firstly theres a massive misinterpretation about ethical fashion, and i know that because i massively misinterpreted it myself. just because it's eco doesn't mean its frumpy, made of hemp or designed by hippies..
i bumbled along to the v&a's museum of childhood this week to see an eco-fashion mini festival. i learnt more than i'd imagined. listening to discussions by lucy siegle and amisha ghadiali - members of the EFF and associates of eco-queen livia firth - who showed an interesting view on where you draw the line between what is and what isn't sustainable clothing, 'knowledge is power' they professed to helping to minimise the impacts on the environment. i never even think where my clothes are from originally, many of us don't even question who made our clothes and the fact is many can't afford to ask, designers and brands that aim to ethically source manufacturers sell at a higher price.
the price does seem less relevant however when you talk to the young ethical designers showcasing their work. i spoke to a mia jafari, a graduate from goldsmiths and central st martins. her excitement for the fabric and commitment to detail was more than inspiring.
everything is made by hand. unlike a lot of large brands, these designers focus on the product over the consumer. it becomes an ethical collaboration between the designer, the manufacture and the materials used. definitely refreshing to know there's an up & coming breed of people who not only care about the world, but believe in making fashion more personal.
pictures of mia jafari's ladybirds Love strawberry cosmos collection
pictures from mia jafari's website.
