Today marks the launch of Nocturnal Explorers, a capsule collection of ethically made outerwear and accessories for a/w 21 by sustainable children’s clothing brand Frugi and the National Trust. Inspired by the National Trust’s ‘50 Things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities’, as well as the wildlife supported by the charity’s conservation work, Frugi has created another collection for children to explore the outdoors.
The unisex capsule collection has everything a young eco-hero will need when exploring outdoors. From a sustainable Snuggle Fleece and Frugi’s award-winning Puddle Buster Coat through to a range of accessories. Parents and older kids can also enjoy the new collection. For instance, with the new Pack a Picnic Blanket and Pack A Penny Wallet, all made from recycled plastic materials.
Like previous Frugi x National Trust collections, the print across the clothing and accessories focuses on an aspect of Britain’s wildlife.
This time, it is the turn of the animals we might miss seeing the most; those that come out at night. For example, hedgehogs, bats, snails, and glow worms. Like many species, nocturnal creatures have also come under threat and lots are now endangered or at risk. Drawing attention to the inhabitants of the night-time world and raising funds to help care for them is an important step for healthy ecosystems.
By doing a few simple things, we can all help nature thrive. For example, when was the last time you saw a hedgehog in your garden? They are shy creatures. However, you can encourage them into your garden by leaving a scruffy patch of long grass, fallen leaves and bramble.
As Europe’s largest conservation charity, the National Trust looks after coastlines, gardens, parklands, and historic houses; ensuring people and nature can thrive. A minimum of £25,000 from sales of the Nocturnal Explorers collection will go to the National Trust. This will support its crucial work to help wildlife and their habitats flourish.
Benefits of outdoor play
With Covid restrictions easing, it’s important to get kids off screens and into the outdoors once more. A recent government report found 83% of children interviewed agreed spending time outside and noticing nature and wildlife made them feel happy. Furthermore, 82% agreed they would like to do more to protect the environment. Equally, 78% said that protecting the environment was important to them.
All studies show children who play outside are healthier because of the additional exercise. They are also more attentive, confident, and less anxious than children who spend more time indoors. The unstructured outdoor environment allows children to be more inventive, think more freely and design their own activities, which promotes creativity and imagination.
Outdoor play also teaches responsibility. Knowing that wildlife and plants die when mistreated; learning never to pull a flower out by the roots, or forgetting to water a plant is a good way to start.
Frugi: Ethical and sustainable clothing for children
Frugi uses only GOTS Certified organic cotton for 85% of its childrenswear for 0-10 years. This strict certification by the Soil Association means Frugi’s clothes use organic fibres that meet rigorous production standards throughout the entire supply chain.
Organic cotton clothing is not only better for the environment by using less water, it also feels softer. This is because the fibres are left intact and aren’t broken down by the harsh chemicals used in the processing of conventional cotton. In addition, because there are no harmful chemicals or dangerous dyes, organic cotton is less likely to trigger allergies. Organic cotton is also more durable and lasts longer, enabling the clothes to be handed down.
The remaining 15% of Frugi products are made by turning old polyethylene (PET) plastic bottles into a form of polyester. This is then recycled and spun into yarn to make a durable, waterproof fabric for Frugi’s outerwear and accessories. Knowing 90% of seabirds have plastic in their stomachs and there are 159 plastic bottles for every mile of beach in the UK, the Puddle Buster Coat, Adventurers Backpack, Pack-A-Snack Lunch Bag, Crafty Pencil Case and Pack A Penny Wallet are sustainable choices for young explorers.
Commenting is Clare Brown, head of brand licensing and retailer development.
“I’m so excited by this collection and the fact it shines a light on some of the perhaps overlooked animals that come out after dark. Many are endangered and need our support to secure their future. This collection helps do both those things. Featuring hedgehogs and bats in the designs as well as raising vital income from each sale, which will help continue to care for nature, beauty, and history for everyone, forever.”
Head of marketing, Lara Smrtnik, concludes; “We are thrilled to be launching yet another exciting collection with the National Trust. This ongoing collaboration is a perfect synergy of our shared core values; encouraging the next generation to help look after our woodlands and wildlife for many years to come.”
The Nocturnal Explorers collection is available via Frugi and the National Trust Shop online.
