Whether you have been shopping ethical fashion for years or you have recently become aware of fast fashion, coming back to the basics is always helpful. Perfection is not the goal, progress is. Remember to be gentle with yourself. Growing in awareness is the first step towards change and this is a no shame zone! We want you to have the freedom to learn and grow within the Lev community.
What is Fast Fashion?
Fast fashion has three main components from the consumer’s perspective: it’s cheap, it’s trendy and it’s disposable. It makes purchasing clothes on impulse easy and affordable. Shoppers are encouraged to update their wardrobes regularly throughout the year to keep up with ever-changing trends.
While most fashion is consumed in the U.S., 90 percent of the world’s clothing is produced in low- and middle-income countries. Each day, 40 million workers endure poor working conditions and earn unfair wages to assemble garments. 85% of garment workers are women making less than $3 a day.
Fast fashion has an enormous environmental footprint for both its production and disposal. Textile dyeing is the second largest polluter of water globally and it takes around 2,000 gallons of water to make a typical pair of jeans.
What is Slow Fashion?
Slow fashion advocates in manufacturing in respect to people, environment, and animals. Contributing to society and public good in a responsible, positive, and sustainable way. Putting people and the planet over mass profits and exploitation.
5 Ways to ✋QUIT Fast Fashion
1. Shop Thrift, Vintage, or Secondhand
This is a great opportunity to break out of the trend cycle and create your own personal style that expresses who you are to the world. It will also save you $$$ every month.
2. Shop Ethical and Sustainable Brands
This takes a perspective shift. Think about the shopping mantra like "buy less, spend more". The cost for ethical clothing is higher. With trusted brands, this ensures garment workers are being paid a fair living wage. Also think about the longevity and quality of the item. If you spend more for higher quality, you will wear it more often and it will last!
3. Shop USA made
Look for trusted brands and makers within the US that have ethical practices. Typically, there are more strict manufacturing guidelines within the US and it is easier to trust. We still recommend you doing research on the brand or even asking them directly #whomamemyclothes ?
4. Use Ethical Brand Guides
5. Ask Yourself, "Why Do I Want to Buy This?"
Don't be afraid to dig into what is motivating your desire to purchase. Marketing feeds on emotions hoping that you will buy. There is a phycological reason we click buy. Will this make me a better mom, more attractive, more successful, feel loved, feel useful... It is also a good idea to give yourself 24 hours to think it over. Plan out your year. Wha boundaries will set you up for success? Or perhaps you want to keep your purchases to only 20 meaningful pieces this year
Plan out your year. What will set you up for success? Perhaps you have a monthly or yearly budget in mind. Maybe you want to keep your purchases limited to 20 meaningful pieces this year. Think about creating a capsule wardrobe wish list to keep you focused on finding pieces that make your wardrobe versatile. You can check out our friend @dressingdawn for wardrobe planning inspiration.
Enjoy your journey this year! If you have any questions or advice, please share in the comments. Best wishes and cheers to a conscious 2021!