by Alice Bacon, Brentwood Bay Village Empourium –
‘Fashion changes, but style endures.” The words of designer Coco Chanel could be a touchstone for anyone torn between a desire for self-expression through clothing while wanting to do the right thing for the planet and its people.
The fashion industry has earned a reputation for being one of the least sustainable industries in the modern world. Among the deadly sins of the clothing industry are: rampant use of chemicals and pesticides; excessive water consumption; pollution in manufacturing and disposal; and all-too-common exploitative, hazardous work environments. “Fast fashion” – inexpensive designs which move quickly from the catwalk to stores to meet weekly trends – lures consumers into buying far more clothing than the average closet can hold.
In the words of Isaac Newton: ”Every action has an equal and opposite reaction.” Therefore it’s no surprise that the ”Slow Fashion” movement has evolved, espousing a new clothing industry that is defined by its commitment to good quality and fair treatment of people, animals and the planet.
But since Sir Isaac is remembered more for his contributions to the scientific revolution than for the fabulous frock he wore to his knighthood, this noble response presents a challenge for those of us who want to express ourselves and look great, but not kill the planet. So, what’s a modern day stylista ethica to do?
Define your style: Know who you are and choose clothing that reflects the real YOU. I will probably be wearing a hair bandana, long tunic and Converse sneakers at my funeral. And, yes, they will be black. One of the most stylish women I have ever known stayed true to her “Boho” roots from the 60s until her recent death at the age of 92. Antoinette always had perfectly pedicured toes, expertly applied red lipstick, fabulous, abundant silver jewelry and comfortable, cotton clothing. So don’t lay awake at night worrying if you are on trend; the late, great Karl Lagerfield reminded us that ”Trendy is the last stage before tacky.”
Buy less: It’s fair to say that we all look for instant gratification from time to time. But if you find yourself buying an item of clothing to fill a hole in your life – if you are hungry, lonely, depressed or having a crisis of self esteem – stop. And think. You don’t need a souvenir of that lousy headspace. Have a coffee or a nap (or both!) and if when you come around and still really want those sparkly jelly shoes, then maybe it is about fulfilling your genuine style goals and not simply about retail therapy.
Upcycle: It’s a trend that we hope is here to stay – thrift store finds can be transformed into something better than before. Reap the benefits of keeping clothes out of the landfill, luxuriate in cotton that has been exorcised of traces of pesticides, all the while supporting local charities. Win-win-win.
Choose well: By selecting sustainable fabrics like merino wool and organic cotton, choosing brands that have proven fair-trade practises and shopping local, you are making positive contributions to the environment, the economy and human-kind.
And that will look very good on you.
