Karen Walker and Outland Denim have joined forces again and we just had to share!
It’s the second collaboration, with the first, being a sell-out, in 2019. Since that first collab Karen Walker’s own-brand denim has been manufactured by Outland’s production house. If you want to know why we think that is epic, read on.
Walker describes the latest Karen Walker X Outland Denim release as a happy take on wardrobe staples with a curated selection of denim that embodies sustainable and socially responsible production.
And while denim is always in vogue and enduringly timeless, it’s currently trending with not just jeans but also shirts, skirts, dresses and jackets. So if you’re thinking about investing in a style staple this season, consider denim.
The seven-piece collection revisits quintessential Karen Walker silhouettes, the much-loved Aeronautical jumpsuit, straight-leg and flared jeans, the even more flared Duster Jeans, and a utility-inspired shirt.
Available in both dark indigo and washed denim, the range offers timeless appeal and that distinctive Karen Walker optimism and joy.
“This collection is threaded together by the shared ethos of both our brands and our communities: mindful consumption and making purposeful choices,” says Karen. “Each piece represents both brands’ dedication to creating pieces that our customers can feel proud about investing in and will enjoy for many years.”
The collection’s fabrics underscore a commitment to environmental responsibility. The denim is composed of lyocell, recycled, and organic cotton, balancing comfort with sustainability.
Traceable to Turkish farms, the organic cotton is harvested without harmful agrochemicals, helping to protect soil quality and farmer health. The lyocell, also from Türkiye, is derived from renewable resources and manufactured in a closed-loop system, reducing ecological impact. Together, these materials form a premium denim that is both environmentally sound and soft to the touch.
The collection has been produced in Outland’s own facility in Cambodia, employing cutting-edge water and energy-saving technology by Jeanologia, which allows the brand to further minimise its environmental impact and stand as a leader in responsible fashion.
If Outland Denim is new to you, let us provide a proper an introduction.
The Certified B Corporation, Outland Denim was established by James Bartle in 2011, driven by the purpose of providing training and employment to young women who had been enslaved or exploited. You can read more about that here.
Outland Denim’s production facility in Cambodia has since expanded its support to include a wider spectrum of women in vulnerable circumstances, such as those leaving exploitative garment factory conditions, women with disabilities, and those who have been trafficked for labour.
Outland Denim also champions employee growth through educational and advancement initiatives, offering a living wage and structured career progression.
“Our approach differs from traditional garment manufacturing. We ensure that our seamstresses become well-versed in all aspects of jean-making,” says James Bartle. “Within about two years, our trainees engage in an extensive cross-training programme, learning the intricacies of cutting, finishing, and sewing, which equips them with the knowledge and skills to potentially advance to managerial positions.”
So the reason we’re so excited about this collection is that each piece in the Outland Denim x Karen Walker collection is a testament to the power of conscious fashion. They not only minimise harm to the planet but also empower the artisans who create them.
You can take pride in wearing denim that not only looks great and wears beautifully over time but also contributes positively to the community and the environment.
