Each and every Pai product is made on site in West London, and we like to think we have a pretty good understanding of what goes into creating a product. It’s a process we see everyday!
However, it’s easy to forget that the things we buy aren’t always produced in a way that is fair or responsible – and this most often applies in the fashion industry.
The life cycle of a garment can be astoundingly short, with items designed, manufactured, sold and discarded sometimes in a matter of weeks.
So quick, in fact, that this is known as ‘Fast Fashion’.
What is ‘Fast Fashion’?
For those of us that can afford to buy more than what we need, ‘Fast Fashion’ refers to clothes we often end up buying because they’re cheap, not because we love them.
To produce a garment that costs the shopper just a few pounds or dollars, companies rely on globalised mass production methods that can require sacrificing the social and ecological values.
These manufacturing methods are often unethical; threatening human rights and safety with poor, sometimes dangerous, working conditions and very low wages.
What is ‘Slow Fashion’?
In many ways, ‘Slow Fashion’ is a return to the kind of clothes shopping that your grandmother might recognise.
Garments are designed and created for quality and longevity, either as bespoke creations or in much smaller quantities than we’re used to.
It encourages slower production schedules, rather than catering to rapidly changing trends – all of which contributes to a lower carbon footprint and less waste.
Prices are often a little higher, allowing for fair wages and better working conditions for employees.
Where can I find it?
Brands like People Tree, Reformation and Everlane have blazed a trail with sweat-shop free and responsible production. At Pai we’re also fans of The Acey, who stock a range of ‘Slow Fashion’ brands.
Since documentaries like ‘True Cost‘ highlighted the issues created by ‘Fast Fashion’, more brands than ever are reviewing their practices in an effort to become more ethical and responsible.
Here’s to a fairer, greener, longer-lasting wardrobe!
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