Aquatic commuters navigating a flooded future are the focus of Ahead of the Tide, a thought provoking editorial shoot by a group of Tauranga creatives.
Released today – on World Environment Day – they make a poignant statement on climate change and rising sea levels.
It also spotlights sustainable fashion labels and versatile pieces that allow for effortless transitions between scorching heatwaves and sudden downpours, ensuring that the commuter is always prepared for the unexpected.
Sari wears: emroce Nora shorts/Utopia onesie, Josh Jozsef garment label bag, Glide Soles shoe protectors, Hannah Lee Jade socks. Photography Billie Blue
The shoot was directed and produced by Sophie Garth with the full support of leading sustainable swimwear brand Emroce.
“I was organising an e-comm shoot for emroce swimwear when I had the idea for this editorial. I thought this could be a great opportunity to use these resources to tell this story; much like emroce zero waste kaupapa – nothing wasted,” says Sophie.
The sunny scene for the shoot is a more cheerful view to dystopian predictions for the planet.
Indy wears: emroce Nora shorts, Resac shirt and hat, Tatano knitwear. Photography Billie Blue
The shoot is set in the not-too-distant future where rising sea levels have reimagined the urban landscape.
“Water now flows through streets once filled with traffic, and the morning rush has taken on a new dimension. Commuters must navigate knee-deep currents to reach the city centre,” says Sophie explaining the concept.
In this persistently damp world, conventional professional attire is no longer practical. Fashion has adapted, embracing the inevitable. Sustainable swimwear has become a staple. No more “togs, togs, undies”: it’s now acceptable to wear swimwear as outerwear.
Sari wears: emroce Nora shorts & Hot Air top, Resac jacket. Photography Billie Blue
As the climate continues to shift, commuters must be prepared for unpredictable weather. Sunhats made from repurposed textiles, woollen outerwear crafted from sustainably sourced materials, and durable bags made from upcycled materials are now essential additions to the aquatic commuter’s wardrobe.
“By embracing sustainable fashion, we’re not just dressing for the moment – we’re dressing for a resilient future. Sustainable fashion is built to last, and with a little foresight, so is our planet,” says Sophie.
“If we all shop with the future in mind, we might just get ahead of the tide.”
Hope wears: Juan Bullion JB original hat, emroce Julio one-piece. Photography Billie Blue
Shoot credits:
Photographer: Billie Blue (@billiebluephotos)
Producer/Director: Sophie Garth (@sophie.garth)
Stylist: Jera Mae (@jeramaedesign)
Styling Assist: Jorgii Cameron-King (@jorgii.camkin)
Hairstylist: Penny @ Ado Hair Salon (@ado_hair_)
Makeup Artist: Natalie @ NKD Makeup (@nkdmakeup)
Models: Sari, Indy and Hope @ Part Time Models (@parttimemodels_)
Production Assist: Sienna Colletta & Lilly Mae (interns from @lcf.intimates)
This article first appeared in Good magazine.
