Image: Khadi weaving in Bhuj, Gujarat. 2019.
In this blog we explore the concept of slow fashion – integral to our ethos as a brand, and suggest concrete ways in which consumers and customers can begin to engage with the slow fashion movement.
What is slow fashion?
Slow fashion is a thoughtful, intentional, holistic lifestyle approach to fashion. Fast fashion corporations release new collections every few months, with much of the production “designed neither for longevity nor recycling, but rather for short life cycles to encourage customers to buy anew”[1]. Slow fashion, on the other hand, emphasises slower production schedules, limited collections and zero waste designs. Slow fashion, rather than chasing trends, aims to create pieces that customers can wear for a lifetime. To this end, it is important to note that slow fashion emphasises high quality fabrics and textiles and thoughtfully curated designs.
Image: A meeting with Devji in Bhuj, learning more about kala cotton. Taken on our trip to Gujarat in 2019.
Slow fashion at Sonya Sapru Designs
Slow fashion forms the ethos of our work at the studio. Our garments are thoughtfully created for every gender, age and body. We strive to be sustainable. We work with fabrics that have a low environmental impact (khadi and kala cotton), and source directly from weavers and artisans. We work with natural and vegetable dyes – no chemicals or toxins. We also do our own eco-dying – creating unique pieces – that imprint nature onto fabrics. We also work with our hands – adding detailing, and doing the simple haath ka kaam ourselves. We also emphasise zero-waste – this means that no pieces or scraps of fabric, no matter how small, get left behind. Everything is upcycled and transformed into clothing and accessories. This conscious decision is an embodiment of slow fashion and mindful living.
Image: Puja enhancing a khadi saree. At our studio, 2020
Read more about our philosophy here.
Slow fashion is about consuming and creating fashion consciously and with integrity. It connects social and environmental awareness and responsibility with the pleasure of wearing beautiful, well-made and lasting clothing (as compared to the immediate gratification of fast fashion). – Kat Collings, Editor in Chief at Who What Wear
The slow fashion movement combines a brand’s practices with customer’s shopping habits. The movement works towards creating an industry that benefits the planet and people.
Anyone can join the slow fashion movement. Here are some ways to get involved:
Create a love story: Rifle through your closet, and recount the history and stories of some of your favourite pieces. Your grandmother’s saree, the blouse you were wearing when you met your best friend. Bring joy back to your closet.
Build a capsule wardrobe: A capsule wardrobe is a concise, curate selection of classic and timeless clothing. It varies based on individuals, and is based on the principle that less is more, and every piece of clothing in your closet is chic and can be paired easily.
Make thoughtful purchases: Begin by giving up the urge to impulse buy. Buy better and wear longer. Think about who benefits from your purchase. Try and support small businesses and local artisans.
Re-cycle: For clothes that no longer work for you, consider having them tailored or altered for your newer shape or aesthetic. Also consider engaging with your local clothing swaps, or even swapping with a friend.
Use your voice: Beyond investing in slow fashion pieces for your own wardrobe – consider using your voice to push for fair fashion by using your voice. A website that has concrete examples for how to do this is: ohsoethical
Send us a message and let us know how you’re engaging with the slow fashion movement!
[1] Pulse of the Fashion Industry, 2018 report. Accessed online via: https://www.globalfashionagenda.com/report/pulse-2019-update/
