Equillibrium: Beyond the Runway

As all life is breathing, so is this brand since born in 2000. It has crawled to a walk, graduated high school, and been schooled in the college of fashion. Equillibrium is a 21yr old sustainable street brand now old enough to drink.

https://www.equillibrium.com/collections/all Equillibrium Denver, CO est.2000

Equillibrium’s founder has been working hard the past few years beyond the runway. A restorative and regenerative work to contribute toward sustainability for generations to come through the shared love of fashion and wolves.

https://wildearthguardians.org/ Image by Wild Earth Gardians

We’d like to introduce a series of randomly posted updates through mixed media of blog/ video/ images titled Equillibrium: Beyond the Runway. New posts on our website will be announced through our social networks. We have a rich history that ties everything back in full cirlce to what we do now… circularity not only in our best practices for sustainability, but in our creative Manna, life force energy.

Being conscious and walking with integrity leads our journey to pioneer onto to new ground and grow. The Equillibrium: Beyond the Runway Series will invite you on our journey and offer ways to become a part.

Stay tuned….

Take-aways in Pandemic Times…

It has sure been a minute since writing a blog, but something rang out today that needed to be heard in my thoughts… I am writing first person, not what I usually do but my main reference on this blog is my thoughts and my gut that are directly connected to my education and experiences. What I apply to sustainable fashion from my training and education in Environmental Health is what makes me good at what I do.  Studying human health and the environment has been very beneficial in applying sustainable practices running Equillibrium.  After all context defined by education drives all of our human behaviors. Why education for all is essential to get the best outcome in society for the whole.

I’d like to sound off about take away I hope most can get from this Covid19 Pandemic.  How preventable the spread of this to a pandemic level this could have been.  If good leadership addressed the news immediately, with all scientific methodologies adhered to, at the time of an outbreak many may not have lost their lives from it.  It is not that contracting this isn’t preventable. It is more that no reasons are given for precautions to take, so behaviors that spread the virus continue and some take it to a personal level of infringing on rights.  Please take note the cost we all pay for politicizing a global human health crisis.  A cohesive message rooted in scientific fact providing context would be encouraging for driving good human behavior… unfortunatley the U.S. has been provided anything but by someone who likes to play Dictator in a Domocracy.

Further, good hyiegenic practices and proper hand washing is essential for human health.  This is not new, and if you hadn’t practiced sanitation before like this, better late than never.  Keep it up all your life.

 

Pay attention to the function, not “flare”, of your PPE (Personal Protection Equipment).  An expample of a human health designed reusable face mask is the one for Equillibrium.

Equillibrium Reusable Face Mask

The textiles are organic hemp and organic cotton (so natural, pesticide free, and anti-bacterial/anti-fungal).  The natural fibers in the textile I chose breath and becuase of the hemp, does not collect or grow bacteria and mold.  You are breathing your own air over and over in a face mask, so this matters.  Further, my seams are dammed, so the outside cover stitch is covered by the inner layers.  This is because we must be minful to not compromise the mask integrity with uneccessary perferations or surfaces from embelishments and adornments.  Those are extra surfaces for whatever is in the air to stick to and grow on.  They are also likely hard to clean as well. The sides of the mask are open to insert paper filter material of choice. Anything can be better than nothing in dense public spaces.  The fabric will help cover a cough, but it will not keep out this virus. You need a filter with the proper microns of protection for that.  To extend the life of the mask, the elastic is replaceable… the face mask can become a tie mask if preferred as well.  Important for the design to be customizeable to the wearer’s needs and preference.

I’d also like to hightlight a big positive coming out of this. That is the fact that airlines, grocery stores, and all public spaces have brought their sanitation practices up to a high standard that benefits us all (and should have been in place already). Again, “better late than never”.  Know you are responsible for your own health and choices.  Be smart, be as cautious as you need to for comfort and be extra cautious if you are high risk… stay safe, well, and strong.

