What even is slow fashion?
On the contrary, fast fashion is the multi trillion dollar industry that feeds our materialistic and discontented feeling of always needing something new. This industry supports mistreated workers, toxic chemical use, and fuels our desires to buy and consume more, more, more. Slow fashion is a movement of considering the ethics behind clothing purchases while consuming less. Have you ever considered the person who made your clothes? Me either, until earlier this year. And ever since, I have been horrified by how quick I was to spend $5 on a tee at H&M and think it was all good.
If we only consider the price of a garment, we are ignoring the many other negative implications.
Yes, it will cost more to buy sustainable garments. But think of it this way- you are supporting a family business, a village, or an independent maker who loves their job of making custom garments, not a corporation or a sweat shop. And it doesn’t have to cost crazy amounts more- I have been amazed at how many items I’ve been able to find at “normal” prices (think, an Anthro dress for $150). The concept is almost biblical to me know- I’ve realized by me considering each item I purchase, how it’s affecting others and what my money is funding, I would like to think that maybe, just maybe, I’m doing a little good in the world.
So, as I am slowly (ha!) searching for items that I will be incorporating into my fall/winter capsule, I have a few stipulations I’ve been considering:
- Will the item last more than one, two, even three seasons?
- Are my dollars supporting fair trade operations?
- Will it go with multiple items I already own?
- Can this item take me from 80 degree days in September to frigid January temps?
Being that my main purchase this year will be a few key dresses that will take me to work, play, and dressing up, I thought I’d share some of my favorite sustainable, yet affordable options! A few brands made it on the list twice- they are just that good! And I have to give a shout out to Taylor Stitched- I had a question regarding length of a dress and within one business day they had responded! They were extremely helpful and the whole experience left me feeling like a valued customer.
1. Taylor Stitch Emma Dress 2. Osei Duro Aburi Dress 3. Kowtow Road Trip Dress
4. Everlane Cotton Pocket Shirt Dress 5. Osei Duro Toss Kimono 6. Pyne and Smith Indigo Striped Button Up Dress
7. Taylor Stitch Juniper Dress 8. Armour Vert Marissa Dress 9. People Tree Kaya Frill Dress
What do you think of this slow fashion movement? I’d love to hear.