From Fast Fashion to Timeless Pieces: How Sustainable Brands Are Leading the Change
We all express ourselves in different ways. Some do it through art, some through writing, some through conversation, and then there are those who do it through their clothing. Fashion has always been a big part of culture and the human experience in general. Though trends have changed significantly throughout history, the fact that clothing is a part of us remains a fact.
With the growing concerns surrounding environmentalism and the impact of different industries on the climate, many markets are turning towards sustainable resources. The fashion industry is no different. In this article, we are looking at sustainable fashion, comparing it to fast fashion, and discussing how environment-friendly brands might just be the way forward.
What is Sustainable Fashion?
As you can probably guess, sustainable fashion is the idea that the fashion industry should be reducing its environmental waste, and focus on a greener market. But, it is so much more than that. The term is often used as a catch-all for overall improvements in fashion. We are talking about things like worker protection, animal welfare, reduction of pollution and waste, and fair wages. All of these concerns fall under the phrase “sustainable fashion.”
Of course, many people are concerned about issues with the environment, and how different industries impact it. A lot of us are doing our best to remain eco-friendly, while still expressing ourselves through our wardrobe. There are also those who are looking to become eco-friendlier, but simply don’t know where to start. Sustainable brands should be your first choice. So, let’s take a look at how you can recognize a sustainable fashion brand.
The first step is to look for certifications, and do a thorough background check. There are plenty of companies out there that do good work in validating industries as eco-friendly. The two big ones are the Global Organic Textile Standard, as well as Fair Trade. Both organizations have done wonders in ensuring that sustainable fashion brands keep their promises regarding waste reduction, fair wages, and environmentalist-friendly articles of clothes.
The Advantages of Sustainable Fashion
We are now aware of what sustainable fashion is, and one of the key factors in recognizing it. But, some may ask what the pros of going the sustainable route are. On the top of the list is, of course, contributing to a greener, more environmentally aware world. Believe it or not, the fashion industry greatly contributes to overconsumption of natural resources, water and air pollution, and greenhouse gas emission. Participating in the sustainable fashion trend is a good way to further the cause of a brighter and safer future for everyone.
But, it isn’t a fully selfless act. In fact, those who purchase sustainably get a pretty good reward. For one, the clothing they wear are of much higher quality. Sustainable fashion brands do their best to provide their customers with top-quality garments. Not only do they feel more comfortable, but they also last longer, thus reducing waste. On top of it all, you can be certain that the workers who designed and created your clothes were treated fairly, and given a fair wage for their labor.
There is, however, a pretty big downside to sustainable fashion. The main reason that sustainable fashion brands are not as widely sold as fast fashion articles has to do with the costs. Due to using premium materials, sustainable fashion brands must charge a lot more cash than fast fashion markets. At first, it may seem like you are paying more, which puts people off. However, when you think about the fact that sustainable clothes last longer, you will discover that these customers come out on top.
What is Fast Fashion?
We’ve brought up fast fashion in this article a few times, but have not yet defined it as a term. Well, the phrase refers to the fast response that certain brands have to the latest trends in the fashion industry. Basically, fast fashion brands provide quick and cost-effective access to current trends. Some may recognize the term “knock-off brands.” While fast fashion does not always deal with knock-offs, it is somewhat related, as it provides a cheaper alternative to the latest fad.
To recognize a fast fashion product, you need only examine the label and material. Fast fashion brands usually use non-eco-friendly materials, such as spandex, acrylic, or polyester, which do have a negative impact on the environment. It is also worth investigating the brand behind these clothes, to see what their commitment to ethical practices is.
The Advantages of Fast Fashion
Though fast fashion may not be of the same high quality as sustainable fashion, there are certain advantages that you can expect to see from the industry. First and foremost is affordability. Fast fashion articles are usually quite cheap, while still managing to maintain a certain level of trendiness and appeal. Fast fashion brands are a lot more inclusive, as they give everyone an opportunity to look their absolute best, at any time.
The second advantage is right there in the name. Fast fashion is fast. Brands provide a very quick response to some of the latest trends. It is even possible now and again for fast fashion brands to get ahead of the big names in the industry, and release articles of clothing that noteworthy brands have not even displayed yet. Couple that with the affordability, as well as the variety of clothes by fast fashion brands, and we can’t deny that there are reasons to go for fast fashion.
Final Thoughts
There is no denying that fast fashion is convenient. However, the growing popularity of sustainable fashion shows that many people are looking for something more than simple convenience. A lot of average citizens are becoming increasingly interested in the fight to preserve the environment, and end the exploitation of workers. For that reason, sustainable brands seem to be the future, not just in the fashion world, but in the broader industry world in general.