 

 

Equillibrium’s 2019 Year in Review

Equillibrium SK8 Heart

Before we do a year in review, Equillibrium would like to thank you for your support! Because of all our customers who purchased from us in 2019, we were able to make donations to the following causes and organizations: Environmental non-profits– Western Environmental Law Center, Environmental Defense Fund and the Southern Plains Land Trust  , Wolf Activism non-profit Sanctuaries- Mission Wolf, W.O.L.F. , and Animal Rights non-profits- PETA. 2019’s contributions broke down as follows…

64% to Environmental Non-Proft Organizations

30% to Wolf Activism Non-profit Sanctuaries

6% to Animal Rights Non-Profit Organizations

We could not have seeded what we want to see in the world in this way with out you.   You are proof you don’t have to give up being kool and fashionable for being sustainable. Equillibrium is a brand to be proud to wear. It shows you live it, love it, and wear your heart on your sleeve… all expressed through fashion.

Some other highlights of the year were the opportunities to work in collaboration with other artists… it is always great to see good work by all involved. I’d say the finale event for 2019 was our runway segment at Denver Fashion Week this past November.

Equillibrium Mother Earth Look at DFW// Photo: Robins Photography

It was truly an enjoyable experience to work with Scott Lobben and his team at Rita B Salon. We hope for there to be more runway collaborations in the future! Our segment “FOREVER with the Wild” was a voice for the voiceless on the runway to educate consumers by saying very little… it was inspirational and therapeutic to express the message of today’s ugly environmental species & climate crisis in a beautiful way. That is why Equillibrium uses the runway and fashion as a platform for awareness.  Fashion is a way to express ourselves. Our messaging on the runway speaks volumes for those willing to hear…

Equillibrium Snow Leopard at DFW2019 Photo: Robins Photography

We are optimistic regarding the Trademark Infringement by Gucci. So far, from our research, we have not seen any merchandise using our Trademarks. It is our impression, our TM protections have stopped Gucci from marketing and selling anything with Equilibrium on it. They promised not to make goods for sale with and we are keeping watch to make sure their promise is kept.

In other news, our CEO has been hired onto the Fashion Design Faculty at Rocky Mountain College of Art+Design. Deb Henriksen, LEED AP BD+C is their new instructor for Sustainable Fashion. She will also be working closely with the Fashion Design Department Chair to make the overall program more sustainably focused. Equillibrium is truly excited for the outreach, education, and difference to be made through this opportunity in 2020 and beyond.

Equillibrium will be having exciting news regarding our 20yr Anniversary Celebration in 2020! It has been challenging to create, grow, and sustain a brand from nothing. 20 years in existance and being more relevant than ever as a sustainable street brand in fashion is something to celebrate!!! There will be no shortage of sk8ers, punk rock, and fashion during our favorite time of year at this party! Sign up for our news letter and follow us on FB, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to hear it first!

2019 was a good year and we remain hopeful for an even better year in 2020.  Thanks for showing your support and helping fuel the mission of Equillibrium sustainable street brand.

Equillibrium to Voice for the Voiceless at the next Denver Fashion Week…

When asked by Charlie Price of Beauty Underground to be a part of the runway during Denver Fashion Week in November, the answer was absolutely YES!  The interesting aspect was to be a part of the second night on November 10th, Advant Garde Night, and collaborate with Scott Lobben and his team at Rita B Salon for hair and make up.  From the opportunity to make a powerful impact on the runway constructing 10 looks, the decision was made to “voice for the voiceless” though a color story of black and white. In true Equillibrium fashion,  the runway will once again be used as a sound board sending a clear message that time is running out, stand for Endangered Species, and be better to our Planet Earth. We titled our segment, “Forever with the Wild”.

“Good fashion is not enough to inspire me to create and construct apparel, especially on a runway.  It must be made ethically, be sustainable, have function, and send a message for awareness toward an environmental cause to the audience.” Deb Henriksen of Equillibrium. “Fashion is my outlet for change through self expression and activism. At this point in my life, I need it more than ever. It empowers me to have a broad reach and be the change I want to see.”

