In this episode of Style POV, I sit down with fashion designer and YouTube creator Justine Leconte to explore what it really means to build a sustainable wardrobe—beyond linen dresses and neutral palettes.

Born in Paris and now running her own ethical fashion label, Justine has amassed over a million subscribers on YouTube thanks to her smart, accessible take on slow fashion, thoughtful design, and what’s actually happening behind the scenes in the industry.

We talk about her shift from fast fashion burnout to building a business grounded in integrity, the difference between “ethical” and “sustainable,” and how to spot the marketing traps brands often hide behind. Justine also shares practical, clear-eyed advice on how to start your own ethical style journey—without needing to toss your entire closet.

If you're curious about fashion with more purpose and less pressure, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Show Notes: https://gabriellearruda.com/fast-fashion-isnt-style-redefining-ethical-dressing-with-justine-leconte/

Where to Find Justine:

YouTube: @justineleconte

Justine Leconte Brand

TikTok: @justine_leconte

Instagram: @justineleconte

https://www.justineleconte.com/timeless

Timestamps

01:45 – About Justine
03:47 – Defining what “Sustainable” really means
04:33 – What it means to be “Ethical”
08:27 – A reality check
12:59 – Discovering your authentic style or following trends?
16:50 – Two-week seasons with Fast Fashion garments
20:22 – Question sustainability claims
23:28 – Sustainability as a value point
25:21 – The sustainable production phase
28:24 – The realization that started the journey to sustainability
32:54 – Secondhand shopping the right way
35:14 – The I-Can’t-Afford-It Argument
37:04 – Buying fast fashion is charitable? 
41:16 – Sewing as a dying art
42:41 – Top tip to get started with sustainability
46:04 – Parson’s Buddies

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Disclaimer: The Style POV Podcast content is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own. Gabrielle Arruda is not liable for any errors or omissions, and listeners use the information at their own risk.