Slow fashion is sometimes confusing. In a way, it is.
Put simply, slow fashion is simply the opposite of quick fashion. It incorporates an ecological approach and sensibility to fashion which considers the natural processes and resources necessary to create clothing, instead of consumer demand for a style that would often wear out or be damaging to the environment.
The Importance of Slow Fashion
Reusing and Recycling
One of the most important concepts of slow fashion, as it relates to sustainability, is the reduction of manufacturing waste through reusing and recycling.
The concept goes so far as to advocate for the reusing and recycling of many different products, including reusable bags, reusable wrappers, reusable buttons, and other items that can be easily and cheaply re-used by consumers.
The goal of the slow fashion movement is to reduce all of the resources that are consumed to produce new clothing and to also reduce the number of materials that are used in the production process itself.
A major component of the slow fashion movement is the practice of fabric recycling. It is a common practice within some communities to collect used garments, which can then be either re-dyed or simply repaired.
These garments are then either sold or re-used for other purposes. The repair of these old garments helps to save on the costs incurred in the production of new garments. Some communities choose to wear these old fabrics as everyday attire, while others even wear them during times of need.
The end result is a “buyer-friendly” method of purchasing that is beneficial both to the environment and the consumer.
Reduction of manufactured clothing
Another important concept of the slow fashion movement is the reduction of the use of manufactured clothing.
In this day and age, in most developed countries, the average household does not possess more than two pieces of clothing that are being worn at any given time. This means that textile manufacturers must rely upon the distribution of basic, essential, everyday clothing through more efficient means.
One of the ways that this is done is by the reduction of the amount of clothing that is manufactured, as well as the manufacture of garments in a manner that does not require the employment of more humans.
Less consumption of non-renewable resources
The concept of the slow fashion lifestyle is an environmental one as well. While the reduction of the number of materials being used in the production process is a positive thing overall, there is also the consideration that lessening the consumption of non-renewable resources could help to decrease the strain placed on our planet’s finite supplies of vital resources.
This is especially true when we take into consideration that the Earth’s non-renewable resources, as well as those that are used in the construction of new clothing and objects, will soon run out. If we do not do something about this impending calamity, our planet could be doomed.
Slow fashion as a lifestyle
In response to the issues raised by this particular form of lifestyle, the slow fashion movement has been developed. People involved in the slow fashion lifestyle ask us to respect the Earth, while at the same time promoting responsible use of resources.
By using products that are eco-friendly, we are helping to conserve certain types of natural fibers and fabrics that are no longer being used in the construction of clothing, as well as certain types of non-renewable resources.
Because these fibers and fabrics are no longer needed, it is not necessary to produce them, thus saving on the number of natural resources that must be harvested and utilized.
Through the slow fashion movement, people who choose to live this kind of lifestyle are helping to ensure that future generations have a sustainable world in which to live.
Because the production of all clothing and items that are part of the slow fashion lifestyle is environmentally responsible, the end product often provides much higher quality than most mass-produced clothing does.
By wearing garments that last longer and are more durable, people feel better about themselves, both personally and professionally. When wearing a garment that is going to last, you are not only showing your attitude towards fashion but also about how you treat the Earth.
And by choosing a sustainable fashion choice, you are actually choosing a lifestyle that will benefit the Earth for many years to come. Many consumers are beginning to feel more comfortable with the idea of living this lifestyle, and slow fashion may very well continue to grow in popularity for the foreseeable future.
A great way to show off your love of eco-friendly fashion and the slow fashion lifestyle is to make your own garments. There are a number of websites on the Internet where you can purchase items made from recycled materials, such as denim, old clothes, or cotton.
By making your own garments, you will be able to ensure that the clothing you are wearing is not only sustainable, but it is also longer lasting than what would be available from mass-produced retailers.
If you want to be involved in the slow fashion movement, one of the easiest ways to do so is to create your own hand-crafted garments. Not only will you be helping to protect the environment, but you will be able to proudly display your fashion sense to all of your friends!
