Two Bedford boys have swapped katsu for the catwalk and featured at the centre of a new slow fashion campaign for national restaurant chain wagamama and ethical fashion brand PANGAIA.
Fargo Zimphango and Antoinne Dillon, both of whom work at the wagamama Bedford restaurant, were picked after they answered a casting call was sent out across the chain’s 164 restaurants.
In the end, just 30 employees were picked to model the new uniforms for a photoshoot shot by Kaj Jefferies and Louis Bamford.
A spokesperson for the company said the new uniforms are “part of wagamama’s dedication to innovative brand partnerships”.
They added their decision to collaborate with PANGAIA aims to “set a new industry standard that merges cutting-edge design with environmental consciousness.”
PANGAIA has been disrupting the fashion industry and taking fast fashion head-on with its eco-friendly designs since 2018, using fabrics made from things like nettles or pineapple waste and lab-grown alternatives to destructive substances like palm oil.
“We are really excited to announce our groundbreaking partnership with PANGAIA to create our sustainable slow fashion uniform line.
“At wagamama, we believe in the philosophy of kaizen, making small choices every day for big change,” said Kay Bartlett, Chief Marketing Officer at wagamama.
“As two like-minded brands, this partnership captures our commitment to positive eating and positive living to ensure a more sustainable future.
“Our team members are the heart and soul of wagamama, so it’s only fitting that they were chosen to model these stylish and sustainable new uniforms during the shoot to celebrate this collaboration.”
Eva Kruse, Chief Global Engagement Officer at PANGAIA, added, “We are thrilled to join forces with wagamama, powering their journey towards sustainability and circularity.
“Our collaboration not only highlights the potential for a circular ecosystem across all sectors, but also sets a precedent for other brands to join the movement as we co-design an earth-positive future—together.”
The new uniform, which includes both short and long-sleeve variations, is made using organic cotton.
These fibres are grown without pesticides and are treated with PPRMINT™, a plant-based peppermint oil that prevents the growth of odour-causing bacteria so needs less frequent washing.
