Over-consumption seems to have reached its limits, in the fashion industry as well: Fast Fashion is entering its decline phase. Conscientious customers are now turning to clean clothes, shoes and accessories that embody strong ethical values. Adopting a sustainable behavior while remaining fashionable is materialized by the preference for ecological materials, organic labels, or second-hand pieces, but other tracks exist… and are within reach of our own dressings. Exploration!
Clothes bulimics always tend to want to inspect other people’s wardrobes, hence the keen interest in dressing rooms; but why not exploit the wealth of our own closets?
The purchase of quality clothes, timeless basics, is a good indicator of a long-lasting wardrobe, but it is also necessary to know how to maintain them to prolong their life. Delaying their deterioration becomes possible by getting informed, encouraging a few daily reflexes, as well as perfecting one’s dexterity.
Regulate the use of the washing machine, dryer, respect the temperature recommendations, learn to sew, mend or customize…and pamper your favorite pieces! You can wash the little cashmere sweater in the machine, but it is better to wash it cold, without fabric softener, by placing it in a laundry net. Do not wash your silk stoles in hot water, prefer a gentle hand wash, with a few drops of white vinegar in the rinsing water to fix the colours, then dry them flat, away from light and heat. Nothing too complicated!
New and flourishing businesses are also emerging around extending the shelf life of products. These entrepreneurs are inventing an innovative business model based solely on the upcycling of your cherished pieces.
“Sneakersnchill” or “Old New Shoes”, thanks to an embellishing, cleaning, repairing or customization work, will bring your old sneakers back to life.
“Repair Jean” works to save your old denim by replacing defective rivets or buttons, repairing wear and tears, or adapting your old jeans to your new shape.
The luxury industry is no exception to the trend, “La Clinique du Sac” restores bags and accessories from major houses such as Hermès, Vuitton or Chanel. Highly qualified specialists restore your leather goods to their original state or create custom-made designs.
Sneakersnchill
All these initiatives aim to limit the impact of the textile industry on the environment. The circular economy is still a recent concept, but let’s hope that the collective consciousness is awakening a little faster than that of our forefathers, since Antoine Laurent Lavoisier’s maxim “Nothing is lost, nothing is created, everything is transformed” was pronounced for the first time in the 18th century…but let’s remain optimistic!
If you are interested in sustainable development in fashion, do not hesitate to inquire about the Bachelor Fashion Sustainability or the Short Course Upcycling Fashion offered by IFA Paris.