Ducky Zebra is a new sustainable kids’ clothing brand launching with a mission to take on the high street and overturn dated gender stereotypes. Through its colourful, sustainable clothing, the company aims to inspire kindness and confidence in children aged 0–6 years; no matter what their gender.
Ducky Zebra was founded by Oxford-based mum-of-two, Sally Dear, in response to a growing wave of frustration with gender stereotypes across the high street. She wanted to create happy, colourful clothes that celebrate kindness and confidence. This is a brand that puts climbing and adventure above looks and beauty. For example, shorts that aren’t too short, tops without itchy frills and clothes with pockets to store away life’s treasures.
Ducky Zebra’s unisex designs are free from gender stereotypes.
However, rather than sticking to muted tones, the company’s clothing is fun and colourful with child-approved designs. Pieces show characters working together, playing together and being kind towards one another. All items also include an embroidered splash motif, often hidden inside a pocket, as a reminder to be kind and confident even at times when this might be hard.
Commenting on the brand is founder Sally Dear. “When I was buying clothing for my children, all I could find was pinks, pastel colours and cute pretty images for girls. And sludgy blues, greys and aggressive, teeth-baring predators for boys.
“For one half of the population, there’s a focus on looks, beauty and kindness. And for the other half, there’s a focus on dominance, action and confidence. Why can’t girls be confident and boys be kind? I wanted my kids to wear items that inspire both these positive characteristics, while also being kind to the planet.”
After doing more research, Dear discovered she wasn’t alone.
Over 80% of parents and carers she spoke to were happy to buy unisex clothing to avoid gender stereotypes. However, only 6% of parents said their kids wanted to wear unisex clothing because of the poor choice and dull items on offer.
Dear continues; “I don’t believe gender-neutral should mean dull and boring and I’m proving it with the launch of Ducky Zebra. Children have been involved with our design process from the very start to ensure we create fun, colourful clothes that kids want to wear.”
Ducky Zebra designs its items to last. For instance, the company uses high-quality fabric, has generous sizing, and includes features like turn-up cuffs to accommodate a child’s growth. Its timeless designs also mean the clothing can be passed onto siblings and friends, regardless of gender or season.
Ducky Zebra also has a strong focus on sustainability.
For this reason, the brand’s items are made from GOTS certified organic cotton by a small GOTS-certified, family-run factory in India that is passionate about sustainability and ensures safe conditions for its workers. The factory harvests rainwater and recycles wastewater. Plus, half its energy comes from solar power, with steps in place to increase this to 85%.
Furthermore, fabric ends either go to charity for reuse or to the mills to make recycled yarn. Fabric is digitally printed too, which uses less water, less energy and less ink than screen printing. Greeting cards and packaging are also recyclable and reusable.
Ducky Zebra’s Pre-loved programme.
The company’s pre-loved programme allows customers to return old Ducky Zebra clothing. The brand then passes these items on to the Oxford Baby Bank. In exchange and as a thank you, customers receive 15% off their next purchase. Plus, £1 is donated to charity for every item of clothing purchased, with funds going to Chance UK. The charity’s vision is for every child in the UK to feel happy about themselves, realise their potential, and be confident in their ability to build a brighter future.
Dear concludes; “It’s been a long journey and I’ve learned so much already – particularly with the pandemic causing delays and challenges – but I’m so excited to finally launch.”
For further information on Ducky Zebra, please click here.
