slow fashion
The idea of slow fashion has been pioneered by academic Kate Fletcher.
She tells us that, ‘Slow fashion is about designing, producing, consuming and living better. Slow fashion is not time-based but quality-based - it is a different approach in which designers, buyers, retailers and consumers are more aware of the impacts of products on workers, communities and ecosystems. It allows suppliers to plan orders, predict the numbers of workers needed and invest in the longer term. It gives companies time to build mutually beneficial relationships. Of course, quality is going to cost more. We will design fewer high-value, slow-to-consume products. A fairer distribution of this ticket price through the supply chain is an intrinsic part of this quality-driven agenda. Slow design is about a richer interaction between designer and maker; maker and garment; garment and user. Slow fashion is a glimpse of a different - and more sustainable - future for the textile and clothing sector and an opportunity for business to be done in a way that respects workers, environment and consumers in equal measure'.
Further information:
- Read more about slow fashion in the Fashioning an Ethical Industry factsheet 13:Slow fashion.
- Learn more about Kate's work on her website www.katefletcher.com
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