Behind the Scenes: Creating a Sustainable Fashion Collection
When my sister Kristine and I started The Disco Dolls Designs 14 years ago, we had a vision—a strong ethical commitment to sustainable fashion that continues to guide every piece we create. From day one, sustainability was non-negotiable, and we began by crafting each collection from 100% upcycled materials and fabrics. The process was exhilarating yet challenging, as we navigated the fashion world while holding firm to our values. Each new collection helped us refine what worked, what didn’t, and what truly resonated with us as creators and ethical designers.
A turning point came when we were searching for a sustainable clothing line that met all our needs. We quickly realized that most of what was available fell short of our standards. That frustration sparked the idea behind The Uniform Project. I needed pieces that could move with me through my day—whether I was scrubbing the floors in the morning or attending a cocktail party at night, often in the same day! The solution was a capsule collection of timeless staples—versatile enough to be styled differently, durable enough to be worn repeatedly, and comfortable enough for the busiest of business owners.
To us, sustainable fashion has three key pillars:
Fair Labor – It’s critical to ensure that every person involved in the creation of our garments is paid fairly for their work. Ethical fashion must begin with fair wages and responsible working conditions.
Eco-Friendly Fabrics – After extensive research, wear testing, and trial and error, we landed on bamboo as our fabric of choice. While no material is perfect, bamboo stands out for its low environmental impact, rapid renewability, and superior qualities. The fabric is soft, breathable, antibacterial, and antimicrobial, meaning it requires less washing, making it healthier for both us and the planet. It drapes beautifully, resembling silk jersey, and outperformed other fabrics in wear tests, holding up to over 100 wears when cared for properly.
Durability and Longevity – Durability is essential not only in terms of fabric but also in design. We focus on creating classic, timeless pieces that won’t go out of style after a season. Our clothing is designed to be worn and loved for years, and when you invest in one of our pieces, you’re buying something that will stand the test of time.
While The Uniform Project exemplifies these pillars, our commitment to one-of-a-kind fashion remains. In our in-house studio—The Imaginarium—we continue to create unique garments from upcycled and recycled materials. These pieces reflect our artistic expression, offering bold, whimsical designs that are just as sustainable as our everyday staples.
Interested in the Uniform Project? Make an appointment with me to try it on or if you are not in Tampa shop online. Also next time you’re in the shop, take a peek into The Imaginarium for a glimpse of our one-of-a-kind creations and witness firsthand the passion and creativity that goes into every stitch. Sustainable fashion is more than a trend for us—it’s a lifestyle, a commitment, and a promise that our clothing is made with care for both people and the planet.
-Leigh Anne Balzekas
