Sustainable fashion today is a highly debated and increasingly covered topic among the world’s media. More and more clothing companies are transforming their business models and improving their supply chains to be more sustainable.
Buying less and buying better is the smarter way for modern consumers. The reality is, ethical fashion, which is a part of sustainable fashion as a whole, often cost more. This reflects the true cost of using materials that are less damaging to the planet, made in factories that are safe to work in, have better eco-credentials and pay fairer wages to their employees. Ethics and sustainability are more of a spectrum than a hard line between right and wrong.
There are two perspectives on sustainable fashion: brands and consumers point of view.
For brands, this means producing in a way that is most considerate towards humanity and the environment. The goal is to have a system that works without leaving a negative footprint.
As consumers, this means thinking about what you buy, knowing which philosophies you are supporting through your purchases, and asking yourself if you are really going to wear that new piece versus the piece’s production value as a whole.
Sustainable fashion covers seven fundamental aspects that should ideally dictate every new garment produced. Each garment should be manufactured, first, on demand or custom-made; second, in high quality and timeless design; third, in an environmentally friendly manner; and four, with consideration to various ethical aspects. Consequently, five, it should have a long usage period through good care, repair and perhaps redesign, and when the product is no longer desired, six, it should be handed in to a second-hand shop, donated to charity or handed over to friends or relatives to prolong its active life. When the garment is completely worn out, it should be returned to a collection point for recycling. Ideally, instead of buying newly produced clothes, one should consider renting, borrowing or swapping clothes, or seven, to buy second-hand or vintage.
Most Valued Business (MVB) Indonesia together with BINUS University will host a seminar discussing “Sustainable Fashion, Textiles and Retail” on July 31st, at Binus Northumbria fX Sudirman. The seminar will cover existing ideas about the scope and potential of sustainability issues in fashion, textiles and retail industries, and sets out a more pluralistic, engaging and forward-looking picture, human needs, local products, slow fashion and participatory design as well as knowledge of materials.
For the first time, this seminar will bring together information about lifecycle sustainability impacts of fashion and textiles, practical alternatives, design concepts and retail innovation. Save your seat at this seminar by registering now to miranda@phoenix.co.id
