This article was written by Marie-Caroline Claeys
Buying local is not a trivial act: it's a true way of life. In a context marked by major political, economic, and environmental challenges, sourcing from local businesses is more crucial than ever. While this issue touches on many aspects and sectors of our daily lives, it reminds us that every choice we make has the power to shape our communities, our environment, and our shared future.
First, it's important to emphasize that the clothing industry is often criticized for its environmental impact. Considered one of the world's most polluting industries, fashion is responsible for a large share of global waste, water and air pollution, and the depletion of natural resources. All of these facts underscore the urgent need to adopt more sustainable practices and make informed consumer choices.
While this responsibility lies with both manufacturers and consumers, change begins with our everyday actions. It is essential to consume less, but better!
Furthermore, current political and economic relations between the United States and Canada have revealed several weaknesses in our economic system. Recent statements by the American president regarding new tax and tariff rules have highlighted our heavy reliance on our southern neighbors. Just as the pandemic has revived interest in buying local , it is time to build on this momentum and actively support local production. This would allow us to reduce import costs, better manage our resources, and become less vulnerable to the vagaries of international trade.
Transparency and authenticity are two essential values—yet increasingly rare in our current consumer system. In a society that demands more and more, faster and faster, strategic choices are too often made at the expense of quality. The massive importation of textiles, primarily from Asia, forces large chains to rely on a model with serious environmental and ethical consequences. Buying your clothes from companies that produce locally means actively supporting the local economy while choosing values that positively shape our collective future.
For nearly 20 years, Mélissa Bolduc has chosen to design and produce her clothing ethically in Montreal, bucking the trend of practices that fuel the vicious cycle of fast fashion. Knowing where the clothes we wear come from is essential. That's why we're proud to choose quality materials every day, prioritize Canadian fabrics whenever possible, and make our garments in Montreal.
Our pieces are designed to stand the test of time—not only through their design, but above all through their quality. By producing approximately 75% of each collection in our Montreal workshop, we ensure a high level of craftsmanship while providing optimal working conditions for our team. The remaining 25% is also produced in Montreal, in partner workshops that handle models requiring specialized equipment or processes.
It is thanks to the dedicated work of our four talented seamstresses that we can accomplish our mission: to create clothes that reflect who you are, embody authentic craftsmanship and celebrate the diversity of body shapes.
With each collection, we strive to create distinctively designed clothing, created so that every woman—regardless of her figure—can feel a connection to it. This commitment sets us apart from a toxic system where trends come and go without giving us time to appreciate them. At Melow, we value slow fashion, encouraging more ethical consumption and a circular economy.
Supporting local fashion designers isn't just an economic or environmental choice; it's also about building connections between designers and consumers. Fostering a sense of community is at the heart of our mission. At Melow, we're committed to welcoming you to our boutique, offering advice, and taking the time to chat, because we believe that a great collaboration begins with genuine communication. Ultimately, your satisfaction is our top priority.
In our new boutique, we are proud to showcase the work of other Montreal creators through carefully selected partnerships. Building strong relationships with other businesses is fundamental to us—we sincerely believe that collaboration, based on authenticity and solidarity, is key. This commitment first materialized with the introduction of ADÉ, a line of handmade jewelry from Montreal, followed by the arrival of Veinage, a leather goods brand made from reclaimed wood and textiles—also designed here—not to mention Darling of Denmark, BKIND, Belinclay, Lidia, and other local creators to come.
Building connections between creators strengthens an often fragile ecosystem. By supporting each other, we foster a shared vision of a more sustainable, more humane fashion industry.
So if you're looking for unique pieces, crafted with care and conviction — come visit us in store or explore our online shop. Together, let's change the way we consume.