Louth Sisters Showcase Sustainable Fashion at National Ploughing Championships

Style Ignite Studio, a sustainable clothing business launched in 2021 by sisters Jane and Ruth Flanagan from Tullyallen, will represent Louth at this year’s National Ploughing Championships. The sisters, who have backgrounds in design for Dunnes Stores and visual merchandising for Harrods of London, will be showcasing their ethically sourced and beautifully crafted garments in the Local Enterprise Village at the event, which takes place from 17-19 September in Ratheniska, Co. Laois.

The Local Enterprise Village is a dedicated space for small businesses to exhibit their products and services to the large crowds that attend the National Ploughing Championships. This year, over 30 small businesses will be participating in the village, which is organized by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices across Ireland.

Sustainability at the Forefront

Jane and Ruth’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their choice of materials and production processes. They use 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, which is grown without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or genetic engineering. This fabric is also produced using 90% less water than traditional cotton production methods.

“We both love fashion but we noticed that there were a lot of synthetic fabrics available in stores,” explains Jane. “We wanted to develop a clothing line made from sustainable materials. We started with knitwear, because Irish people always need warm clothing, and because we knew we could create something beautiful, and sustainable. Put simply, our mission is to make a positive impact on both the environment and our community, and we’re proud to offer a sustainable experience for the greater good.”

Ruth adds, “We craft our knitwear and shirts using 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton. This fabric is a sustainable alternative to conventional cotton, grown without synthetic fertilisers, pesticides, or genetic engineering. The production process uses 90% less water compared to traditional methods. At Style Ignite Studio, we believe organic cotton is the fabric of the future, and are thrilled to showcase our offering online (www.StyleIgniteStudio.com) and at the National Ploughing Championships 2024.”

A Perfect Fit

Sarah Mallon, from Local Enterprise Office Louth, explains that Style Ignite Studio is a perfect fit for the Local Enterprise Village. “While the National Ploughing Championships are famous for the skill of the plough masters, the event also hosts an enormous trade show,” she says. “Each year, the 31 Local Enterprise Offices join forces to create the Local Enterprise Village, where we present the best of local products. Jane and Ruth’s dedication to sustainability and quality makes their business a perfect fit. Their ethically sourced materials and beautifully crafted garments are sure to appeal to the Ploughing audience.”

An Opportunity to Shine

The National Ploughing Championships are a major event in the Irish calendar, attracting over 300,000 visitors each year. For Jane and Ruth, the event presents a valuable opportunity to showcase their brand to a wide audience and to connect with potential customers.

“We are so excited to showcase our gorgeous products and sustainable ethos to the huge National Ploughing Championships audience!” says Jane.

The Future of Fashion

As consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of the fashion industry, sustainable clothing brands like Style Ignite Studio are gaining popularity. The sisters’ commitment to sustainability and their dedication to creating high-quality, stylish garments is sure to resonate with the environmentally conscious shoppers at the National Ploughing Championships.

The Local Enterprise Village will be a hub of activity throughout the event, with a variety of businesses showcasing their products and services. For those attending the National Ploughing Championships, be sure to visit the Local Enterprise Village to meet Jane and Ruth from Style Ignite Studio and learn more about their sustainable clothing line.

With their passion for fashion and commitment to sustainability, Jane and Ruth are poised to make a positive impact on the fashion industry. Their participation in the National Ploughing Championships is a testament to their dedication to their craft and their belief in the power of sustainable fashion.