The slow fashion movement has been gaining serious traction in recent years, and we at Fabslay are proud to be a part of it.
It’s a much-needed philosophy in the fashion industry, which has spent too long pushing fleeting trends, low quality garments, and reckless consumption. But what is slow fashion, and how can you embrace it? We’re explaining exactly what the movement is and sharing how you can join it to drive change within the industry below.
What Is Slow Fashion?
As the name suggests, slow fashion is the opposite of fast fashion. It’s an ethical and sustainable approach to producing and consuming fashion. And, more importantly, it’s a rebuttal against the detrimental impact of fast fashion on the planet and its people.
Slow fashion is a movement that both fashion brands and consumers can partake in.
Brands and designers adopt a mindful approach to design and production. They create well-made pieces that stand the test of time both in terms of style and quality. They also ensure their designs are made in an ethical and sustainable way to lessen their environmental impact while supporting workers’ rights.
Consumers are considerate about what they buy. They opt for quality over quantity, and only buy what they need rather than constantly chasing trends. A slow fashion advocate will seek out brands and designers whose values align with their own.
Why Slow Fashion Matters
Slow fashion benefits the environment, garment workers, and individuals striving towards a more sustainable lifestyle.
The fashion industry, particularly the fast fashion sector, is responsible for an astounding amount of waste and pollution that negatively impacts the environment. According to the UN Environment Programme, the industry is responsible for almost 10% of all global carbon emissions.
It’s also tied to inhumane working conditions that perpetuate gender and economic inequality, especially in the global south. Fast fashion garment workers – many of whom are women and children – are often subject to unsafe work environments and are paid less than a living wage.
On a consumer level, fast fashion encourages overconsumption and excessive waste. It’s estimated that 92 million tonnes of clothing ends up in landfills each year. This constant buying cycle can lead to financial and mental stress, as shoppers continually chase the next ‘it’ item.
The slow fashion movement is a culmination of all of these issues. Designers and consumers want to make a positive change within the industry, and understand that the best way to do so is to take it slow.
How To Embrace The Slow Fashion Movement
Ready to get started? Here’s how you can join the slow fashion movement.
- Change your mindset. It can be difficult to adopt a slow approach to fashion if you’re used to chasing trends and shopping fast fashion brands. It takes time to unlearn old beliefs and patterns, and break away from the desire to constantly buy new items. You’ll need to understand the value of investing in timeless, high quality pieces that you can wear season after season, and treating clothing like something that’s truly valuable and long-lasting.
- Consume mindfully. With the right mindset, you’ll be able to consume mindfully. This means taking your time when you shop, carefully considering purchases, and only buying what you need rather than buying what you want. Before you buy anything, ask yourself if it’s something you really love and will wear regularly. This may mean waiting several hours, days, weeks, or even months before you buy a piece. It also entails doing your due diligence and research to ensure the item you’re interested in is ethically and sustainably made.
- Shop from slow fashion brands. Of course, you’ll want to buy from brands that share your passion. You don’t have to rebuild your wardrobe from scratch, but ensure any new pieces are coming from slow fashion brands that are also doing their part – like us! We create timeless designs that are made to be treasured for years to come, and prioritise the use of high quality fabrics that will last.
- Engage in proper garment care & mending. Prolong the life of your garments by giving them proper love and care. Make sure you’re washing and drying them according to their instructions, and store them in the right kind of environment. If you encounter minor issues or damages, try to mend and repair them instead of giving up. Small holes are easier to sew up than you think!
- Donate, sell, or swap what you don’t wear to reduce textile waste. If a garment has reached the end of its time with you, don’t just toss it in the bin. Consider selling it on a secondhand clothing platform, donating it to a charity shop, or organising a clothing swap if it’s still in good, wearable condition. If it’s unsalvageable, try an eligible textile recycling programme.
All of these changes won’t happen overnight, but that’s the beauty of slow fashion. It’s an evolution of mindset and application. Brands and consumers need to work together to make a difference, but with enough dedication, we can create a positive change in this often problematic industry. Will you be joining us?
