Sitting down with Julia Brammer
Living on the edge of the Chiltern Hills, Julia embraces a lifestyle of mindful choices, from her eco-conscious fashion choices to growing her own food and fostering connections with nature.
Safia: Please tell us a bit about yourself
Julia: I’m lucky enough to teach the Alexander Technique for a living. And for the last twenty years have grown fruit and vegetables on two allotments and keep hens for their fresh eggs and quirky company. Living on the edge of the Chiltern Hills, I love to be out walking through the woods and meadows as often as possible; and like to dabble in a bit of pottery when I have time. I’m also involved in running a local produce market.
Safia: How would you describe your fashion style or aesthetic?
Julia: I like practical, well-made clothing that’s made from natural fibres and allows me to move freely. I often buy from charity shops, as well as ethically-minded brands. But honestly, I’m happiest in my gardening clothes and wellies!
Safia: How much time do you spend in nature each day, and why is it important to you?
Julia: I spend a lot of time outside - most days I’m either walking, cycling, or on my allotment. I’m fortunate to have access to beautiful countryside. Walking especially helps me work through dilemmas, settle my emotions, and feel strong and connected to myself. Gardening and growing food also keeps me grounded and fed!
Safia: Why are you supporting Indilisi?
Julia: I’ve bought People Tree clothing in the past, so I have absolute trust in Safia Minney’s ability to create clothing that’s ethically made for both people and the environment. So when I buy from Indilisi, I know I’m supporting something in line with my values - and it’s stylish, too. I absolutely love the artist’s jacket I have!
Safia: Why do you love handcrafted, organic cotton fabrics and clothes?
Julia: Cotton fabrics breathe and are durable. And if they’re organic, I know less harm has been inflicted in the making, which, to me, is how it should be.
Safia: Sustainable living and sufficiency - what are your pet peeves, and are there any things you draw the line at?
Julia: While I don’t have any strict ‘red lines,’ as life is rarely that simple, I’ve been mindful of my choices since my early twenties, and the impact they have on the environment and people. I ask myself how something is made and what will happen to it once it’s at the end of its life. Can it be returned to the natural cycle without leaving a harmful trace, or at least with as little harm as possible? This applies to food production, travel, banking, and energy tariffs. I want to tread lightly and live a slow, low-tech life that’s connected to people and nature.
Safia: What’s important to you about your home, and why have you styled it the way you have?
Julia: I’ve always bought second-hand, so my home is full of ‘found’ furniture from antique shops, skips, or bartering. My plates, cups, and bowls are handmade by potters I’ve met, friends, or by me. I love that everything in my home holds a memory or a story of how it came to be here. It feels important to me that my home is made up of things I love and that hold meaning and connection to people I’ve met throughout my life. I adore blankets and textiles in earthy colours - they make my home feel cosy.
How do you find balance?