Equillibrium “Be Wolf” from Black and White Look Book,

The show will begin with Father Time taking a stroll on the runway. Next, 8 looks inspired by Endangered Species will take the spotlight and endear you to their struggle for survival as habitat loss, pollution, poaching, and climate change threaten thier lives every day. Last, our Mother Earth will finish the segment with imagery sure to make the point clear… LOVE your Mother! What is good for the planet is good for People…

We hope to see you the evening of Sunday; November 10th at the Forney Museum of Transportation, 4303 Brighton Blvd, Denver, CO 80216… doors open at 4p, at 5:30p doors close no entry. Show to begin around 6p… you will NOT be disappointed!

Equillibrium x Rita B are going to HOWL!

Equillibrium says to Protect, Defend, Love… everyday!

It is a concerning time for humanity as we approach Earth Day 2019.  The current Administration is stripping protections to our wild places and wildlife for special interest and profit as man-induced climate change generates extreme weather events further threatening sustainability for many species.

As we wrestle feelings of helplessness and frustration we must stay strong in our opposition of accepting this as a new norm.  We know better and must always strive to do better.  It does not matter everyone is not on board with conscious consumption, it matters that you are and practice it.  Set good intention and see it through at all times no matter what.  Over time this example has large butterfly effects with positive impacts to offset momentum in the wrong direction creating hope to get in the right direction. Never discount that, never surrender.

Equillibrium is committed…

So many say the actions of one mean nothing, it takes everyone to make it happen…  almost as an excuse to remain complacent.  Remember complaceny kills. The grey area is just as important as the black in white.  In many cases it is more improtant, due to its accessability to implement with baby steps while working toward making big strides. Everyone must start somewhere, and continue growth toward the end goal.

Equillibrium Flag flying high for sustainable fashion and conscious consumption.

This April, Equillibrium cheers you on at whatever place you are in being a part of the solution toward a sustainable future for life on Earth. Though it is infuriating what policies are being implemented from the White House threatening our Public Lands, Wildlife Reguges (especially in the Arctic),  the Endangered Species Act, the Environmental Protection Agency, etc. ; we must not accept any sense of defeat, but be ready to defend, protect, and continue the LOVE for human health, wildlife, and our wild places. There are no acts too small. They all add up and we must grow in numbers with this common goal. Engage, educate, and activate.  Take the time to learn what is happening, how you can offset it and activate resistance.

Equillibrium Frack OFF : Live it, LOVE it, Feel it, WEAR it!

Overwhelmed? Then, start with one cause like defending our predators: Wolves, Bears, Sharks, etc. / protecting human health: clean air, clean water, clean land, etc. / conscious consumption: sustainable fashion, reducing single use plastics, compost, etc. See where these topics lead you.  Your behavior will change, you will feel empowered not helpless,  and it will become obvious how interconnected everything is.  Small changes you make in your behavior have large impacts over time, as well as spread to better behavior by others by example. Take steps, be consistent. It is never too late, the time is now!  Love your Mother and each other…  be the change. Namaste.  Oi!

Accept no Substitutes to Help End Corporate Bullying: Gucci Disgraces Itself

Been wondering why the silence from Equillibrium over the past summer months? While taking time to enjoy the scenery, scents, and events Summers bring we have been engaged in a defense of our brand identity from a luxury fashion giant infringing on it.

Though prepared for our protections of use, we were not prepared for the treatment by the offender. They have deflected offerings to work together in order to continue use. They feel it is theirs to use how they want. The giant is Gucci. Here is the press release sent out Tuesday 11 September, 2018:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Gucci Disgraces Itself by Infringing on Denver’s Decades-old Sustainable Street Brand Equillibrium

Denver, CO – September 11th, 2018 – Luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Gucci are jumping on the sustainability bandwagon like newbie gamers fumbling over the latest AAA trend.

In early June of 2018, Gucci announced a 10-year commitment to sustainability in fashion which was branded as “Equilibrium” or “Equilibrium Gucci.” Gucci’s use of “Equilibrium” within their brand is a blatant trademark infringement on Denver-based Equillibrium , which is registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Gucci is a luxury brand household name, and hijacking the street credibility of the original Equillibrium name promises to create confusion in the marketplace while threatening to bury the independent brand on digital platforms.

