Lucille Chi
Bamboo is on the rise as a fast growing, biodegradable, anti-bacterial, and versatile fiber. Here at FGS we understand that the new (and booming) bamboo industry may not involve the most sustainable cloth treatment processes, yet we believe in recognizing those that are doing their best to create better manufacturing practices.
Oxygen Required is a new bamboo clothing brand that has a good understanding of bamboo fiber benefits and working toward sustainable manufacturing: 
Oxygen Required utilizes factory surplus fabrics in our efforts to create sustainable garments. As these excess materials are often left behind from manufacturer’s production, they provide a wonderful option to reduce waste and consume less. Our factories are ITS certified; adhering to stringent human rights and environmental standards, they facilitate the production of our collections from yarn to finished garments.
As the worlds fastest growing plant, bamboo is harvested in less than three years and offers a renewable, biodegradable and sustainable source for fabric. The fibers contain an agent called “bamboo kun”, which prevents the cultivation of bacteria, resulting in odor free clothing. As the fibers are porous, the resulting apparel is also absorbent and evaporates moisture from the skin.
I recently had the chance to interview O.R. creators Vivian Fang and Karen Young asking:
- Where do you source the bamboo from? Our bamboo fibers/ yarns are sourced from Taiwan. The fabrics are then knitted/ spun at our factories.
- How did you come up with the name of the brand? Oxygen Required is a simple name with a strong statement. Sustainable clothing is all about giving back; whether utilizing fabrics that use less resources or in our case fabric that returns back to its source. We all know that oxygen is required for life, and at the end of its cycle our clothing gives back to life. We chose to work with bamboo because it’s a sustainable material; not only does it replenish quickly, it is also 100% biodegradable. It’s a subtle way of informing customers and allowing them to give something back.
- What inspired the creation & creative branding of Oxygen Required? Oxygen was created for the fashionably active woman. It was our intention to create an accessible eco-friendly collection that catered to the average woman; the busy mom, the yoga student, the weekend warrior. We began with a fitness oriented collection and added more sophisticated, fashion forward pieces as it developed. The properties of bamboo (wicking, thermalregulating) are perfect for the woman on the go. The collection has evolved to become everyday wear with a subtle message of sustainability and change in every piece.
- What is your favorite style this season, and what is the inspiration? We have a few but think we’ll have to go with the blue tube dress. It features removable straps so it can be worn as a beach cover up or just a great summer dress. This piece was inspired by our overall intention for Oxygen Required; simple, sophisticated items that are transitional. This will look just as great fresh out of a suitcase as it will paired with a little jacket and heels.
