At a time when fashion’s environmental impact is under intense scrutiny, Farm Rio stands out not just for its colorful prints but for its deep commitment to sustainability. The ready-to-wear brand, founded in Rio de Janeiro in 1997 by Katia Barros and Marcello Bastos, is just as loved for its vibrant prints as it is for its ethical fashion. Known for its dedication to preserving the natural beauty of their homeland, Farm Rio utilizes eco-friendly materials and practices, significantly mitigating the fashion industry’s typically heavy ecological footprint.
From the start, Farm Rio has infused each collection with the joyous essence of Brazilian culture. You can see it in their use of vibrant colors, eclectic patterns, and silhouettes that dance with life. However, the core of their appeal lies in how they manage to do all this while being mindful of their environmental impact. They make conscious choices in their materials, favoring organic cotton, recycled polyester, and linen, which all have a much lower environmental footprint than traditional fabrics.
Their commitment extends well beyond the use of sustainable materials. The label partners with One Tree Planted to ensure that every purchase contributes directly to reforesting the Amazon—transforming each sale into a positive act for the planet. This initiative has led to the planting of hundreds of thousands of trees, allowing fashion lovers to make a measurable difference with their choices.
Fashion’s impact on the environment is more profound than many realize. As one of the top global polluters, the industry is ripe for a makeover. It accounts for about 10% of worldwide carbon emissions and massive energy consumption surpassing that of the aviation and shipping industries combined. This makes the need for sustainable practices more urgent than ever, and Farm Rio is at the forefront of this transformation.
In Brazil, the fast fashion industry has been linked to significant deforestation and land grabs, with major brands sometimes sourcing cotton from areas where environmental and human rights abuses have occurred. This exploitation includes extensive deforestation, land grabbing, and violence against local communities in areas like the Brazilian Cerrado, highlighting the importance of supporting brands like Farm Rio that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices.
This year, Farm Rio has expanded its global footprint by opening its first store in Dubai, marking a significant step in bringing Brazilian warmth and style to new markets while adhering to sustainable practices. This expansion is part of their broader strategy to connect with conscious consumers worldwide who are eager to support brands that prioritize both style and sustainability.
