Precious Collaborative’s innovative approach to fashion has earned a $10,000 vote of confidence from Wools of Wānaka.

The clothing brand blends high quality, locally made garments with a unique business model that is helping make sustainable fashion more accessible.

At the heart of Precious Collaborative is a system that lets supporters fund the project in different ways: by buying a limited-edition coat, paying full or extra prices for garments, or even donating without taking anything themselves.

Their contributions make it possible for other customers to access high quality garments at a reduced price, helping the brand balance sustainability with affordability.

In the case of Wools of Wānaka, it made a donation without taking a garment - a decision described by owner Ann-Louise Stokes as “easy”.

“I am in awe of [designer Claire O’Connell’s] passion and commitment to natural fibres and sustainable garments,” Ann-Louise said.

The gift will help fund another production run of sold-out pinafores and shirts, cover operational costs, and support a shared exhibition space with Liz Mitchell, MNZM at the Christchurch A&P Show in November, Claire said.

It is the latest in a series of generous contributions that surpassed Claire’s expectations.

“I have now got three payments from generous supporters,” she said.

“The first one [came] from a local Wānaka person who had no idea if this would work but wanted to support the concept and help me get started; the second payment was from someone who has no idea who I am and who asked, before they even received their coat, if they could pay an extra $10,000 so they paid $20,000; and the third payment was from someone who doesn't want a coat but still wants to support.”

Claire said the support demonstrates that people are willing to support creative projects in many ways. 

“What I feel this gives Precious is the idea that there are many types of supporters of this kind of social construction out there, willing to support in many ways and for many reasons.”

PHOTO: Supplied