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Why slow fashion stands the test of time

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Image credits: Nesolo

In the wake of a global pandemic, we’re experiencing an unexpected reversal in our fashion and lifestyle choices. Living on essential commodities, counting on comfortable clothing and embracing the pared-down life, we’ve been introduced to the gospel of minimalism and mindfulness. Our tomorrow is getting a makeover with this ‘Stop-Pause-Reset’ mode. 

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Image credits: Torani

Fashion often leads to waste but that is about to change. From #IWearHandloom led by the Indian Textile Ministry in 2016 to the reboot of Swadeshi movement this year; awareness drives have played a key role in educating the consumers about conscious fashion, tracing our roots and encouraging designers to bring slow fashion to the centre stage. The need of the hour is to be accountable for the environmental, economic and social impact of fashion as we march towards a renewed future. The supply chain will shift from trend-led to trans-seasonal as we turn a new sartorial chapter post-COVID-19.

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Image credits: Masaba 

Pioneering future-proof fashion are brands like Ka-Sha, Ekaya and Torani amongst others who have highlighted minimising waste, practised fair-wages and championing handmade craft. Designed with consciousness, their signature collections are not just one-season wonders but classic stars you can reach out for time and again. For instance, ‘Bahaar’ Ka-Sha’s SS20 collection boasts chic separates that can be worn as a one-and-done piece, layered or mixed-and-matched. There is also Masaba’s ‘I Will Wear Out Plastic’ collection that took a pretty pledge presenting outfits with attached fabric bags. While keeping her repertoire lush with locally honed culture and craft, designer Anita Dongre also has a sustainable approach to life and design. The designer’s HQ is set up in the hills of Rabale, Maharashtra is conceptualised with unique sustainable features like an on-campus composting pit, a bougainvillaea facade and other initiatives that ensure the conservation of energy. 

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Image credits: Ka-Sha 

Now that the fashion world has had to hit the brakes on the fast-paced demand and supply chain, changes will be implied to complement the new normal. The merits of slow fashion have become abundantly apparent, and we’re leading towards a change in the way we consume. Craft and community will be given the honour they deserve. Whether spontaneous shopping is your instinct or 2AM fashion finds keeps you on the edge, ‘feel-good’ fashion can go parallelly with the ‘do-good’ aspect. Sustainable choices don’t mean minimal but mindful. Invest in separates and ensembles that can be skilfully styled in umpteen ways and which lasts you a lifetime. Welcome to the world of quality over quantity. 

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Image Credits: Mulmul 

Shop from A+CO’s curation of sustainable designer labels here.