What is slow fashion?

To answer this question, I think the first step is understanding the idea of fast fashion. If you haven’t heard the terminology, it is basically the idea that clothing has become disposable. It is now rare for people to keep a few articles of quality clothing until they are really worn out. The norm is to buy new, often cheap, garments frequently. Our closets are much more cluttered than previous generations, and we throw away a ridiculous amount of clothing that is still usable. Look around online for a few minutes and you can find statistics about the amount of textiles filling up landfills. Textile manufacturing involves inhumane labor conditions, awful pollution, and a constant marketing push that says, “buy more, keep up with the trends.”

The slow fashion movement is fighting back. It says, “buy less, wear it more, be intentional, waste less.”

Shopping secondhand is a great way to reuse clothing that is already out there instead of funding a broken fashion industry.

Learning the art of mending is a skill that can make what you have last longer. When I say art, I mean it. There are some amazingly creative people using scrap fabric, needle felting, or embroidery to turn holes and rips into custom clothing art.

Upcycling is another trend that amazes me. Creativity and a bit of skill with a sewing machine can turn a simple piece of clothing into something amazing.

Look into local, or at least American made, garments. If you don’t have the skills (yet!), you can support local artisans and family businesses that are striving to produce ethically made, quality garments that will last you for years.

Don’t be overwhelmed. Make it fun. Read Chasing Perfect and know that Legacy Market is here to help!