In recent years, the fashion industry has undergone a significant transformation, with the rise of fast fashion leaving a considerable mark on both the environment and society. While fast fashion has brought convenience and affordability to the forefront, its negative implications are far-reaching. In contrast, the emerging trend of ethical plus size fashion offers a solution that not only caters to fashion-forward individuals but also advocates for sustainability, fair labour practices, and a more conscious approach to style.
Let’s have a closer look at consequences of fast fashion and explore the benefits of embracing ethical plus size fashion choices.
The Dark Side of Fast Fashion
Fast fashion, characterized by its rapid production and turnover of trendy clothing, has captured the attention of consumers worldwide. However, this convenience comes at a heavy cost:
Environmental Impact
The fashion industry ranks among the top polluting sectors globally, contributing to issues such as water pollution, excessive waste, and greenhouse gas emissions. The production of cheap, disposable garments in fast fashion exacerbates these environmental challenges.
Exploitative Labor Practices
Behind the glitz and glamour of fast fashion lies a grim reality of exploitative labor practices in many parts of the world. Workers, often marginalized and underpaid, endure poor working conditions and lack of job security.
Throwaway Culture
The rapid pace of fast fashion encourages a culture of disposability, where garments are quickly discarded after a few wears, leading to overflowing landfills and a depletion of resources.
Ethical Plus Size Fashion: Why you can feel great about your choices.
The ethical plus size fashion movement offers a refreshing alternative that aligns with conscientious consumer values and promotes positive change:
Sustainable Clothing Choices
Ethical fashion brands prioritize sustainable materials and production processes, reducing the environmental impact of clothing. Fabrics like organic cotton, Tencel, and recycled materials take centre stage in these collections. Deadstock fabrics are commonly used by our brands too. These are fabrics from large design houses that were left over. If they are unsold they can end up in landfill.
Empowerment Through Fair Trade
By supporting ethical plus size fashion brands, you contribute to the empowerment of artisans and workers in developing countries and support the home-grown Australian manufacturing sector. Fair trade practices ensure labour rights are respected, and individuals are paid fair wages for their work.
Plus Size Slow Fashion
Ethical fashion promotes the concept of ‘slow fashion’, encouraging consumers to invest in quality pieces that stand the test of time. This approach contrasts with the disposable nature of fast fashion and supports a more sustainable consumption pattern.
Mindful Consumption
Ethical plus size fashion encourages conscious closet curation. Instead of mindlessly accumulating items, individuals are encouraged to make intentional purchases that align with their personal style and values.
Why Choose Ethical Plus Size Fashion?
Positive Social Impact
Your decision to embrace ethical plus size fashion has a ripple effect, promoting fair labour practices and contributing to the livelihood of (mostly) women in marginalized communities.
Reduced Environmental Footprint
Opting for sustainable materials, such as biodegradable natural fibres, and ethical production processes, for example recycled fibres, minimizes the harm inflicted on the environment, making your fashion choices a statement of environmental responsibility.
Personal Empowerment
Ethical fashion empowers you to express your style while supporting causes that matter to you, creating a sense of fulfillment and authenticity.
Encouraging Industry Change
As consumer demand for ethical fashion grows, it encourages the industry to shift towards more sustainable and ethical practices, benefitting the fashion landscape as a whole.
Remember, when you shop at Curvy Design Shop, or choose second hand items, at markets like A Plus, you're not just buying clothes; you're investing in a more ethical, sustainable, and equitable future.
Some of our favourite influencers support ethically made slow fashion. For further ethical plus size fashion tips and ideas you can follow these amazing women on Instagram: Lilli at Frock and Frou Frou (@frocksandfroufrou), Paula at Wardrobe Mistress (@wardrobemistress_msp) and Annika (@whoeverannikais).