Fashion, Evolved

Change.

President Obama ran a ground-breaking campaign based on it.  Taco Bell assures us that it is good.  The Buddha said that our reluctance to accept it is the cause of all suffering.  Most of us realize that some kind of change needs to happen in the world today if we hope to improve our individual and collective existence.  But change is simply a tool–without conscious thought and a plan of action, it can cause damage by bringing anarchy and confusion.

The question is:  What can we change in our own lives that will really make a difference?

The answer is:  Our clothes.

No, I’m not being glib.  We all have a multitude of daily worries and concerns:  work, school, family, cooking, cleaning, spirituality, health, fitness…few of us are in a position to drop everything and “change the world” in some dramatic way; rather, the changes we make must be a part of our lives, integrating seamlessly into our existing routines.

One very profound way we can do this is by consciously buying clothing that is ethically made and manufactured; and supporting small, independent businesses that are creating, marketing and selling it.  Our demand for this type of clothing will result in the necessary changes to an industry that has long been guilty of drastic wage disparity, sweat-shop labor, toxic farming practices and the mass exportation of local industry to other countries.

You don’t have to go out and buy something RIGHT NOW.  Just wait until you’re ready to buy a new dress or a new pair of shoes.  And then make your choice by weighing all the options (not just the price or the brand name).  Next time you’re ready to shop for shoes, clothes, handbags, accessories or cosmetics ask yourself:

1.  Was this product made by an adult earning a fair wage?

2.  Was this product made using materials that were grown or developed with unsafe chemicals and/or toxic processes?

3.  Was this product made in a country that supports human rights?

4.  Was this product sold by a company that takes care of its responsibilities to its employees and the communities that support it?

The fashion industry is changing from the inside out–but there is no greater catalyst, and no better way to speed up the process–than a robust consumer demand.  We are lucky enough to be at a point where we don’t have to sacrifice style for our ethics.  There are many sustainable designers and retailers devoting themselves to fashion with a conscience.  All we have to do is make the best choices we can when the time comes.

Are you ready to change your clothes?