With global warming becoming a harsh reality, and our lives getting faster by the day; it's time we gave fast fashion a serious second thought.
As my fellow blogger & bestie Sayantani says in her latest post, "Be accountable for what you buy. Shop Responsibly. Don't buy something because it's a huge trend. Buy it because it makes your heart skip a beat and because it fits your style. Let's take it slow in fashion."
This post is much inspired by what she had to say. I have been thinking on those lines since some time now, but her words just drove the point home for me.
No, I'm no saint who can just let go of her shopaholic habits just one fine morning....like turning your back on a bad relationship that you know will end up breaking your heart. I still get tempted by the random denim dress I spot at a discounted price in H&M, I still end up ordering something I've been eyeing on Koovs.
But, I definitely try to control my urge to check out ALL the offers/deals texts/e-mailers I get from the brands or websites. I buy something only if I feel I'll wear it more than 4 times or in 4 different ways. And I'm definitely trying to NOT buy 2-3 discounted items from fast fashion brands, and pick ONE unique piece of clothing or accessory from a sustainable brand or small-business designer with the money I saved instead!
Also, I spent the last weekend organizing my closets and collecting clothes and shoes that I haven't worn in almost a year. Some have become old, some I've worn way too many times, and some I don't just fit into anymore. While searching on the net last week, for an NGO who collects old clothes and stuff, I came across a blog post by someone that mentioned Sri Rakum School For The Blind in Bangalore (thankfully, not far from my place) where one can donate old clothes, books, stationery and even food. So, on Sunday, me and the man lugged 2 big bags of our clothes & shoes to this school and dropped them off for those underprivileged kids. We not only felt lighter in the physical sense, but emotionally too! It's a beautiful feeling, this, we tell you!
[If you are in Bangalore and looking for a place to donate something, do drop in to Sri Rakum School for the Blind in Indiranagar. They operate from 8am to 8pm on all days of the week.]
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Coming back to the topic, it's time to practice these li'l actions that can have a big effect on the global scenario. Give away your old clothes and make space for new ones in your wardrobe. Buy less, buy unique. Trends will come and go, so don't over-indulge in buying trending styles - they might go out of fashion sooner than you realise. And of course, try to invest in more sustainable pieces and small businesses - their styles will not only be chic and comfortable, but will also make you stand out in the F21 and H&M-clad crowd!
I showcased my clothing brand Howrah Bridge at Shuffling Suitcases Edition II in Mumbai last month, and came across quite a few amazing sustainable and designer brands at the event.
One such designer was Diya Mehta who works mostly with tie-dye techniques on natural fabrics. Her silhouettes are easy, colors are pretty and the beauty of tie-dye makes each piece covetable.
I picked up a vibrant tie-dye long jacket from her and needless to say, I love the pattern, the colors and the soft fabric of the piece.
I can totally see myself layering up this season in this beautiful longline jacket - and add fusion twists to all kinds of looks with this number!
[Tie-dye long jacket: Diya Mehta | Navy dress: Street shopping, Pune | White lace-trimmed pants: Howrah Bridge | Tan belt: Westside | Tan boots: Hush Puppies | Maangtika (actually earring): c/o The Raw Mango]
Photography by: Arjun & Chaya of Arya Photography
Tie-dye is one of those intrinsic Indian handicraft techniques that has always appealed to me. The way different tying techniques result in creating different patterns while dyeing is nothing short of magic, if you ask me! That, and a little bit of science, of course!
A skilled artisan can actually work wonders with a bit of string and some dyes.
It's crafts like these which, when championed in the form of stylish clothing made with natural fabrics, inspire us to go the sustainable way and uphold the sartorial treasures that our country has to offer!
What do you think?
Do you like being on the fast fashion lane? Or are you one for choosing sustainability over high-street trends?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
Love,
Anupriya