Fashion Revolution: Transforming the Fashion Industry

Kia ora, fashion lovers!

Today, we’re going to talk about a topic that’s very important – Fashion Revolution. So, grab a cup of coffee, put on your comfy clothes, and let’s get started!

What is the Fashion Revolution?

Fashion Revolution is a global movement that started in 2013 after the Rana Plaza factory collapse in Bangladesh, where over 1,100 garment workers lost their lives and injured approx 2500 others. The movement’s goal is to raise awareness about the social and environmental impacts of the fashion industry and promote a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry. This tragedy was a wake-up call for the fashion industry and consumers alike, highlighting the need for transparency, accountability, and ethical practices in the fashion supply chain.

Why is Fashion Revolution important?

The fashion industry is the second-largest polluter in the world, after the oil industry. The production of clothing contributes to the pollution of water, air, and soil, and the use of synthetic materials and chemicals is harmful to human health. Additionally, many garment workers are paid very low wages and work in unsafe and unfair conditions.

Fashion Revolution aims to change this by encouraging consumers to ask questions about where and how their clothes are made and promoting transparency in the fashion industry.

How can you get involved in Fashion Revolution?

As a New Zealand woman, you may be wondering what you can do to be a part of this movement and help transform the fashion industry. Here are some ways you can get involved:

Take a selfie and ask #whomademyclothes

On April 24th each year, Fashion Revolution Week begins. Take a selfie wearing your favourite outfit and ask the brand who made your clothes using the hashtag #whomademyclothes on social media. This simple action can help raise awareness about the importance of transparency in the fashion industry.

Free printable here ~ https://www.fashionrevolution.org/resources/free-downloads/

Shop second-hand

Instead of buying new clothes, try shopping second-hand. Not only is it more sustainable, but it’s also a fun way to find unique pieces and save money. Check out your local thrift store or online second-hand shops, including Recycle Boutique, Crushes Vintage and Tatty's.

Choose sustainable brands

When you do buy new clothes, choose sustainable brands that use eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing practices. There are many New Zealand brands that prioritise sustainability and ethical production. Brands like, of course, Ames Store, Kowtow, Hei Hei, and Awwa.

Support local designers

Support local designers who create unique and sustainable clothing. By buying from local designers, you’re supporting the New Zealand fashion industry and reducing the environmental impact of international shipping. 

Learn more

Educate yourself about the fashion industry and its impact on the environment and workers. Fashion Revolution’s website is a great resource for learning about sustainable and ethical fashion.

Care for Your Clothes

One of the most significant factors contributing to the fashion industry's impact on the environment is the way we care for our clothes. Washing and drying clothes uses a lot of energy and water, and it can also cause clothing to wear out more quickly.

To reduce the impact of your clothes, try to wash them less frequently and use cold water when you do wash them. Hang dry your clothes instead of using a dryer, and consider using eco-friendly laundry detergents.

Choose quality over quantity

Fast fashion is a major contributor to the fashion industry's negative impact on the environment. It's tempting to buy cheap clothes, but they often fall apart quickly and end up in landfills. Instead, invest in quality pieces that will last longer and can be worn in multiple ways.

Repair, reuse, and recycle

If your clothes are damaged or no longer fit, don't throw them away. Try to repair them or repurpose them into something new. You can also recycle them through clothing recycling programs or donate them to charity.

Fashion Revolution is a fun and educational way to make a difference in the world. By asking questions about where and how your clothes are made and choosing sustainable and ethical brands, you can help create a more sustainable and fair fashion industry. So, let’s join the revolution, one outfit at a time!

Ames would love to hear your thoughts, please comment below.