When it comes to apparel, it’s a well-established fact that the industry as a whole is messy. In fact, it’s the second most wasteful, environmentally damaging industry on the planet, next to the oil industry. LIVSN isn’t shy about its mission to stand out against the standard practices in the clothing industry, creating basics that are built to last with the best materials it can find.
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LIVSN, an Arkansas-based company, was built on the idea that owning fewer, high-quality items means fewer goods to care for and more time to explore the world. With this goal in mind, the company name comes from the Swedish word, “livsnjutare,” which roughly translates to “one who loves life deeply; an enjoyer of life.” This is a brand for people who emphasize experiences over stuff.
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This personal and corporate philosophy of minimalism takes shape in many forms within the company. The first is through precise material selection. LIVSN is dedicated to using natural and recycled materials wherever possible.
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“We have a guideline when choosing fabrics for development: Strive to utilize organic or recycled materials unless we firmly believe that by using virgin materials the product will last longer and serve its purpose better. If we can build a product that lasts twice as long, but to do it we have to use a virgin fabric, then we believe it’s the right choice to do so. By buying once and buying for life, we’re able to consume less,” the company says.
In keeping with the theme of ensuring a long product life, LIVSN offers a repair or replace program. Although articles are built to last with quality materials and additional stitching at stress points, LIVSN realizes clothing will still show wear. In response, they have one of the most comprehensive warranties in the industry. Called the Fair Deal Guarantee, the company will repair, replace or refund any purchase with a manufacturer’s defect.
When wear and tear results in needed repairs, you can send the clothing back to the company to do the work. It will make the repair and charge you at cost, without markups. If the item can’t be repaired, LIVSN will offer a significant discount on the same or similar item.
In addition to building clothes that last with responsibly-sourced materials and a repair service, LIVSN focuses on designing a limited number of essential basics that create a capsule wardrobe. Sticking with standard colors and traditional designs results in clothing that performs, is comfortable to wear and is versatile enough to wear on the trail, in the pub, or on casual Friday at work. It’s done with the idea that “Building long-lasting apparel is the most direct route to sustainable clothing because a piece that fits well, works well, and lasts longer is less likely to be thrown in the landfill.”
Rather than trying to cater to every lifestyle situation, each item is built to serve a purpose and do it well. The philosophy is to “Only create products that need to exist” and “Design for decades, not seasons.”
LIVSN also believes in corporate responsibility. As an outdoor and lifestyle brand, it sees the value in supporting the community that supports the business.
It expresses this mission of caring in a variety of ways. For example, this past Black Friday weekend LIVSN donated a percentage of proceeds from every sale to the Buffalo River Foundation, a non-profit working to protect and preserve the Buffalo River Watershed. In a press release, LIVSN remarked, “Preserving water quality, protecting natural habitats and historical sites – the foundation represents everything LIVSN stands for.”
The brand recently featured “The Well Worn Collection” in the LIVSN showroom. This is a collection of used and repaired apparel, as well as an assortment of apparel samples and prototypes. The event was in conjunction with #SecondhandSeptember and in alignment with the company’s goals to minimize landfill waste.
“This is an exciting new venture for LIVSN as a brand, and one that we believe can have a big impact down the line by improving circularity,” said LIVSN Founder and CEO, Andrew Gibbs-Dabney. “Not only are the pieces renewed – giving them a whole new life – but they’re now each a one-of-a-kind piece of art from the hands and creativity of our friends at INTERFORM. Our next step is to bring the Well Worn Collection online so more people can easily search for, find and enjoy our repaired and renewed products.”
LIVSN Flex Canvas Pants review
When the company heard I would be writing up an article about its mission and mindset, they offered a pair of pants for review. A few days later I received a pair of the flagship Flex Canvas Pants. I typically have apprehensions about mail-order clothing, specifically pants. One just never knows how they are going to fit. I’m happy to report there was no cause for concern. These pants fit perfectly in the normal size I wear.
The first thing I noticed was the durable feel of the pants. They offer a thick, canvas feel to the touch of the hand and during wear. While not stretchy, they allow ample maneuverability without restricting movement. I love the high waist that rests above the hip bone. There’s no battling an exposed backside, even while hauling wood or cleaning floors.
Packing was minimal, with a simple tie to hold the pants in rolled form and no extra bags or plastic. Similarly, the tag on the pants is made of paper and attached with natural materials.
I adore the extra little zipper pocket and the gear pockets along the backside of the leg. The main pockets are deep, providing a secure place for whatever you’re taking with you. Available in two lengths, the 30-inch hit me at the ankle (I stand 5 foot 6 inches). The cuff offers two snaps so you can adjust the tightness to create a gathered hem or leave it looser. Whatever your day of adventure holds, these pants have got you covered.
Images via LIVSN and Dawn Hammon
Editor’s Note: This product review is not sponsored. All opinions on the products and company are the author’s own.
