It’s something I have never thought about. Clothing and where it comes from has never crossed my mind. If I needed something, I went out and bought it, looking for the best deal I could find.
Then a movie made me think. The movie is “The True Cost.”
This is a serious, very dramatic movie about how the fashion industry can cause unbelievable harm in some of the poorest countries in the world. The cost is incredibly high. An industry that creates billions of dollars in profit does so on the backs severely underpaid workers, in unsustainable conditions.
This isn’t to say you should never buy clothes. It is simply an example of something we can change, by changing our buying habits.
But, we’re going to ask you to think through that too.
When you buy new, try looking for a more sustainable brand. Perhaps you can save some money with one of the above ideas to splurge on something that is more ethically produced. There are many online sources but here are a few ideas to get you started.
Their store in the 50th and France neighborhood on the Minneapolis/Edina border produces yoga clothes and athletic wear, along with some more casual clothing. Their mission strives to “minimize the impact on the environment and what it means for future generations.” Their clothes can be recycled material, organic, Fair Trade or even made of hemp (hemp happens to be extremely sustainable). Men and women’s clothing.
All Everlane clothing is produced in ethical factories around the world. And they are very transparent about how their clothes are made, even sharing the cost of making the clothing. They consider their clothing to be investments, made to last for years. Men and women’s clothing.
This one is spendy, but they are really pioneers in Fair Trade. They’re based out of the UK and create women’s clothing using eco-friendly and organic fabrics. Their clothing is known for lasting many years too, so it’s worth the investment. Women’s clothing only.
Working with factories globally that ensure safe and fair working conditions, Alternative Apparel produces clothing that is known to be versatile and comfortable. From t-shirts to denim and leggings, this is a good solution for getting the basics. Men and women’s clothing available.
