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Article: What is slow fashion & how can i join the movement?

What is slow fashion & how can i join the movement?

Heard of the term ‘slow fashion’ before, but still don’t exactly know what it means? - Don’t worry we’ve got you covered!


What is ‘Slow Fashion’?

Slow fashion is a term used to describe a more conscious approach to fashion. It focuses on slowing down processes to create clothing in a more sustainable and thoughtful manner that has less of an impact on the planet and the people involved.

Slow fashion is quite simply the opposite of ‘fast fashion’ - the term used to describe clothing that is cheap, trendy and made on quick turnaround times; which often results in low quality garments made from synthetic fibers, and unethical processes. 

Thus on the other hand, Slow fashion advocates for buying ‘investment pieces’ made to high quality and from natural fibres; designed to be more timeless rather than trend-driven. Slow fashion values the environment and all people involved; it hones in on reducing consumption with a slower approach; less quantities, less collections and less waste.

 

A sustainable approach to fashion - Malia The Label - Slow fashion for a better planet.

 

The truth is when it comes to fashion and buying new clothes… There are soooo many choices these days and it’s easy to get swept up in trends, buying things we do not need and forgetting to think consciously before we buy. 

It’s easy to buy into ultra fast-fashion brands such as Shein; and buy into their narrative of ‘cute affordable clothing’ when we haven’t seen the impact personally. We are disconnected from the harsh truths that lie beneath the surface.  

So what are these hidden costs? When delving into the Shein’s processes and environmental practices it’s clear that there are several red flags including:

  • There are no supply chain certifications that ensure the workplace’s health & safety, or that living wage standards and labour rights are being met.
  • It uses primarily synthetic polyester fibres to cut down costs (Causing environmental impacts, as it can take up to 1000 years to break down naturally).
  • There have been reports of hazardous & toxic ridden chemicals used to produce clothing.
  • The brand often exploits and plagiarizes emerging designer styles.
  • There is evidence that points to workers being overworked and underpaid.

 Ultimately, the majority of fast fashion find’s its way into landfill with many other hidden costs. Enough is enough... It's time we slow down, take responsibility for our impact and action change.

 

Join the Slow Fashion Movement!

Help us make a change; here's how you can become a more conscious consumer…

  • Support Slow Fashion: When buying new clothing support Slow fashion brands that design for timeless wear and use high-quality, low impact natural fibres (such as cottons and linens). These brands often produce in small batch quantities and sold in smaller stores rather than large chain enterprises. 
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  • Change your mindset on fashion: Don’t be afraid to be an outfit repeater… Clothing is made to be worn, styled, repaired, reinvented and loved for a long time. Change your mindset on fashion and buy the pieces you love because you love it - not because it’s a trend… That way you can ensure it will last in your wardrobe.
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  • Think before you buy:  Instead of buying a handful of cheap, trendy polyester tops that will unravel after a few wears, think about buying ‘investment pieces’ that are made to higher quality, designed for timeless wear and are made from natural fibres (Not only better for your body/ skin, but also better for the planet).
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  • Think about the lifecycle of your clothing: The cost of a garment reflects its value, therefore when you buy an ‘investment’ piece that is a bit more expensive than you are also more likely to take better care of it - like you should be! This means reading the care labels and washing it correctly, taking pride in your clothing, repairing your clothing (before buying new), reinventing your pieces by styling and thinking about how to part with your clothing consciously (Passing it on, donating or recycling).
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  • Share with friends: Share your new knowledge and help us path the way for a more sustainable approach to fashion!
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