HOW IT'S MADE

MADE IN NEW YORK

When COVID-19 came on the scene, we lasted one month before seriously questioning if we'd make it through.  Nepal was on a complete lock down.  We were nearly sold out of inventory, money was not coming in, and we felt a responsibility to continue to pay the seamstresses in Nepal. 

Thankfully, before starting Elegantees, our Founder had a career in the New York Garment District. She worked as a Production Manager for a domestic fashion brand, so reconnected locally to make a production pivot. As Nepal’s lockdown extended, Elegantees was saved through the new styles made in New York. The families we support were sustained.

 

 

POST-COVID PRODUCTION

Even though we're reopened in Nepal today, we continue to make some designs in New York City.  Our design vision for each collection sometimes require prints, fabrics, and machines that are not accessible in Nepal. 

 

 

The main factory we work with in New York City is located in Queens, and it employs some amazing people.  We value our relationship with the factory owner and appreciate how she is always looking out for the best interests of her staff.  They are like family, working together for decades.

 

STILL NEXT:
THE WAITING LIST IN NEPAL

For nearly a decade, we created our designs exclusively in Nepal with the realization that every tee sewn will create jobs.  Today, we are giving additional work to New York, but see it as a way to increase our profitability.  For example, we know that super soft sweater knit cardigans sell like hot cakes, but can only be sourced in the States.  Since we can make them ethically, why not make and sell them?  More profits help expedite our growth track in Nepal toward the second factory.

All in all, we are grateful for the provision, year after year. We continue to work toward and hope for the eradication of human trafficking.