Equillibrium is a 20 year-old company recognized by Common Law Rights that has risen from modest beginnings to build an accredited reputation as a sustainable fashion brand. Equillibrium’s founder Deb Henriksen is proud of the distinction she has earned as an entrepreneur promoting a brand that is firmly rooted in the original principles and practices of sustainability. For years, actions taken to defend Equillibrium’s trademarks were honored — until now. Gucci’s infringement is an obvious attempt to leverage the grassroots foundation Henriksen has built and conveniently apply it to their overnight marketing initiative.

Gucci acknowledges the issue at hand and that there need be an amicable solution for both parties. However, they refuse to rebrand, enter into a licensing deal, or collaborate with Equillibrium to work toward this goal. It is imperative that Equillibrium defend their trademark and ensure no greenwashing tactics are propagated with use of the word. Equillibrium has earned awards , editorial write ups , and a loyal customer base from the sustainability and integrity built into the brand since day one. Gucci can and will outspend Equillibrium in litigation, as displayed in their nine-year trademark infringement court battle with Guess . This is a classic case of corporate bullying by Gucci. Public transparency and holding Gucci accountable for its deliberate piracy is the best option towards a workable resolution for Equillibrium. Maximum broadcasting of this fraudulence towards the end consumer is needed in order for this injustice to be publicly identified and consciously boycotted.

This is a passionate appeal for your participation as a responsible, justice-minded member of the media. Caveat Emptor.

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We hope this makes Gucci take Equillibrium and sustainability more seriously in fashion. This is not a marketing campaign, nor game, nor joke. For us it is a passion and a way of life. Our founder has practiced, studied, and worked in sustainability for over 30 years. The sacrifice to educate and engage consumers to support a sustainable brand has been challenging during times when no one was mindful towards such a thing- and definitely were not spending money on it.

Equillibrium thanks every one of you for your loyal support over the years and making purchases to feed the brand that feeds your soul.

Namaste

 

Equillibrium breaks it down and wants to hear less talk, see more WALK.

It has been difficult the past year to put feelings into words with the realities faced today regarding our environment and ethics.  Since the Trump administration was elected,  there have been no words.  No words to describe the impacts of greedy decisions for profit threatening what we not only love,  but need for a quality life.  You cannot quantify or replace the intrinsic,  we MUST defend and protect it.

Equillibrium Wolf Spirit Look 2018 …  stand for wolves, they are essential!                                                                                                  robins.photography

We speak now to reinforce light in darkness.  To support and encourage all to choose love over fear.  What we do about this in a positive, equal force to the negativity we navigate everyday is critical in holding our spirits high.  Be awoke,  live in action not activity.  As consumers WE hold the POWER to VOTE with our DOLLARS and hold irresponsible Corporations responsible for their actions through exposure and boycotts.  Conscious consumption must be practiced, not just talked about, for any effective change to occur.

Why are soo many who mean well out of alignment in their actions,  to actually be part of the problem with oblivion?  In fact a LIM University study revealed, “that when it comes to buying, ‘Millennials’ are NOT Eco-Fashionistas.”  Sad, but true…  they are missing out in using one of the MOST powerful tools for change,  the VOTE in what you consume. Collectively,  the power of those dollars is huge and speaks loud enough to be heard.  Here is an article, titled “In Apparel It’s Fast Fashion Versus Sustainability”,  by Rivet Magazine addressing the fact that fast fashion is NOT sustainable and IS the problem with Industry pollution and questionable ethics in around World.  The discussion was introduced decades ago to move the Industry towards more sustainable and ethical practices…  the time for talking is over.  Time to do. WALK IT.

Walk the line….                                        robins.photography

We know better.  We can do better and we must.  Time is up for many things;  unconscious consumption is one of them.  If majority of the manufacturers out there won’t willfully be responsible with HOW their products are sourced and made,  then it is time for the consumer to demand they do so and be willing to pay at the register for it.  Why the masses are rewarding any Business that does otherwise with purchases is mind boggling.  Complacency kills and you are what you eat,  wear,  support,  etc.  Time for all to walk the line or face being exposed as a poser and weak link.  These are serious times and we all must roll up our sleeves and do our minor part to collectively gain momentum for a better way. Get punk and get to work on your behavior…  after all it is the behavior that creates the most effects in a positive or negative way.  99% of change is made through a change in behavior…  stop over consuming with fast fashion and know where your money goes.  What does your consumer behavior support?

