Decades of fast fashion have left many of us with whiplash as trends come and go at an ever-increasing pace. Fortunately, many conscious clothing companies are rethinking their place in the industry and taking strides to offer affordable, eco-friendly apparel, also known as slow fashion.
What is slow fashion?
Slow fashion is a movement that prioritizes quality, durability, and ethical practices over trendy, “disposable” items. Here’s a look into this fashionable philosophy:
What are the characteristics of slow fashion?
When you shop for slow fashion items, you’ll find plenty of classic wardrobe staples that will stand the test of time. The focus is on longevity and quality, after all. Other features of slow fashion are less apparent, such as ethical production practices and sustainability.
Is slow fashion the same as sustainable fashion?
You can think of slow fashion as a type of sustainable fashion. The main difference between these two is that slow fashion places more emphasis on reducing waste and overproduction, while sustainable fashion describes any industry practice that reduces the overall environmental impact.
Slow fashion vs fast fashion
Slow fashion is the opposite of fast fashion. It includes durable, long-lasting items made with ethically sourced materials, such as organic cotton, linen, and wool. Clothes may have higher up-front costs because they’re made to last by workers who are paid fair wages.
On the other hand, fast fashion is all about producing cheap, trendy items that rarely last longer than a season. Fabrics might be synthetic or treated with toxic chemicals, and there’s a good chance the manufacturer is exploiting overseas labor to boost the brand’s profit margins.
What are the benefits of the slow fashion movement?
Slow fashion offers plenty of benefits over the alternative. Here are some of the advantages you’ll love:
Reduced waste
Minimizing industrial and textile waste is at the heart of slow fashion. Rather than pushing customers to buy and buy and buy, slow fashion brands encourage consumers to buy what they need and wear it for life.
Ethical production standards
Fair Trade practices, ethical wages, and clean working environments are standards for any slow fashion business.
Higher quality
Slow fashion is where style meets sustainability. While some brands market an earthy, natural aesthetic, you’ll find everything from business attire and luxury evening wear to athletic gear and sustainable sneakers. Best of all, you can wear these products for years to come.
Eco-friendly materials
Organic cotton, linen, hemp, bamboo, and wool are just a few of the environmentally friendly fabrics you’ll find on the shelves of responsible retailers.
Supports local brands and businesses
Transport is one of the big problems with fast fashion. In many cases, the materials are sourced on one continent, shipped to a second for production, and then hauled to a third location for final sale. Slow fashion brands are more likely to make their clothing in the US with the help of local designers and manufacturers.
Slow fashion brands that are changing the way we shop
Ready to find the best slow fashion brands that incorporate ethical, sustainable practices? Here are a few popular options to check out:
Moaconcept
This Italian footwear brand uses a low-impact production process to craft cool sneakers, like the Leopard Double Club and Gold Club Sneaker. Moaconcept’s use of recycled leather, suede, and cotton further expand on the brand’s philosophy of reuse and recycle. They also encourage various social initiatives like tree-planting projects to offset the brand’s carbon footprint.
AVY & CO
AVY & CO focuses on relaxed, comfortable, and sensuous apparel — like the Nalu Maxi Dress and Eamon Knit Pant — that showcases slow fashion at its finest. Every piece the brand features is thoughtfully crafted in collaboration with independent Balinese artisans and small family-run studios, embracing a no-waste, full-circle philosophy.
AVY & CO also sources natural, raw materials and uses small-batch production, directly supporting ethical practices and environmentally conscious consumption.
Kitty van Coesant
Kitty van Coesant (formerly NIZHONI) features slow fashion with a vibrant boho flair, where each piece encompasses the cultural influences of Italy, India, and Andalucia. The brand also uses ethically sourced fabrics for their sustainable apparel.
Kinga Csilla
Kinga Csilla creates sophisticated, eco-friendly clothing with sustainability as the number-one focus. This brand is committed to ethical practices that minimize environmental impact through carbon offsetting, reforestation, and partnerships with organizations like Ecocart and i=change. Kinga Csilla also practices closed-loop production with Airrobe and Worn for Good, prioritizing labor rights and eco-regeneration.
Flabelus
Flabelus reimagines the traditional Spanish espadrille, creating a shoe for all seasons and occasions. The soles of each pair are made from recycled bicycle tires, offering an eco-friendly alternative to ordinary flats. Step into a pair of Flabelus Mary Janes or velvet ribbon slippers — made from 100% organic cotton velvet.
Discover slow fashion brands and unique apparel at RAREBIRD!
RAREBIRD Boutique is committed to slow, sustainable fashion that helps you embrace your own unique style. Inspired by extensive travels, our collections highlight eclectic aesthetics from around the world. Explore our online store or visit our Sarasota boutique to discover your new favorite wardrobe staple!
