This week (April 15-24th 2024) is Fashion Revolution Week, a global movement dedicated to a more ethical and sustainable fashion industry. Here at Considered Jewellery, we're passionate about creating a brand that protects the environment and is respectful of the people around us. So, we wanted to take a moment to chat about Fashion Revolution Week and how you can get involved. Not just with jewellery, but all your clothing choices.
Why Should We Care?
Fashion, in all its forms, can have a hidden cost. The Rana Plaza garment factory collapse in 2013 tragically highlighted the human rights and environmental issues that can lurk within fashion supply chains. Fashion Revolution Week is about asking questions, demanding transparency, and pushing for a fairer, cleaner industry for everyone.
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The Power of #WhoMadeMyClothes
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Fashion Revolution Week, and their iconic question #WhoMadeMyClothes has become a global movement. But why stop at clothes? Jewellery deserves the same scrutiny, which is why we are dedicated to creating a truly responsible jewellery collection that makes us proud. We know who made our jewellery, and where the materials came from.
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Be a Conscious Consumer
Here are some ways you can join the Fashion Revolution to ensure your clothing and jewellery choices have a more positive impact on our world:
Ask the question. Whether shopping for jewellery, clothing, shoes or accessories don't be afraid to ask #WhoMadeMyClothes and #WhoMadeMyJewellery? Investigate retailer and brand websites for information about their supply chains and sustainability practices. Transparency is key, if they are not telling you the answers to these simple questions, why not? Dive into Fashion Revolution's Transparency Index, which ranks major fashion brands on their transparency – a great tool to guide future purchases.
Shop with purpose. Many brands now offer detailed information about their sourcing and manufacturing processes online. On clothing, look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) organic cotton or recycled materials. Seek out Fairtrade or Fairmined certified jewellery and check that materials and stones used are traceable. Choose brands that demonstrate their commitment to worker's rights and more sustainable practices, such as B-Corporations. B-Corp certified brands are a great way to ensure you’re buying from a responsible business.
Shop less, choose well. Resist the urge for fast fashion trends and consider buying fewer, well-made pieces that you'll love and wear for years to come. Tap into timeless trends, such as Smock London's blouses or classic knitwear from Baukjen.
Embrace repair and alterations. A small repair can extend the life of a beloved garment or jewellery piece. Our local seamstress, Terri McLean, repairs clothing as well as making our Considered Jewellery pouches. Learn how to revamp clothes you already own with online tutorials and workshops dedicated to clothing repair. Or join community groups like Thread Republic and Mend Assembly, which are popping up all over the country. So get fixing rather than ditching!
Embrace pre-loved. Thrift stores, vintage shops, and online marketplaces such as Vestiaire Collective, are treasure troves waiting to be explored. Plus the boom in clothing rental platforms, like My Wardrobe HQ, means you can hire statement pieces for just as long as you need them.
By asking questions, demanding transparency, and making informed choices, we can all be a part of a more ethical and sustainable fashion future. Remember, every piece of clothing and jewellery you buy tells a story: let's make sure it's one we can be proud of! Read more about our Considered story here.
For more information visit the Fashion Revolution website.
We’re dedicated to creating a radically transparent jewellery brand, and helping you to buy with confidence. Feel free to drop us a line with any questions about gifting Considered Jewellery, or anything else for that matter, we’d love to hear from you.