Slow fashion in a fast world

New trends come and go faster than ever, and the life cycle of clothes can only be a few weeks. Microtrends, cheap materials and almost the right clothes fill our closets. Although I've managed to avoid getting caught up in microtrends almost completely, lately I've noticed the question a lot:

Do I really need all this?

Slow fashion is a counterattack to disposable culture. It emphasizes quality, sustainable choices and long-lasting clothes. It's not just about what you wear, it's about the choices you make and the impact they leave on the world. For now, my wardrobe is far from a capsule wardrobe. I set my goal to trim my closet into a capsule form during 2024, but it feels like more clothes have just accumulated. It's human and blaming yourself doesn't promote positive change.

What does slow fashion mean?

Slow fashion is a way of thinking where clothes are viewed as more valuable than mere consumer goods. It means:

• Sustainable choices – The clothing manufacturing process and materials are ecological and responsible.

• Quality instead of quantity – The clothes are made to withstand time and wear, both stylistically and physically.

• Thoughtful consumption - You only buy what you really need and use.

Slow fashion is above all conscious consumption and challenging one's own way of consumption.

Those who appreciate slow fashion don't have to buy only second-hand jackets or collared shirts that cost hundreds of euros. Of course, vintage pearls may be of better quality and sustainably produced clothes are usually slightly more valuable. In slow fashion, however, it is primarily worth practicing considered consumption. Perhaps the easiest first step to thoughtful consumption is to create a Wish List of the clothes you need in your wardrobe.

Why is slow fashion important?

The effects of Fast Fashion on the environment and people are enormous:

• Environmental disadvantages: The textile industry is one of the biggest polluters. Quickly produced and consumed clothes put a burden on nature both during production and disposal.

• Human rights problems: In low-cost production countries, clothes are often made in poor conditions, with minimum wages.

  
  

By choosing slow fashion, you support more ecological and ethical production, and you help reduce the problems caused by the clothing industry.

How to embrace slow fashion in everyday life?

Embracing slow fashion doesn't mean renewing your entire wardrobe at once. It's all about small, deliberate steps. Here are some tips:

Trim and organize your wardrobe

Start by assessing what you already have. Go through your wardrobe and think about what you really wear and love. You may be surprised how much you already own.

Focus on quality

When buying something new, choose quality and timeless clothes that will last for years. Check the materials and manufacturing process before buying. You can ask yourself, for example, whether this garment would have been on my mind five or three years ago.

Prefer used and recycled

Flea markets, second hand stores and clothing swap events are great ways to find unique and durable clothes. However, it is not in accordance with the principles of sustainable consumption to buy something just because you can get it used. I myself have stumbled on this stone this year as well.

Do it yourself

Knitting, sewing and repairing clothes are at the heart of slow fashion. Self-made clothes not only last longer, but also have a greater emotional value. The knitted shirt itself can also be disassembled if its design no longer pleases you over the years, and the yarn can be reused for the next shirt.

Take care of your clothes

With maintenance, you can extend the life of your clothes. Wash the clothes the right way, fix minor defects and store them carefully.

Slow fashion isn't perfect—and it doesn't have to be

It is important to remember that slow fashion does not require perfection. Every small step towards slower and more sustainable consumption is valuable.

Maybe today it means that you skip the impulse purchase. Maybe tomorrow you'll choose a locally made sweater over the chain store option. Everything counts.

Why should you choose slow fashion?

Slow fashion challenges us to appreciate our clothes, make informed choices and slow down the pace in our lives. When the wardrobe is a well-thought-out ensemble, the mornings can start more calmly - there is always a credit outfit available.

Although the world spins fast, slow fashion reminds us that it pays to stop. Although I'm encouraging you to make the most of it and start the journey towards slower consumption, I also want to remind you that each of us will probably always make impulse purchases. Needs, body and preferences also change. All this is human and necessary. Let's be kind to ourselves and others <3