FASHTALKS WITH FRACKING DESIGN

What inspired you to name your brand?

When we think about Fracking Design, we aim to raise awareness about the issue of waste in the oil industry, and we aim to create doubt in the consumer and make them want to learn more. 

When did you know you wanted to become a designer?

Fashion and design have been my passion since I was very young. At the age of 10 I already knew how to sew, a skill I inherited from my grandmother Luli, she taught me everything. She used to travel the world and bring back fabrics to make her own dresses and suits, which I loved to watch her do. I was eager to use her sewing machine, and one day she gave it to me as a gift, allowing me to explore my own path.

What is your earliest design memory for your brand?

When I started working with discarded materials from the oil industry, I began to travel frequently to the Argentine Patagonia where fracking activities were taking place, in order to investigate and acquire discarded big bags. During these flights I encountered many people who worked in that industry. The initial designs of Fracking Design were inspired by these individuals who flew to Vaca Muerta with their backpacks, laptops, and handbags, all focused on functionality.

What made you want to design accessories out of recycled plastic?

We have been in the fashion industry for a long time. In 2009 we founded BASILOTTA, a traditional women's clothing brand, but more than 10 years ago in our industry fast fashion started to rule. We lost the author's design, handmade trades, the big brands began to make more than 35 seasons a year, casual work grew and fashion became disposable. My own brand became disposable. So I decided to visit Neuquén in Patagonia, in search of wool and natural fibers to incorporate into the winter collection of that year. On this trip we had the opportunity to visit an oil waste treatment plant. Among other waste that they received, were thousands of sandbags. When I saw them I fell in love! 

"I realized that I could address the problem and still do what I love, just in a different way."

How would you describe the style of your brand?

Our products are totally timeless because we do not believe in trends. They are genderless and unique. Because we choose to respect the original stamps of the big bags, this speaks to the traceability and origin of the material. They are all different but carry the same message of conscience consumption. Our products are intended for the LOHAS (lifestyle of health and sustainability) market. Our customers are aware of the environmental problems we are experiencing and are active through their consumption habits.

What did the beginnings of Fracking Design look like?

We were very sure that we didn't want to continue working in the traditional fashion industry, and we had all of the knowledge from 9 years of working and growing in that sector. When we discovered the big bags and realized that we could create premium products while contributing to environmental and social value, we became passionate about the idea and were confident that it would work

What is your favorite part about designing?

My favorite part is bringing the idea I have in my head to life, translating it into a drawing first, and then going through the initial stages of sampling, pattern making, and production until I achieve the final product just as I envisioned. I also love receiving lovely messages from people who have used my designs and found them functional! That brings me great satisfaction.

What was the toughest circumstance you overcame when just starting out your business?

We started Fracking Design, and within a year, the pandemic happened. In Argentina, we were unable to go to work for months, with production halted until we could resume and modify the product to sustain the business. We began making face masks and managed to sustain ourselves economically and even grow through orders from companies. Reinventing ourselves at that moment was the key to moving forward.

How important is sustainability to your brand? What sustainable measures has Fracking Design taken to better the environment?

Very important. We are a certified B Corporation, we have environmental, social and economic impact. 45 families are involved in the entire production process, and we have recycled more than 31,000 meters of plastic burlap, equivalent to 91,000 kg of CO2 emissions that we prevent from being burned. To put it into perspective, it would take 3,300 trees to absorb all this CO2 in one year. Our products are more than that, we make our values tangible through our innovations and designs. 

"We are convinced that we can transform the fashion industry. People don't have to sacrifice ethics for aesthetics anymore."

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new designer?

Today, there is no innovation in design without sustainability; we need to think differently. In addition to being creative in our designs, we must also generate an impact with them.

What has been your biggest accomplishment to date?

My greatest achievement to date is being able to make a living doing what I love so much.

What do you envision for the future of your brand?

I envision Fracking Design worldwide, in major retail stores, thereby creating more environmental and social impact.

What should customers expect to see next from Fracking Design?

Fracking Design and its designs are constantly on the move. We keep creating new products with different lines of colors for big bags and variations. We have an international growth plan, and you will likely start seeing our products in different places as we work to ensure you don't sacrifice ethics for aesthetics.