Do you ever think about where you clothes come from? About the ethical and environmental impacts that the clothing industry makes? Not really? That's okay, It's a pretty tough topic to crack open! So let's start slow.
Our friends from Avila have shared with us a quick thought starter into more mindful shopping...
Fast Fashion has been on the scene for years, answering the calls of overnight catwalk look-alikes, celebrity trends, and weekly range launches. Whilst the cost of purchasing these items is incredibly cheap for that perfect t-shirt you must have, the more we learn about where the cost is actually being paid shows the apparent need for a re-think. There are some staggering statistics about the effects of the fashion industry in regard to our environment which weighs (literally) heavy on our minds and hearts - every half an hour in Australia the average weight of a bus (18 tonne) is being disposed of into landfill from fashion textiles alone.
Enter Slow Fashion. Think back to times when clothing was handmade from available resources. Whilst machinery is now common in slow fashion production houses, it is the same essence; that every aspect of the creation is slower, thoughtful. At Avila we carefully select materials that are made with low environmental impact, have a luxurious feel and are of high quality, resulting in longevity of the garment. For instance, did you know that organic cotton uses around 90% less water than standard cotton and uses far less chemicals in the process to turn it from a natural fibre into yarn? Further to the material selection the workhouse production team and factory is vitally important to ensure ethical standards are being met. This comes particularly into play when people are dealing with dyes, and if not managed safely can have impacts on their skin and their overall health. All of these individual steps make sustainable and ethical fashion a bit slower to produce, but we think it is worth it!
Here’s a couple of tips to slower fashion buying:
- Be mindful - the first step to making a difference is to be thoughtful about your purchases.
- Check the label - the materials being used and any certifications (e.g. Fairtrade).
- Instore shopping - ask the team. If the brand is active in sustainability they will want to tell you about it.
- Online shopping - check the brands ‘about us’ page or their social media to see if their values align with yours.
- Core essentials - think classic and trans-seasonal pieces that don’t date and can be worn throughout the year.
- Love and care - looking after your clothes helps longevity. Particularly washing - hand washing, an eco-washing bag, washed inside out
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Avila believe that you can have comfortable, stylish and high quality fashion while also having a low impact on the environment and a positive impact on the people in the supply chain. Avila creates clothing without compromise. Good for you, good for the planet. Check out Avila here.