The RITE Conference's 2012 edition showed that the challenges for the industry are clear, and so are the general directions that need to be taken. But there are some marvellous and challenging mountains to climb, and they cause a notably sensation of paralysis.
On September 12 to 14, I attended the European Business Ethics Network (EBEN) yearly conference in Lille, France. The theme of this year’s edition was ‘License to Operate’.
I and my colleague Ilaria Pasquinelli, both presented a research paper, focused on sustainability and value generation in the fashion industry, and the status quo of knowledge on sustainable consumption habits respectively.
London Fashion Week is feeling the effects of the global 'austerity' programme with fewer brands participating overall. The gems are still there and worth hunting for. Sometimes though, the gems of previous seasons remain the headlines.
Lack of knowing where to buy is among the most cited reasons by consumers as to why the don’t buy more sustainably in fashion terms (right after price). A Switzerland-based, recently launched internet portal has tackled this problem by offering consumers a shopping guide and index to both brands and shops that are available in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
Fall 2010, day 1: London Fashion Week, the dream destination of fashionistas. Impressions - and 1st hand info and pictures from the 1st ever sustainable catwalk.
Winter 2011, D3: TheKey.to, Berlin.About dynastic companies launching ethical brands, and my personal 'Best Of' list taken from the attending brands.
There are several things that come to your mind when visiting Estethica at London Fashion Week this February. To start with, the new venue , in the West Wing of Somerset House, adopted since last edition, is really sophisticated. Exhibitors are accommodated in rooms with a neat aesthetics that has one aim: making collections the only protagonists. Further, it is interesting to note that, besides the usual “aficionados” like Ada Zanditon or Henrietta Ludgate, there are some interesting international emerging talented brands.
Fall 2010, day 2: London Fashion Week, the dream destination of fashionistas. Young designers have it tough - and some outstanding design by young, ambitious designers.
Like its larger sister ISPO – normally taking place at the end of January or the beginning of February, half way between the two Fashion Week cycles – Performance Days feature a high-end portfolio of performance and sports wear manufacturers, many of which actively develop and push the innovation agenda of their industry.
'A Garden Party to Make a Change' at Clarence House is a public event in support of innovative approaches to sustainability - notably fairtrade and upcycled fashion.
The second Future Fabrics Expo was hosted at the London College of Fashion on November 7th – 9th 2013, and was attended by a rather large number designers, buyers and students. Roughly 650 fabrics with a reduced environmental impact stemming from around 50 textile mills world-wide, were showcased, along with inspirational and/or interactive videos and information panels.
Fall 2010, D2: Paris Ethical Fashion Week, the longest standing ethical fashion event. Public day, bureaucratic panel discussions, and publicly funded social projects.
Fall 2010, Conclusion: Paris Ethical Fashion Week, the longest standing ethical fashion event. What is the make-up of a successful ethical brand?
The Guardian Sustainable Business & Observer Ethical Awards 2012 edition in fashion terms. Cradle to Cradle is becoming popular in the nitty gritty of the carpet industry, Puma's Profit and Loss Accounts get credit, and Kids imitate Katherin Hamnett's 1980's slogan T-shirts to raise awareness.
Everyone seems to join in for the treasure hunt called Christmas shopping. Are the 'ethical' Christmas fairs worth it? Only for discoveries - such as these 3 tiny brands.
"Made in [your country]" is an ongoing attractive topic in the contemporary sustainable fashion discussion. In many cases, one that borders - or is even right in the middle of - some rather right-wing nationalist sentiments. Europe as a whole does not need that - there is enough quality design and craftsmanship to be proud of without getting into shallow waters.
Fall 2010, D3: Paris Ethical Fashion Week, the longest standing ethical fashion event. Technological innovation and clothing. Natural organic dyes and suppliers.
London Fashion Week 02/2011 - Day 1: British Wool and its use in fashion. What is the issue with British wool and what brands are truly making a difference and how?
A phenomenon: National borders segregate markets. Ethical fashion brands don't know much about what is happening abroad.
1st of 2 part posts, incl. event listing.
London Fashion Week 02/2011 - Day 2: EstEthica is successful so it seems. But what is there going on behind the scenes? Some controversial and critical insights.