Wave your flag for good through sustainable fashion!!!                                         robins.photography

Here are some steps to get off a fast fashion diet and move toward  sustainable, conscious consumption.  It is beyond fashionable to give a shit,  as well as feels good to do,  so do it!

1) First observe your consumer behavior…  keep a log if you need to look at it later.  Where do you spend your hard earned fashion dollars?

2) Second,  do some “Googling” and research the Corporations you are “loyal” to.  Know what the values you’d like to support.  Do they support them too? Go to their website and read their Company Mission Statement and policies toward the environment,  production,  etc… do they align with their track record over time?  Are they philanthropic?

3)Third,  research who is a part of the sustainable movement in Fashion,  and for how long?  Are they the real deal or are they “green washing” with clever marketing and lacking action?  Know what that means…

4) Fourth,  start resisting impulsive shopping in all forms to decide if that expense is a necessity or nicety…  does the purchase empower you or make you feel bad?  Move away from purchases that feel conflicted or bad.  It is better to buy nothing than things with negative impacts beyond the register.  Get empowered with your dollars through purchases that make you feel good in every way.

Repeat steps 1-4 in every aspect of your purchasing power you want to explore (food, banking, etc.)…  there will be some Corporations it is hard to get away from,  but we must RESIST and stay AWOKE.  The time is now, we know you can.  We see you, do you see us?

Equillibrium’s new Look Book: “Black & White”

With all the hot air flying around,  we would like to empower you…  be the change,  wear your heart on your sleeve,  and NEVER stop acting out through LOVE!

Please take a look,  support a brand walking the walk for over 17 years,  and believe in yourself to be a part of the solution…  enjoy!

 

 

Equillibrium 2017 Year in Review

(this is a repost from our website blog,  sorry it is late… better that than never)

As we enter 2018,  Equillibrium thanks every one of you who has purchased goods from us.  Because of you we reach for more and are able to exist as a brand you can trust in sustainable fashion.

As the year comes to a close,  we reflect on our impacts from sales in 2017 and set new goals for 2018.  Our donations toward sustainability in 2017 break down as follows: (links to non-profits under the “Activism” in our menu)

50% Western Environmental Law Center

25% Earth Justice

12% Mission Wolf

8% Humane Society of the United States

5% The American Red Cross

We are so grateful to do what we love and be supported in not only our creations,  but our integrity in how we design, source, and produce sustainable high fashion street wear and accessories for you.  Again,  many thanks and continued returns.

We wish you Happy Holidays!  Have a Happy Hanukkah,  Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year! May there be peace on Earth and good will to all…

SK8 2 CR8 in style with Equillibrium …

Hard to believe summer is around the corner when we just got record snow fall in Colorado.  However,  it is almost here and we have some upcoming events we’d like to promote…

First,  is the Annual Dave Tuck Skate Jam in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Here is a nice commentary explaining who Dave Tuck is,  why his jam is in MI,  and what the event raises money for by Josh Meisler-  the event’s Creator,  Coordinator, and Host.   Josh, we thank you for keeping Dave’s essence alive through this kick ass rally to sk8 in his honor.  We cherish and miss you Dave ❤

The other event we are promoting is a Girl SK8 Jam in North Carolina,  called S.E.S.H. Skate Jam – an acronym for South Eastern Sister Hood Skate Jam.  This event dreamed up by our OG Skate Sister Tamra Church.   The event was inspired to bring Girls who share a love for skateboarding together at all ranges of ages as well as skill levels.This is its kick off year,  it will be rad to see what it grows into for next year!

Lastly there are Skateboard Camps coming up from Duchess Ride up in Eagle County starting June 4th!  Duchess Ride is a 501(c)3 non-profit who’s mission is to cultivate TENACITY, CAMARADERIE, and CREATIVITY in young girls.  They do great work and we love them for it!  Check out the link to their website for more information.