The fashion industry is known for being one of the most polluting industries. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the fast fashion business, which often involves producing low-quality clothing, providing poor working conditions for workers, and showing little concern for the environment and the future. From the production of garments to shipping and eventually disposing of them when people throw them away, pollution levels have skyrocketed.
Have you ever considered the potential negative effects of fast fashion on your health and the well-being of the workers involved in its production? While it may be beneficial for your wallet, the use of low-quality materials in fast fashion can lead to the spread of diseases. Additionally, the majority of production occurs in countries such as India and Pakistan, where workers receive inadequate social support and are often underpaid, particularly women. Child labor is also a major concern. Furthermore, these brands are not prioritizing the reduction of plastic usage, if at all.
Garments that are produced quickly and with low-quality materials are not likely to have a long lifespan. Moreover, due to their affordability, people tend to dispose of them without much thought. But have you ever considered where these discarded clothes end up? Often, they wind up in massive landfills in Ghana, causing harm and disruption to the lives of others.
It’s time to be less selfish and to care more about people, about the environment, and about the future.
Nowadays, in every fashion category, a lot of sustainable and ethical brands are being created; and the well-known ones are trying to improve themselves day by day.
There are a couple of intriguing jewelry brands worth exploring, such as Lavinia Fuksas and The World of Indah.
Lavinia Fuksas was established in 2020 with the goal of producing fancy jewelry from recycled materials while minimizing waste and safeguarding workers. Their collection features earrings, rings, bracelets, and necklaces made from certified gold and local embellishments and gemstones.
The World of Indah utilizes Indonesian techniques and upcycle materials to bring their creations to life. Behind these exquisite pieces lies a realm of spirituality, as the incorporation of crystals and gems can provide strength, protection, positivity, and love. You can sense the designer’s soul and thoughts through each item, including her dedication to slow fashion and environmental conservation.
Regarding fashion brands, Stella McCartney, Azalëa, and Mìu Sutìn are some good examples.
Stella McCartney was one of the first brands to propose other options instead of using leather and fur. All their garments are made of organic cotton, recycled polyester, and nylon. On the social front, in 2021 they started a campaign against deforestation, and in 2019 new rules and laws to protect the workers were added to their guidelines.
Azalëa specializes in high-quality and comfortable Prime Homewear. The designer combines only the finest OKEO-tex fabrics from Italy, France, and the USA to create their outfits. GOTS-certified organic bamboo is also a part of their pieces. The packaging is sophisticated and eco-friendly, with labels made from recycled polyester and organic cotton bags that can be washed and reused. The label is committed to social issues, especially about the treatment of women, and has established an ideal working environment for them. Additionally, 1% of the website profits are donated to organizations that assist refugees.
Miu Sutin places a high priority on providing clothing that is both high-quality and long-lasting. Their clothing is made from 80% sustainable, recycled, ecological, natural, and organic materials, including handmade fair-trade silk produced by local farmers. They also use bio-synthetic fabrics, recycled paper for tags and bags, and recycled cardboard for hangers. To reduce waste, they avoid using plastic wrapping and instead pack everything with tissue paper. Additionally, all of their garments are biodegradable.
