Ethical fashion: a cause to defend
Why is fashion not a lost cause?
It's become commonplace; hardly a day goes by without articles denouncing the excesses of the fashion industry, and fast fashion in particular. Indeed, it's true that, in some cases, and through certain irresponsible actions, fashion pollutes the environment or exploits the human capital of developing countries. However, awareness has grown so significantly in recent years that the trend is gradually changing, and many players are leading a real revolution to transform this sector, which inspires so much dreams, into a responsible and sustainable one. This is what we now call "ethical fashion." At JULES & JENN , we firmly believe in this movement, and we work every day, on our own scale, towards responsible and sustainable fashion . And let's face it, you can love fashion and make the world a better place! There are ways for you to contribute, and we're here to help!
Before the solutions, a brief initial observation!
What is most often criticized about fashion today is not so much the fact that it changes, but rather the fact that it changes extremely rapidly, pushing customers to renew their wardrobes in order to generate more profit. The large groups dominating the sector certainly hold an economic monopoly on a certain type of fashion. But fashion, as a social and artistic phenomenon, extends far beyond this framework. It also exists outside of multinational textile companies, in a multitude of other forms.
Okay, that being said... let's be realistic! It is and always will be impossible to completely boycott these powerful industrial giants. However, it is urgent to act and fight against the environmental and human consequences of their actions.
Fashion isn't just about fast fashion! So, let's wake up, stop being swept away by today's consumer society, and take control of our consciousness! Let's look beyond our own noses, because there are plenty of other types of fashion: independent artisans and designers, small (or large) responsible brands, ethical fashion... Not to mention sewing and knitting that we can do ourselves!
Choose Slow Fashion... Boycott Fast Fashion!
A movement has gained momentum: Slow Fashion . At JULES & JENN , we're participating in our own way by offering timeless, high-quality pieces at fair prices! This fashion stands in opposition to the excesses of fast fashion, championing sustainability over disposability!
It's perfectly possible to continue loving clothes by using other options. And above all, by changing your mindset. Yes, there's no magic bullet that allows us to love fashion in an eco-friendly and ethical way without questioning our habits. It's primarily about self-reflection! And if we want ethical and eco-friendly fashion, we have to accept paying the true price of a garment! Good quality clothing and fashion accessories that respect the environment and people are inevitably more expensive than those from fast fashion.
Fortunately, there are plenty of options available, whatever your budget! It's entirely possible to treat yourself while drastically reducing your environmental footprint without breaking the bank. This mindset is perfectly summed up by the British designer Vivienne Westwood: “ Buy less, choose better, make things last. ”
How to choose what you buy wisely?
1. Pay attention to the materials . The composition of a garment or accessory is always indicated on the label. Obviously, it's best to choose the least polluting materials and, if possible, locally produced items.
2. Choose QUALITY. Always! It's a worthwhile investment because it will last over time; no need to change it every season! Follow this famous saying: "Time is money!"
3. Consider washing conditions . Avoid clothes that require “dry cleaning”, for example, because this process uses products that are very harmful to the environment and health.
4. Finding the right brands . Ethical and ecological brands are not yet very numerous, but they are multiplying rapidly!
5. Support craftsmanship and small businesses . Independent artisans and designers offer original, yet timeless, designs that you won't see on everyone!
6. Look at the labels . There are quite a few: here is a short, non-exhaustive list
When you buy quality at the right price, it changes absolutely everything!
I can see what you're thinking: " Yes, but ethical and responsible fashion is so outdated! There's nothing trendy about it, and it's absolutely not aesthetically pleasing! "
JULES & JENN would reply: " Oh really?!... And what about our timeless pieces, for example ?!" Okay... It's not always easy to find brands or items that meet all ethical, ecological, and aesthetic criteria... So let's just do our best!
You see, fashion is far from being a lost cause if, together, we apply good practices and buy consciously!
So, shall we get started in 2017? It's never too late, quite the contrary!
