Nudea is setting a new benchmark for sustainability in the fashion industry. It is a fast-growing online sleepwear and lingerie startup. It is using 90% natural and recycled fabrics.
The startup was founded in 2019 and since then has taken significant steps to minimize environmental impact. It started auditing its supply chain emissions in 2020. It has eliminated plastic from its packaging and thereafter launched a bra recycling program. Nudea ensured two years later that 90% of the materials in its products come from natural or recycled fabrics. The figure was 55% in 2021.
Nudea CEO Priya Downes has a background in luxury fashion with brands like Burberry and Chanel. Her startup mainly focuses on product innovation and sustainability. The commitment of Nudea is further evident by its B Corp certification.
Nudea has seen impressive business growth and has achieved nearly 200% revenue growth in 2023. It has raised about $2 million in investment and it includes equity crowdfunding round funding. It reduced use of virgin fabrics and partnered with sustainable delivery services like Urb-It.
Nudea focused on addressing the carbon footprint associated with product distribution and customer deliveries in 2023. It has also taken further steps to educate customers and offered bra wash bags to extend product life as well as encourage participation in its bra recycling program.
Nudea has been purchasing carbon credits since 2020. The company chose to support local energy efficiency projects near its headquarters in Buckinghamshire in 2024. It aimed to reduce emissions as well as energy costs for nearby residents.
The approach of Nudea to embed sustainability into its business model offers a strong example for other startups in the fashion industry.
