Get Started with Slow Fashion: A Simple Guide
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The fashion industry is a whirlwind of constant change, making it easy to feel overwhelmed by the ever-growing list of buzzwords (like circular fashion, eco-fashion, and sustainable fashion).
Navigating this fast-paced world can be confusing, but don't worry — you're not alone in feeling this way!
While these buzzwords might differ slightly, they all aim to reduce the fashion industry’s environmental footprint.
So what is “slow fashion” exactly, and how can you join the movement? We’re here to tackle the term and explain why slowing fashion down is critical to protect people and this planet. Consider this your fun, high-level FAQ page for all things slow fashion!
My hope is that it will spark your curiosity and lead you to discover more resources and ways to embrace a sustainable and stylish approach to your existing wardrobe.
Let's cut through the jargon and dive into the wonderful (and straightforward) world of slow fashion!
Just a quick note: some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which come at no extra cost to you but help us continue to create good, helpful content. Thank you for your support!
What Does Slow Fashion Actually Mean?
Slow fashion is all about taking a thoughtful and sustainable approach to what we wear. It means choosing high-quality, timeless pieces instead of chasing trend after trend (Hello, TikTok microtrends).
Rather than buying clothes that fall apart after a few wears, slow fashion focuses on garments that are made to last, with a deep respect for the people and resources involved in their production.
Simply put, it's the opposite of fast fashion — it's about designing, producing, consuming, and living better, with an awareness of the impact on workers, communities, and ecosystems.
For my fashion history nerds out there, the term “slow fashion” was coined by Kate Fletcher, a fashion and sustainability pioneer inspired by the slow food movement of the 1980s.
“Fast fashion isn’t really about speed, but greed: selling more, making more money,” Fletcher wrote in The Ecologist.
“Time is just one factor of production, along with labour, capital and natural resources that get juggled and squeezed in the pursuit of maximum profits,” she says.
In a nutshell, slow fashion is all about:
Quality Over Quantity: Slow fashion advocates for buying fewer, better-quality garments that last longer.
Ethical Production: It ensures fair treatment of workers and ecosystems throughout the entire supply chain.
Environmental Responsibility: Focuses on sustainable materials and processes — aims to reduce the industry’s environmental footprint.
Mindful Consumption: It encourages repairing, swapping, thrifting, and renting clothing to extend its lifecycle.
How Does Slow Fashion Differ From Fast Fashion?
Unlike fast fashion, which is all about rapid production and turnover of the latest trends (often at the expense of workers’ rights and the environment), slow fashion focuses on creating garments that last.
It’s about investing in high-quality, timeless pieces made with ethical labor practices and eco-friendly materials.
Slow fashion and sustainable (or ethical) fashion are closely related, but slow fashion focuses explicitly on reducing consumption and production. It essentially calls us back to a time when clothing was a long-term investment rather than a disposable commodity.
While fast fashion brands like H&M and SHEIN flood the market with cheaply made new styles daily, slow fashion encourages us to buy less and choose well.
Why Is Slow Fashion Important?
The short answer is that slow fashion tackles significant issues like the environmental impact of clothing production, poor working conditions in garment factories, and the massive waste generated by fast fashion.
The longer answer? We're constantly bombarded by ads and influencers showing us the latest products we “can’t be without.” If we’re going to participate (no shame in that, it’s all good in moderation), why not make our choices count?
I’m all about making small, slow, and attainable lifestyle adjustments, so why not use the slow fashion philosophy as a guide when shopping? These seemingly small decisions (like buying secondhand or repairing your clothing) can compound and make a significant impact.
In fact, major companies — from high-end brands to fast-fashion giants — are starting to listen to consumers. By embracing slow fashion, we’re showing that our mindful choices can drive meaningful change and shape the fashion industry's future.
How Can I Start Practicing Slow Fashion?
Ready to dip your toes into slow fashion? It’s easier than you might think!
More people are becoming aware of the fashion industry’s problems, but there’s still plenty of work to be done. Despite knowing the environmental impact, many continue to shop fast fashion because it’s so convenient (hello, Amazon) and cheap.
