustainable fashion through beautifully crafted pieces that are accessible, durable, and purposeful. Made in very small batches and never over-producing, UQNATU works with small family-run factories using traditional, industrial sewing machines with one person making most of each garment. No mass production, instead, you may see the wobble of a stitch here and there, the tell-tale sign of an individual maker.
Why Supporting Independent Designers Matters
When you choose to support designers like Patmos and Foos, you’re doing more than purchasing a product—you’re helping to sustain creative independence, fair labor, and environmental responsibility. Every purchase becomes a vote for a slower, more intentional fashion ecosystem—one that values connection, craftsmanship, and care.
Popover Dress - Persian Green Ikat
Make Your Purchases Make Sense:
By supporting women designers and buying their sustainably made fashion, you're not just showing your style—you are contributing to the shaping of a more ethical and inclusive future for the industry. Through the vision and integrity of designers like Marcia Patmos and Laura Foos, we are reminded that true beauty begins with responsibility.