Inside Boulder Babe: VOYAGE DENVER Interview on Sustainable Fashion in Denver

Hi, I’m Megan Banich, founder of Boulder Babe, and I’m thrilled to share my recent interview with VOYAGE DENVER. It was an incredible opportunity to talk about my journey with Boulder Babe, being a fashion designer in the denver area, my passion for sustainability, and the fusion of eco-conscious fashion and regenerative landscaping. They asked me a sereies of questions and it was fun answering them.

Megan working her magic on Camille’s makeup for the NUE Colorado Fall Fashion Show 2024, bringing artistry and elegance to the runway.

Boulder Babe: Where Sustainability Meets Art

At Boulder Babe, we create wearable art that makes a statement. Our Wearable Art Collection is designed to combine sustainability with creativity, using eco-friendly materials to craft pieces that help people express their individuality without compromising the planet. Every design reflects the boldness of streetwear with the responsibility of sustainable fashion.

But it’s not just about looking good—it’s about feeling good, knowing you’re supporting a brand that cares for the earth and its people. From metallic accents to striking patterns, we aim to make designs that empower you to stand out, express yourself, and make a positive impact on the world.

Introducing the Croatian Wedding Collection

Lilia Safi modeling the Jedna dress, meaning 'one' in Croatian. This piece is a key part of our mission to combat fast fashion and promote sustainable, meaningful design.

I’m also incredibly excited to introduce the Croatian Wedding Collection, which we’re about to release. This collection takes wedding wear to a new level by transforming traditional wedding attire into everyday wearable pieces for formal events. The designs are inspired by my Croatian heritage, blending both traditional and contemporary elements for a unique take on wedding apparel.

The goal of this collection is to make luxurious wedding-inspired pieces that you can wear beyond just the big day—whether you’re attending a formal event, a celebration, or simply want to make a statement in your everyday life. We’ve kept sustainability at the forefront, upcycling wedding garments and using thoughtful production practices to bring these pieces to life.

Justin rocking the Shoreline Tie-Dye Button Up at the Wellness Fashion Show in Lone Tree 2024, showcasing sustainable style with a bold twist.

Denver's New Sustainable Men’s Collection: Boulder Bro

Along with our women’s collections, I’m also thrilled to introduce Boulder Bro, the new men’s collection under Boulder Babe. This collection brings the same sustainability and artistry that define Boulder Babe, but with designs specifically tailored for men. From street-inspired, minimalist pieces to bold statement items, Boulder Bro is designed to give men the chance to express their individuality while staying true to eco-friendly principles.

Whether you're looking for something casual or a standout piece, Boulder Bro offers fashion-forward designs that cater to the modern man. We’re excited to see how this new collection will connect with a whole new audience and continue to push the boundaries of sustainable fashion.

Beyond Fashion: My Passion for Regenerative Landscaping

Megan envisioning her next creative moves, surrounded by native salvia and perennial lilies, drawing inspiration from nature.

While fashion is at the heart of Boulder Babe, I’m also passionate about my work with Magic Beans Landscaping (my 9-5). I focus on regenerative landscaping that supports pollinators and nurtures the environment. I believe in creating spaces that benefit the earth and its ecosystems, which is why I prioritize designs that go beyond just aesthetics.

Through Magic Beans, I’ve been able to bring regenerative landscaping to life in the Denver metro area, promoting practices that enhance biodiversity while still being functional and beautiful.

The Challenges of Sustainable Fashion & Lessons from My Journey

Building Boulder Babe has been an incredible journey, but it hasn’t come without its challenges. In my recent interview with VOYAGE DENVER, I shared some of the obstacles I’ve faced, particularly when it comes to competing with the fast fashion industry and shifting consumer mindsets. Here’s a deeper look at the struggles and lessons I’ve learned along the way...

Fighting Against Fast Fashion Culture in Denver

One of the biggest challenges I’ve encountered is the dominance of fast fashion giants like SHEIN, ASOS, and TEMU. These platforms have made it normal for people to buy cheap clothing with little thought about where it comes from or who made it. But behind these rock-bottom prices are serious issues:

• Environmental Destruction: Fast fashion produces massive amounts of waste. The low-quality garments fall apart quickly, leading to overflowing landfills and increased pollution from textile production.

