There is an amazing organisation, I’ve talked about them before, founded by Carry Somers and Orsola de Castro called Fashion Revolution. In 2013 when the Rana Plaza building in Bangladesh collapsed killing 1,134 and injuring 2,500 who were making clothes for the Western market, these two ladies decided enough was enough. They have campaigned since for a fairer, cleaner, more transparent and more beautiful fashion industry.
24th April is the anniversary of the disaster, declared Fashion Revolution Day and every year since professionals and consumers have asked, via social media, their favourite brands one vital question which most brands are still unable to answer.
This year they have gone a step further and declared Fashion Revolution Week 18-24th April, with their #haulternative campaign when each day will have a different focus. So I’m going to join them. As well as asking my own favourite brands the million dollar question I will post every day, talking about a different aspect of my approach to ethical fashion. There is huge debate about whether change will be brand led or consumer led but the reality as always is that unless we all join together, people will continue to be forced into unfair employment and poor working conditions. The environment will suffer as chemical waste is added and vital resources are taken away.
A few weeks ago, I posted my ethical guide to fast fashion. My Fashion Revolution posts will tell you how I follow this guide and hopefully, give you some pointers on how we can all play a small part for the greater good and our future generations.
- Plan a capsule wardrobe for the season ahead.
- Buy quality staples; jeans, leggings, shoes … think price per wear.
- For trends shop second hand and upcycle.
- Use brands I trust for new items.
- Plan before hitting the shops, write a list and try to stick to it.
