Rethinking fashion in the age of sustainability
Is it just me, or has fashion, a cornerstone of self-expression and cultural commentary, undergoing a significant shift? While fleeting trends and impulsive purchases haven't entirely disappeared, there's a growing awareness among consumers. This translates into conscious efforts towards a more sustainable future for fashion. It’s not just designers opting for sustainable methods (case in point the GenZ designers at NYFW), but also consumers. It’s either something happened to my social media algorithm, but there is this paradigm shift when it comes to fashion. Sustainable fashion is not just a buzzword anymore, it’s more a conscious approach to consuming clothing that prioritizes ethics, environmental responsibility, and, importantly, style.
The Age of Abundance and its Aftermath
The last couple of years had this rise in fast fashion, a model predicated on churning out trendy garments at breakneck speed and razor-thin prices. While this made fashion more accessible to a certain extent, it came at a heavy cost. Textile waste piled up in landfills, questionable labor practices came to light, and the environmental impact of mass production became undeniable. There’s a whole documentary about this, if you don’t know about it, look for The True Cost of Fashion.
A Mindful Revolution
Back to that algorithm thing I was talking about, I have come to notice the shift in the fashion paradigm, a lot of it towards sustainable fashion. Personally, i have had a love hate relationship with minimalism, so I am constantly looking at other options to keep things interesting, but also whilst being sustainable. I have dabbled with a few things and have made note of some really cool concepts and most of them I have tried.
The Rental Revolution - This is possibly one of my favorite things that have been a complete game changer. I go to a lot of events and absolutely hate it when I buy something and never wear it again. Which is why clothing rentals are my favorite. Dubai has quite a few, but my honorable mentions (tried and tested) go to Sizters, Endless, and Best Kept Shared, I’ve also had my eye on Westlend and hoping to try them out soon. I have found their platforms to be very user-friendly with various selections, and some even come with a try-on service- think glamorous gowns to head-turning cocktail dresses – that you can wear for a fraction of the cost. It's perfect for indulging in luxury without the commitment or the environmental impact. Plus, you get to rock a killer outfit knowing it won't be gathering dust in your closet after one night.
Secondhand Chic – Buying pre-owned from some platforms, you get a curated selection of pre-loved clothing, often meticulously chosen for quality and style. These stores breathe new life into pre-existing garments, diverting them from landfills and promoting a circular fashion economy. Some of the stores I mentioned on rentals also offer the option to buy these pre-owned items which is quite a good deal. One I have been meaning to check out in Dubai is Retold. They have shown up on my timeline quite a few times and they seem to have quite an interesting inventory, worth checking out… I should check it out!
Vintage Voyage – Vintage clothing isn't just retro; it's a testament to timeless design and quality craftsmanship. From perfectly preserved mid-century dresses to classic Levis that only get better with age, vintage stores offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of fashion history and cultivate a distinct aesthetic. And on plugging platforms that I have seen are promoting this and are doing a pretty good job at it, there’s something I have come across called SoMuchTrouble. I absolutely love the concept as it fuses the shopping experience with something to sip on!
Upcycle Revolution – Unleashing your inner artist, upcycling involves transforming pre-loved garments into something entirely new. A well-placed snip, a dash of dye, or a creative embellishment can breathe new life into old clothes, fostering a sense of individuality and reducing textile waste. You don’t really have to do this at home either, there are upcycling labs that you can utilize to do this, or simply go to a tailor and let them know you are switching up your old garment.
Beyond the Outfit: The Ethical Marketplace
So, sustainable fashion pretty much extends beyond your wardrobe. Dubai is witnessing a surge in ethical marketplaces and homegrown brands committed to fair labor practices and eco-friendly materials. By supporting these businesses, you're not just acquiring a beautiful garment, you're contributing to a more responsible and equitable fashion industry. This journey towards sustainable fashion is about more than just clothes; it's about cultivating a mindful and empowered approach to self-expression.
