- Entrepreneurs want to see a return to ‘used clothes’ with sustainable clothing
Cork sisters Orla and Aoife Lynch launched Firkail, a lifestyle brand selling clothing and accessories made from 100% organic hemp cotton. The siblings were inspired to start the business after growing tired of the disposable world of fast fashion and how the planet and our pockets are suffering.
Kinsale-based Firkail sells women’s and men’s products designed for everyday living. Materials made from hemp cotton are soft, durable, fully biodegradable and hypoallergenic.
The product, which requires 50% less water than cotton and consumes more carbon than trees, is pesticide-free and ethically sourced. Hemp also offers natural protection against UV rays, which is good news for our skin. The company is already in talks with farmers in South West Ireland who want to grow the plant locally.
Orla Lynch says Firkail’s ethos is tied to the sisters’ long-held beliefs as consumers: “Growing up we were always taught to respect and care for our planet and to buy Irish. We wanted to create everyday stylish objects that were durable, kind and could be shared between generations. Hemp has so many sustainable qualities and requires much more sustainable processes to make clothes.
Aoife Lynch added that they are really excited to launch a product that is both stylish and ethical: “Firkail is the warm hemp hug you didn’t know you needed. We’ve created a really accessible range of everyday wear like white tees, hoodies and jumpers. Hemp washes very well, so you’ll save money in the long run with our products.
All Firkail products come in recycled packaging and are internationally approved for responsible manufacturing. The products are available through the website, firkail.ie and the company plans to hold a pop-up event in Kinsale in the near future.
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