Meet the Founder
Beautiful clothes without compromise.
Our Founder
With more than 20 years of experience as a fashion designer, our founder Emma Shaw grew increasingly alarmed by the overconsumption and waste generated by the fashion industry. Despite working for many well-known brands, Emma knew that there had to be a better way. She became convinced that a more sustainable approach to fashion was not only possible but necessary.
The Beginning
"During the sabbatical summer, after spending 20 years working in the fashion industry, I had a lightbulb moment. It was the summer of endless sand, and I was having fun with my kids, finding adventures, and playing in the waves. However, I started to think about what's next for me. I still loved designing and making clothes, but I didn't like the compromises that often came with it. I wanted my next chapter to be more personal and reflective of my values.
I wanted to find a better way to create clothes that didn't compromise on design, quality, and the environment. That's why I decided to go back to my beginnings - my love of UK factories, well-considered design, and extending the life of the worn. I wanted to find my community of like-minded people who shared my values for fashion and ethics.
I’m taking that leap of faith and following my passion.
So here it is - my idea - The Well Worn.
Beautiful clothes without compromise.
No landfill - no waste - no compromise.
Made in the UK.
I decided to follow my dream. Wish me luck!
Emma x "
What's in a name?
"Our name, The Well Worn, is a play on words that we carefully crafted and we thought long and hard about each word.
'The' is our community and refers to the like-minded people who share our values for fashion and ethics."
'Well' signifies positivity, fun, and sustainability,
'Worn' signifies our commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable and ethical items that will become future treasures."