But guess what? Supporting slow fashion can be just as easy — and you don’t even have to buy anything new to get started!
Small, thoughtful changes can make a massive difference.
If you’re anything like me, you love a good, easy-to-follow list. Here’s how you can start practicing slow fashion:
Taking a step back: Before buying something new, ask yourself if you really need it or if you can shop your closet for a forgotten piece that just needs a little TLC.
Buying fewer, better-quality pieces: Instead of six cheap polyester tops, choose one or two high-quality pieces made from sustainable materials like organic cotton or linen.
Shopping for secondhand or vintage: (*cough, cough* *wink, wink*).
Following your clothing’s care label instructions: Before chucking your clothes in the washer or dryer, read those care labels — they help prolong the life of your garments. I’d also recommend air drying your laundry!
Repairing or upcycling: YouTube and TikTok are the best resources when it comes to getting inspiration for repairing and upcycling!
Gifting or donating: Not sure what to do with that dress your aunt so graciously gifted you? Regifting it to someone who may treasure it more or donating it to a local thrift or charity shop is a great way to prolong its lifecycle.
Supporting brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices: Quick caveat…greenwashing is VERY prevalent in the “slow fashion” industry, so make sure “sustainable” or “ethically-made” brands explicitly talk about the impact its products have on a social and environmental level (you can email them if it’s not clear)!
What Are Some Examples of Slow Fashion Brands?
Identifying a slow fashion brand gets easier when you know what to look for. Slow fashion brands typically prioritize sustainable practices and ethical labor standards, focusing on quality over quantity.
Some brands that are often cited as leaders in the slow fashion movement include Patagonia, Eileen Fisher, and Stella McCartney, all known for their commitment to sustainability and ethical labor practices.
Personally, I love supporting slow fashion brands like LOTI, Christy Dawn, and Nisolo. These brands not only produce some of the most beautiful, high-quality clothing and shoes but also ensure that its practices are kind to both people and the planet.
Here’s how to spot a slow fashion brand:
High-Quality, Low-Impact Materials: Look for garments made from sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, linen, and recycled materials.
Timeless Designs: Slow fashion focuses on classic styles that last rather than trendy pieces that quickly go out of style.
Smaller, Local Stores: These brands are often found in boutique shops rather than large chain stores. Etsy is also great marketplace to connect with small businesses that prioritize people and the planet.
Locally Sourced and Produced: They source, produce, and sell their items locally to reduce their carbon footprint.
Limited Collections: Slow fashion brands typically release few, specific styles per collection, often only twice or three times a year.
Made-to-Order: This reduces unnecessary overproduction and waste.
Slow Fashion Resources
Slow fashion and sustainability aren’t linear or perfect journeys. I won't pretend to understand or be an expert on the topic fully, but I can share some fantastic resources that have helped me learn and grow.
Exploring these resources can deepen your understanding and help you become a more informed advocate. (We LOVE to see that!)
By tapping into these resources, you’ll expand your knowledge and be better equipped to make mindful choices and advocate for a more sustainable fashion industry.
Resources to help get you started:
Books: “The Conscious Closet: The Revolutionary Guide to Looking Good While Doing Good” and “Overdressed: The Shockingly High Cost of Cheap Fashion" by Elizabeth L. Cline, and "Fashionopolis: The Price of Fast Fashion and the Future of Clothes" by Dana Thomas are incredibly practical and informative reads on the impacts of fast fashion and the slow fashion movement.
Documentaries: "The True Cost" is a powerful documentary that exposes the dark realities of the fashion industry and the benefits of embracing slow fashion.
Websites and Blogs: Sites like "Fashion Revolution" and "Good On You" offer a wealth of information on sustainable fashion practices, ethical brands, and resources for you to dive into!
Podcasts: “Conscious Chatter” and “Conscious Style Podcast” are fun, interesting, and practical podcasts for staying up to date on the latest in sustainable fashion.
Social Media: Follow influencers and activists who advocate for slow fashion, such as Lily (@imperfectidealist), Aditi Mayer (@aditimayer), Marielle Elizabeth (@marielle.elizabeth), and Venetia La Manna (@venetialamanna), to keep your feed inspiring and educational.
