A Revolution Begins With an Education
Every way to get educated on ethical consumption
One of the most frequently asked questions about sustainable fashion is often, “there is so much information, where do I start?” Growing up in the 21st Century most of us have grown up alongside the rise of technology and social media. Personally I know it can feel as though we have become desensitized through the overload of media and information. It is impossible to become an expert overnight, and no one expects you to! Even after having done extensive research on these issues I still find myself learning new things every day. The most important thing about progress and sustainability is incremental change. Dipping your toe in the water is the best place to start. The internet is flooded with thousands of articles and various hubs of information that it can be impossible to know where to start and what information to rely on. For this section of my guide I have compiled a list of my favorites sites, articles, apps, podcasts, and documentaries. I have provided a variety of media in order to satisfy a wide audience! Just by reading one article, downloading one app, listening to one podcast, you can broaden your horizons and be more informed! Take your pick of the litter!
W E B S I T E S
EcoCult
EcoCult is one of the ultimate hubs for scientifically-based information about the international sustainable fashion industry. The website is accessible and informative. I would definitely recommend this site if you are looking to stay up-to-date on current issues within the fashion world regarding sustainability and ethical production. You can also opt-in to subscribe to their informative newsletter.
Fashion Revolution
Fashion Revolution is an awesome site if you are looking to use your voice to make an impact on the fashion industry. While the other websites on this list are primarily educational, this site both educates and galvanizes individuals to make an impact on businesses, legislation, and the status quo. Through the resources provided on Fashion Revolution you can become part of an online community of activists. That being said, this resource is NOT exclusive to those who want to get involved, it is a really incredible educational resource as well.
Remake
Remake is a site similar to Fashion Revolution. It outlines specific ways for you to get involved in the movement towards sustainability and educates through various media movements. They also have an extensive guide on their favorite sustainable clothing brands. I highly recommend this site if you are looking to learn more about what other people are doing to make an impact on the fashion industry. But I also highly recommend this site if you are looking to expand your horizons in terms of sustainable brands to support.
Inspirational Blogs On Sustainable Fashion
If you are looking to hear/learn about various perspectives on sustainable fashion then subscribing to one of these blogs might be right for you! On the website Greenmatch, the editors have compiled a list of 50 blogs on sustainable fashion broken down into five different categories and complete with unique descriptions of each blog. I suggest taking a dive into this guide if you want behind-the-scenes looks into the fashion world and individual perspectives.
Good On You
Good On You is the ultimate guide to sustainable fashion and conscious consumption. This site is my holy grail, I highly recommend. I got a lot of questions about how you can tell whether or not a brand is “sustainable.” While there is no perfect scale by which to measure sustainability, Good On You does a wonderful job providing all the important facts regarding a company’s treatment of people, planet, and animals. Brands receive an overall rating out of 5. Good On You also has an app format available for download.
A P P S
Good On You
My #1 app recommendation is Good On You. It is the mobile version of the website that I recommended above. The app provides the same ratings and information that their website highlights. I highly recommend the app for shopping on the go, you can determine if you should buy from a store on the spot!
Buycott
Buycott is the app that allows you to “vote with your wallet.” Although some may say otherwise, your dollar counts! As consumers we need to be more conscientious about the power that a purchase holds. This app allows you to select values YOU care about such as animal rights, ethical production, and laborer rights amongst many others. When purchasing you can scan barcodes and the app will identify whether or not the product aligns with your selected values. (This app also works with other kinds of products ranging from groceries to skincare and more!)
Pureple
Pureple is the virtual wardrobe app. If you are looking to have a fresh overhaul of your current wardrobe this app will certainly help. I know that one of my main struggles is finding new ways to style old pieces. The cycle of fast fashion thrives on capitalizing off of a desire for fresh new looks. With this app you are able to upload your closet virtually and style new looks. The algorithm also suggests items from ethical brands when you are looking to add to your wardrobe. The suggested items are selected to pair with other items you currently own. This app is definitely a great way to keep track of what you own and help you make conscientious purchases that will be a part of your wardrobe for a long time.
P O D C A S T S
Conscious Chatter
“What we wear matters.” If you want to embrace your style without sacrificing your values then this podcast is for you. The host, Kestrel, discusses what it means for fashion and ethics to coexist and thrive as one. She hosts guests and discusses a wide range of issues from current events to sustainable alternatives to your favorite items. I highly suggest this podcast for your daily drives or when you just want to kick back and listen in!
Wardrobe Crisis
Episodes of Wardrobe Crisis interviews individuals form the industry ranging from designers to academics to change-makers. The host, Clare Press, aims to highlight issues of ethics, social justice, and environmental sustainability all while addressing the future of fashion. I definitely recommend this podcast if you are looking to hear individual voices from within the industry.
American Fashion
“For the true fashion nerd at heart, American Fashion goes in-depth to all of the ins and outs of the fashion industry as a whole.” If you want to learn more about supply chain, production, and marketing in the fashion industry then I highly suggest this podcast! I get a lot of questions about what makes a brand sustainable/ethical and these issues are rooted in understanding how the industry itself works.
D O C U M E N T A R I E S
The True Cost
The world of fashion may be glamorous but the ugly truth behind the industry is frightening. In The True Cost filmmaker “Andrew Morgan travels around the globe to see the people who make clothes for the world's fashion.” Within a capitalist society we are subject to constant messaging, persuading and urging us to consume. We don’t realize that our overproduction and overconsumption comes at the cost to both our planet and exploited laborers. I highly suggest that everyone watch this documentary, it is truly eye-opening.
Luxury: Behind the Mirror
When we talk about unethical/unsustainable fashion we often look to fast fashion brands and fail to recognize that high end brands are also to blame. If we are to revolutionize the fashion industry we must hold all brands accountable. This documentary highlights the inner workings and exploitative practices of some of the largest brand name fashion houses ranging from Gucci to Prada and Polo. I definitely recommend this documentary if you want to understand all sides of sustainability and ethical production.
The Ugly Truth Of Fast Fashion: Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj
If you want a quick run-down on the harsh reality of fast fashion then this episode is for you. Hasan Minhaj provides a comedic take on controversial topics and this episode is no different. The format of his Netflix show are highly conducive for highlighting the important facts. Short episodes and videos like this are great places to start if you want to understand the basics of fast fashion and sustainable fashion. I highly suggest that everyone watch this episode of The Patriot Act.