Egmont snaps up fashion bible for Greta Thunberg generation

Egmont will publish a sustainable-fashion bible for eco-conscious teenagers from expert author Sarah Klymkiw and designer and illustrator Kim Hankinson.

Fashion Conscious is an empowering call-to-arms for the Greta Thunberg generation, offering an in-depth look at the fashion industry and a range of ways that young people can become campaigners for change. 

Publishing director Melissa Fairley acquired world rights in all languages from Klymkiw and Hankinson directly. For ages 11+, Fashion Conscious will publish in paperback for £7.99, on 20th August 2020, ahead of London Fashion Week 2020 and Oxfam’s Second Hand September campaign. It will be supported by a UK-wide marketing and PR campaign.

The book will be printed using vegetable ink and feature a plastic-free cover. Presented in an upbeat magazine-style format, Fashion Conscious encourages social activism in small achievable steps – from swapping or mending your own clothes through to investigating a fashion brand’s ‘green’ claims for validity before buying.

Klymkiw said: “Never has it been so important to consider the impact that our clothing choices have on our planet. After reading this book, I want young people to shake up the fashion world - to demand answers and to take action both as conscious consumers and active citizens. We have the power to collectively change the world with a change of clothes.”

Fashion Conscious editor Lisa Edwards added: “Anyone who reads this book will not see their wardrobe in the same way ever again. It will inspire you to rediscover the hidden gems you already own and help you make informed decisions about the clothes you add to your collection, ensuring your impact on the environment is kept to an absolute minimum.” 

Klymkiw brings a wealth of eco-knowledge to this highly topical non-fiction commission, said Egmont. The lecturer at London universities including the London College of Fashion has written about ethical fashion for the Guardian and acted as consultant on sustainability for the BBC's "Great British Sewing Be"e and the V&A’s fashion projects. Fashion Conscious marks Hankinson's first foray into children's books. Hankinson has worked for several major publishing houses and smaller independents in positions from Art Director to agent-represented artist.