WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE FASHION?

SUSTAINABLE FASHION IS A CONSCIOUS AND RESPONSIBLE WAY OF DRESSING THAT CONSIDERS THE ENVIRONMENT, SOCIAL AND ETHICAL IMPACT OF THE FASHION INDUSTRY. IT AIMS TO MINIMISE HARM AND MAXIMISE POSITIVE OUTCOMES AT EVERY STAGE OF THE FASHION LIFE CYCLE.

At its core, suitable fashion promotes

  • Using clothes that already exist, whether that is by repairing, swapping or buying second hand to avoid them ending up in landfill.

  • Using eco-friendly materials.

  • Environmentally friendly processes by using sustainable manufacturing techniques. This includes reducing energy consumption, pollution, minimising waste and avoiding toxic chemicals.

  • Avoiding the fast fashion cycle and instead focuses on clothes that are high quality and made to last.

  • Fair labour practices for the entire supply chain, from farmers to factory workers.

Sustainable fashion also supports transparency and accountability to help people make an informed choice about the brands they support.

What is fast fashion?

Fast fashion is a term used to describe the fast production and consumption of cheap clothing that are often inspired by the latest fashion trends. They are typically lower quality, styles are short lived and often end up in landfills.

The fast fashion model is often used by high street brands where they over produce clothes at a fast pace and the impact is felt across the supply chain.

How can we make a difference?

Sustainable Fashion Week UK has created 4 easy steps to help everyone engage with sustainability in the fashion industry which we follow at WSFW.

  1. Reconnect:

  • Become an activist for change.

  • Connect with the local community and share knowledge.

  • Connect with the impact of over consumption and the process of how your clothing is made.

    2. Rewear

  • Invest in preloved clothing and avoid buying new

  • Host clothing swaps and share clothing with your network

  • Explore local renting schemes

  • Have pride in wearing clothes time and time again

    3. Regenerate

  • Choose organic, regenerative or recycled fibers if buying new

  • Check garment workers’ rights and wellbeing when you choose where to shop

  • Reject fast fashion

  • Wash and care for clothes

    4. Repurpose

  • Repair clothes and use them for longer

  • Keep textile waste out fo landfil by finding other uses for it

  • Create new clothing with pre-loved textiles.