FOUNDER'S STORY

Our Story: The Birth of EcoQuelle

 

EcoQuelle was born out of a need to create something different — a brand that reflects the values of sustainability, uniqueness, and empowerment. I’m Niyama Ram, the woman behind EcoQuelle, and my journey began in Bangalore, India, where I studied architecture. My work in sustainable architecture deepened my commitment to sustainability in every aspect of life, but I noticed a glaring gap when it came to clothing. Whether I was heading to a construction site or attending a client meeting, finding sustainable, durable, and stylish clothing felt impossible. Fast fashion options were not only wasteful but also lacked individuality — the same clothes, the same trends, worn by everyone.

During my higher studies in Germany, I was struck by their culture of giving away used items through a concept called “zu verschenken” (to give away). While this idea inspired me, I quickly realized that the fast fashion problem persisted even in second-hand stores. The same low-quality items flooded the market, and it was clear that something needed to change.

That’s how EcoQuelle came to life. Homegrown in India and started out of a garage, EcoQuelle is about creating sustainable power dressing options for women — clothes that not only look and feel good but are made to last. Drawing from my personal experiences of working in the Indian professional culture, I designed each style to meet the practical and aesthetic needs of women navigating various work environments. I wanted to empower women through fashion, giving them the confidence to express themselves while making sustainable choices.

At EcoQuelle, we focus on crafting high-quality, timeless pieces from sustainable materials like hemp, organic cotton, and Tencel. But our mission doesn’t stop there. We’re also committed to supporting other sustainable businesses by creating a platform for sustainable products and building a community that celebrates sustainable living.

For me, EcoQuelle is a movement where I am fostering connections, and empowering women to make conscious fashion choices without compromising on style.