• Exploited Labor: Many of these brands operate with unethical labor practices, where workers—often children—are subjected to dangerous conditions for unlivable wages.

• Devaluation of Craftsmanship: When a mass-produced outfit costs less than a cup of coffee, it distorts the public’s understanding of the time and skill it takes to create quality fashion. As a designer, I spend hours crafting each Boulder Babe piece, ensuring ethical production and fair wages. That kind of dedication has real value, and I strive to help people see the difference between fast fashion and true artistry.

Changing Consumer Perspectives on Fashion

Beyond competing with fast fashion, another challenge has been shifting the way people think about clothing. Many consumers are conditioned to seek instant gratification—buying trendy pieces on impulse without considering their long-term impact. My goal with Boulder Babe is to challenge that mindset and encourage people to see clothing as an investment in wearing positive values, not a disposable commodity.

Educating people about the true cost of fashion has been key. I share the stories behind each piece, from the upcycled materials used to the time spent designing and crafting it. When people understand the process, and the transparent aftermath they begin to see why slow fashion matters. Through my work, I hope to inspire more conscious shopping habits and create a movement that values sustainability over convenience.

The Financial Realities of Ethical Production

Lauren Reedy wearing the Moonlit Mycelium Denim Set from the Just Clownin' Around collection—sustainably upcycled and one-of-a-kind. Size Medium, priced at $90. (SOLD)

Running a sustainable fashion brand comes with financial challenges as well. Ethical production means sourcing high-quality, eco-friendly materials, paying fair wages, and creating limited-run pieces rather than mass-produced clothing. This results in higher costs, making it difficult to compete with fast fashion brands that cut corners at every step.

Rather than lowering my standards, I’ve embraced creativity in making sustainability more accessible. Upcycled collections like JUST CLOWNIN AROUND offer unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that repurpose existing materials. I also host events, collaborate with other creatives, and encourage second-hand shopping as part of a more mindful fashion ecosystem.

Building a Creative Community

Despite these obstacles, I’ve learned that the support of a strong community is everything. The connections I’ve built—whether with models, photographers, other designers, or sustainability advocates—have helped Boulder Babe grow in ways I never imagined. Collaboration is key in this industry, and surrounding yourself with people who share your vision can make all the difference.

Boulder Babe Clothing Swap at the Moxy Hotel in Boulder—building community through sustainable fashion! Featuring Gloria Perez, our amazing volunteer and friend, waving hello.

Ultimately, my journey has reinforced the belief that fashion is more than just clothing—it’s a statement, a movement, and an opportunity to create change. Through Boulder Babe, I’m committed to making fashion that empowers people, honors craftsmanship, and paves the way for a more sustainable future.

What’s Next for Boulder Babe

We have some exciting events on the horizon, and I can’t wait to share them with you. If you want to get involved, we’re offering commission opportunities for anyone who features Boulder Babe on their profile or sets up a Linktree. It’s a way to give back to the community and support those who help amplify our message.

Boulder Babe isn’t just about fashion—it’s about creating something that’s bigger than all of us. It’s a movement that blends creativity, sustainability, and community, and I’m thrilled to have you along for the ride.

Anastasia, Michelle, Valerie, and Nina showcasing Boulder Babe's new upcycled collection, JUST CLOWNIN AROUND, at the StreetWear Fashion Show December 2024, hosted by ONTHERISE. Inspired by psychedelics, the circus, and the vibrant spirit of the ‘70s.

Support Sustainable Fashion – Donate to Boulder Babe

At Boulder Babe, we believe in fashion that gives back—to the planet, to the community, and to the next generation of creatives. Your donations help us continue our mission of sustainable design by funding upcycled collections, community clothing swaps, and ethical production. Whether you’re contributing fabrics, gently used clothing, or financial support, every donation makes a difference in reducing waste and promoting conscious fashion. Join us in shaping a future where style and sustainability go hand in hand. Donate today and be part of the movement! Donate Now!

If you’re as passionate about sustainability, creativity, and fashion as I am, I’d love for you to join us on this journey. Stay updated on new collections like the Croatian Wedding Collection and BoulderBro by following us on social media and visiting boulderbabe.com

Together, we can make a lasting impact.