This week is Fashion Revolution Week; a call to action started a few years ago by Fashion Revolution. Based in the UK, the nonprofit aims to spur fashion activism and make waves within the current fashion industry. Through social media campaigns, online guides, and awesome collaborations, Fashion Revolution has helped to create a movement.
What is Fashion Revolution Week?
Fashion Revolution Week marks the anniversary of the Rana Plaza collapse in Dhaka, Bangladesh. On April 24, 2013, factory buildings came crashing down and killed about 1,138 garment workers. The tragic event was a wake up call for many in the industry, revealing the harsh realities behind the shiny clothes customers buy in stores. Since then Fashion Revolution has taken the week of the event to remember those who have suffered, and are still suffering. By educating and encouraging the public to “Be curious. Find out. Do something.” Fashion Revolution Week is helping to change the fashion industry for the better.
How Do I Participate?
Fashion Revolution has outlined seven actions to take this week in order to participate in the fashion activism!
Take to social media to hold your favorite brands accountable! Turn your shirt inside-out so the label is seen, snap a picture, and tag the brand on the label. Make sure to use #whomademyclothes so that the brand knows you need more transparency!
The organization has come up with a 10 point manifesto to share their vision for fashion’s future. It’s not about abandoning or getting rid of fashion, but making the industry a force for good.
Vote with your dollar but also by voicing your opinion. If there aren’t initiatives in the place where you live, make sure your representative knows that this is an issue you care about. Let’s demand attention for the tragedies this industry is causing.
Instead of buying new, fall back in love with what you already own. Write a blog post, post on Instagram, or simply write down why you value your favorite items.
Update your wardrobe without buying new clothes! Celebrate items that are new-to-you but acquired secondhand! You can upcycle pieces, swap with others, buy vintage and more.
There are so many amazing events being held this week, all over the world. Find one in your area and meet fellow fashion activists! If you’re in Los Angeles, make sure to come and see us on Saturday for an in-person clothing swap. We are partnering with Fashion Revolution USA and Global Fashion Exchange for the Global Swap Event. Our mission is to help save 1 Million pounds of clothing from being discarded in 2018. Get tickets here!
Fashion Revolution is a nonprofit and relies on generous donations to continue to do the inspiring, and important, work they do. Donate this week so that we can continue to benefit from their free resources and amazing research!
Audrey Stanton was born and raised in the Bay Area and is currently based in Los Angeles. She has attended the Fashion Institute of Technology, London College of Fashion, and received a BFA in costume design from the California Institute of the Arts. Audrey is deeply passionate about conscious fashion and hopes to continue to spread awareness and love for ethical consumption. Visit her blog audstant.com and follow her on Instagram for lots of #slowfashion inspiration!