Why Slow Fashion?
I have a deep appreciation for fashion, but I’m concerned about its current impact on the world. Fast fashion often means cheap materials, underpaid workers, and a marketing strategy that pushes for immediate purchases with a sense of urgency. In contrast, slow fashion focuses on higher-quality fabrics, fair wages for workers, and thoughtful production processes, avoiding the rapid, disposable nature of fast fashion.
Despite growing awareness of fast fashion's environmental and human costs, many people find it challenging to shop sustainably due to rising inflation, increasing living costs, and the rarity of sustainable options. However, I believe that sustainable and ethical shopping doesn't have to be prohibitively expensive.
Here’s where to begin:
Reduce: Start by auditing your wardrobe. Review what you already own and decide whether to keep, donate, or sell items. I like to go through my clothes each season to maintain a clear understanding of my wardrobe.
Reuse: Shopping secondhand is a great way to find affordable, high-quality clothing and accessories. Pre-owned items often last longer than fast fashion pieces, offering better value in terms of price-per-wear.
Recycle: Donating clothes or accessories you no longer wear can benefit others and help reduce consumerism and waste. By giving your clothes a second life, you’re lowering your carbon footprint and contributing to a healthier planet. Though it might seem small, collective efforts to donate can significantly reduce landfill waste.