Multiple outfit changes, a pile of clothes on the bed, a closet bursting with items that have barely seen the light of day, the constant “nothing to wear” feeling. It’s easy to get caught in a fast-fashion frenzy, and it’s only getting faster.
According to the World Economic Forum, clothing production has doubled since 2000, and the 2021 Sustainability EDIT Industry Report showed that the number of new styles released by brands was up 19 per cent from 2020. This isn’t only bad for the planet, but unhealthy for humans too. An industry focused on speed and hyper-productivity goes hand-in-hand with pressure and over-stimulation. Livia Firth, founder of creative agency Eco-Age, compares it to fast food: “After the sugar rush, it just leaves a bad taste in your mouth.”
The slow-fashion movement, on the other hand, is like a nourishing meal that leaves you feeling good in the long run. “With slow fashion, you can take a step back from the crazily fast-paced trend cycle,” says Charlotte Brownlee, team leader at Slow Fashion Australia, “and mindfully consider how to style the clothes you already own, creating a love for your wardrobe and pride for what you wear”. By consuming consciously, wearing your values and simplifying your style, you might find the “what to wear” panic subsides.
A conscious closet
A 2021 study published in Global Environmental Change found that two-thirds of Australians surveyed reported experiencing “eco-anxiety” at least some of the time — that is, intense feelings of worry and hopelessness towards climate change. Taking conscious actions can help ease fear and cultivate hope. And since fashion is the world’s second-biggest polluter after the oil industry, it’s a very good place to start.
For Anna Ho, from the sustainable-fashion Instagram account @eekkolookbook, changing her shopping habits is part of her vision for a better world. “As a mother of two children, I really try to set the norms for the next generations,” she describes, “and hopefully one day fast fashion will only be found in history books”. Before you rush to the shops, consider what you already have in your wardrobe and show gratitude for these items. When you do need something new, look into the ethics of the brand to see if it aligns with your own values.
True to you
Modern life is full of “shoulds” and “musts”, but slow fashion gives you a chance to live authentically. It allows you to define and refine your own priorities. Perhaps you’ve been meaning to save for a trip, or you want to give your hobbies more attention. Reflect on how much money and time you spend on your wardrobe and see if you can free up some space for these things instead.
If you’re someone who likes to change up their look more frequently, buying second-hand is a great option. Browse thrift stores and scour charity shops or online second-hand stores to find one-of-a-kind pieces. By discovering the colours and styles that suit you, you can escape the trend-chasing cycle and feel confident in a look that’s uniquely yours.
Simplified style
Fashion designer Vivienne Westwood advocates a “buy less, choose well, make it last” approach to shopping. This speaks to the concept of minimalism, which is a way of living only with the things you need — items that spark joy and support your purpose. Slow fashion encourages you to be intentional and eradicate external clutter, freeing up room for what truly matters to you. By stepping out of autopilot shopping habits, you can create space for calmness, clarity and compassion.
Heather Grant is a freelance feature and content writer in the wellness and sustainability niche. You’ll usually find her in a coffee shop writing, reading, or daydreaming about her next trip.
