The 7 Fast Benefits of Slow Fashion
Slow fashion, AKA ethical and sustainable fashion, is finally becoming widely recognised as something to take seriously, and something that not only benefits those who work to make the clothing we take for granted, but also the environment. We have known for a long time the importance of slow, sustainable fashion, and it’s something we’ve practiced since we were founded in 2014. For too long, fast fashion has been the culprit of a ‘throwaway’ mentality that promotes mindless consumption. It’s hard to pin the catalyst on any one thing, but Instagram, with its #OOTD hashtag could be one of the biggest boosters of fast fashion - promoting the buy, throw away and buy again cycle.
We’re sure you don’t need much, if any, convincing to adopt a slow fashion mentality, but regardless, here are some of the most compelling reasons to get behind the slow fashion movement.
1. Higher Quality Garments
Buying organic and sustainable made clothing will make a huge impact on consumerism. It will also mean that although the pricing will be slightly higher than the fast fashion chains, the materials used will be of a higher quality and in turn the garments will last longer.
2. Fair Trade is Supported
When you choose clothing made under fair trade conditions, you have the reassurance that the manufacturing of these garments didn’t take place in a sweatshop, and the working conditions were safe.
3. Reduction of Toxic Waste
The dyes used for clothing manufacture are incredibly harmful to the environment, with cotton clothing in particular requiring 150g of chemicals for a single shirt. This amount adds up extremely quickly with mass production, and has severe impacts on our environment.
4. Reduction of Environmentally Harmful Pesticides
Clothing made from cotton and cotton farming requires enormous amounts of pesticides to ensure a healthy crop. By wearing second hand or eco-friendly clothing, you help to reduce the amount of pesticides needed as you lower the demand for the clothing.
5. Lower Cost Per Wear
Although you may initially pay a higher price for fair trade and sustainable fashion, as these garments are made with higher quality materials and a greater attention to detail, they will last longer than their fast fashion counterparts. In the long run, saving you money per wear.
6. Basic Human Rights
When you support fast fashion chains, you may inadvertently be supporting poor factory and working conditions. A recent example of a fast fashion tragedy is the 2013 collapse of the Rana Plaza in Dhaka, Bangladesh, where more than 1,000 were killed, and another 2,600 were injured.
7. Individuality
It goes without saying that the less identical garments are readily available, the less chance there is of bumping into someone wearing the same piece of clothing as you. Investing in limited ranges keeps you looking fresh, and helps maintain your sense of individuality.
We understand the attraction of cheap clothing, and we also acknowledge that practicing and participating in slow fashion isn’t necessarily within everyone’s means. However, if even a fraction of those supporting the fast fashion chains such as H&M, ASOS, Cotton On, BooHoo, Missguided and Topshop stepped away, the impact would be incredible.
If you’re looking for a bespoke suit, email us to book an appointment.