We all know the feeling: that ecstasy of getting home with a bag full of new clothing you’ve bought without breaking the bank. As consumers in Western culture, we have become accustomed to fast fashion—we buy inexpensive clothing to follow the latest trends, and throw them away once a new fad comes along. Fortunately, there are fantastic alternatives to fast fashion, reminding consumers that ethically made clothing can still be trendy and affordable.
1. Read
In the past decade, there have been countless journalistic exposés from credible souses exposing the inhumane conditions of fast fashion factories. It is crucial that you read and educate yourself on the grim realities of the fast-fashion industry. The New York Time’s have conducted heart-wrenching stories on sweatshop labor conditions in Asia, underpaid Fashions Nova workers in Los Angles and retailers like H&M falling short of facilitating safe labour conditions overseas.
2. Watch
Watching an inspirational movie can help mobilize change. The documentary Machine exposes the dark reality of the fast fashion industry. The graphic depictions of the inhumane conditions suffered by workers worldwide at the hands of large corporations will give you the chills. This film will enhance your awareness surrounding the pressing issues of sustainability, exploitation and, child labour.
3. Research
There are Fashion Transparency Indexes that reveal and rank a company’s policies and commitments on human rights and the environment. As consumers, we can inform ourselves about the issues and discover what brands we can trust to be ethical. Not all brands made in developing countries are bad—some brands like Known Supply have built ethical factories in developing countries to create employment opportunities. It is important to do your research so you can understand how different companies operate.
4. Think Local
It’s important to learn about the ethical options accessible to you. Greats options are your local second-hand clothing stores like the Mile End shop Ruse Boutique. You can also donate your clothes to the student-run McGill fashion show SynesthASIA which raises money for poverty alleviation projects throughout Asia.
5. Don’t Compromise
Brands like Reformation and Everlane prioritize suitability and safe labour are a reminder that ethically made clothing can still be trendy and affordable. You can still look fabulous without compromising your morals!
The Ethical Fashion Forum 