Global Voices for Fashion Revolution
Over the last decade of Fashion Revolution , the movement advocating for a fairer, non-destructive, more ethical, politically and culturally inclusive fashion industry has spread around the globe like wildfire. Not the environment-destructive type of wildfire, but rather the type of fire that inspires people’s hearts to act for the bettering of our planet through the transformation of the fashion industry.
We were inspired to speak to some countries, specifically Global South and the Majority World countries who have incorporated Fashion Revolution into the cultures and local advocacy initiatives to raise awareness and make a change. We were inspired to speak to some countries, specifically Global South and Majority World countries which have incorporated Fashion Revolution into their cultural expressions of sustainability. Plugging it into local advocacy initiatives to raise awareness and make a change. Here are some of their reflections on what Fashion Revolution stands for in their local communities and beyond.
Fashion Revolution Malaysia
1.What is the fashion culture in Malaysia? (traditions, biggest trends right now, fashion scene)
The thrifting scene has bloomed over the last few years, known as ‘bundle’ in Malaysia to signify the bales of used clothing typically imported from developed countries like the USA, Japan and Australia. While this has supported conscientious individuals with more freedom to shop secondhand over brand-new fast fashion, it has also led to a further devaluation of traditional fashion and styles.
Thrift hauls are now common, with shoppers filling bags in thrift stores, leading to the common sight of full wardrobes and a heightened pace of consumption.
Some passionate non-profits and individuals are working hard to preserve and promote the traditional textile heritage of Malaysia from different states and cultures. However, they are few and far apart. There is a watering down of heritage as local businesses are also producing cheaper, faster versions of the local handmade techniques of batik wax printing, now replaced by digital printing on polyester fabric for mass consumption for example.
2. What impact does fast fashion have on Malaysia?
The culture of overconsumption and devaluation of the perceived value of garments amongst consumers is prevalent here in Malaysia.
3. How is Fashion Revolution taking shape in Malaysia, how is it helping create change?
We have a small passionate team here that focuses on education and community engagement events. There are several supporting small businesses, organisations and advocates that are working alongside us in a collaborative, friendly ecosystem that envisions a fairer and cleaner fashion industry. We come from different perspectives and provide varying access points for individuals, communities and businesses to be educated. With more cohesive collaboration in the coming years, we look forward to bigger wins in the market.
4. What do you hope to see the revolution achieve in the next 10 years?
I hope to see consumer mindsets evolve to a level of sophistication that can discern between greenwashing and true solutions that push for circularity and slower fashion. I hope to see people see themselves as a voice of change and influence through their actions, and to be relentless and uncompromising so that the fashion industry has to respond accordingly.
Fashion Revolution Nigeria
1.What is the fashion culture in Nigeria? (traditions, biggest trends right now, fashion scene)
The ethnic diversity of Nigeria is reflected in our clothing culture. We wear both traditional and Western clothing across all age groups. Older people once retired from 8-5 jobs wear more traditional styles. Our youths are fashion-forward in their styles and approach. Clothing is a significant part of our ceremonies like weddings, birthdays, burials etc
Nigerian dressing is very unique, flamboyant and engaging. The biggest trend now is the group attire Aso Ebi for parties (meaning family clothe, Aso Ebi is a lovely tradition seen at Nigerian events in which groups of people wear matching clothes to indicate their close relationship to the celebrants). This practice is so entrenched in our culture now that it’s the driving force of our local fashion industry, keeping our local dressmakers and tailors engaged in business.
2. What impact does fast fashion have on Nigeria?
Nigeria is not a producing country, but it is the destination for not only second-hand clothing from the Global North but also excess inventory (stock lots) from fast fashion brands. Interestingly, second-hand clothing is on the list of banned items by Nigeria Customs and Exports.
3. How is Fashion Revolution taking shape in Nigeria, how is it helping create change?
We continue to engage our citizens on the need to adopt sustainable practices in their clothing consumption, we highlight the importance of understanding how clothing production and consumption impact the environment and people. We believe when people know better, they’ll do better. We’re here for as long as it takes so we preach progress over perfection so as not to let people think their little effort is meaningless. We collaborate with others working in this space and keep up with government policies that can aid our advocacy.
4. What do you hope to see the revolution achieve in the next 10 years?
In 10 years, we should be at a point where sustainable fashion is just fashion. All fashion should be responsibly produced, with waste designed out using regenerative materials.
Fashion Revolution Argentina
1.What is the fashion culture in Argentina? (traditions, biggest trends right now, fashion scene)
In Argentina, fashion reflects our rich cultural heritage and diversity. From indigenous influences to contemporary styles, our fashion scene is eclectic and vibrant. Currently, we are experiencing a rise in the adoption of sustainable and ethical practices, with designers and citizens valuing local materials and sweatshop-free production chains. Fashion in Argentina is evolving towards a more conscious expression and is committed to people and the future of the planet.
2. What impact does fast fashion have on your country?
The impact of fast fashion in Argentina is notable. Although we enjoy fashion, we are increasingly aware of the environmental and social problems linked to the mass production of clothing. Excessive consumption and the rapid rotation of trends generate great textile waste and labor exploitation in our industry. We actively work to address these challenges through education, advocacy and promotion of sustainable alternatives.
3. How is Fashion Revolution taking shape in Argentina, what does it stand for to you?
Fashion Revolution in Argentina is emerging as a movement for transparency and sustainability in fashion. We advocate for a change towards a more ethical, transparent and fair system, where workers' rights are respected and environmental impact is reduced. For me, Fashion Revolution means responsibility, empowerment and collaboration, representing hope for a better future for both people and the planet. As coordinator of Fashion Revolution Argentina, I have witnessed the power of collective action and citizen awareness. It is about challenging the status quo, advocating for fair working conditions and promoting a circular economy.
4. What do you hope to see the revolution achieve in the next 10 years?
In the next 10 years, I hope Fashion Revolution continues to grow and influence positive changes in the fashion industry globally. I imagine a future where sustainability and social responsibility are priorities in fashion, with greater transparency in the supply chain, better working conditions and circular fashion practices. Ultimately, I hope the revolution leads to a more equitable, fair and regenerative fashion industry.
My fondest memory of the last decade of Fashion Revolution is witnessing the collaborative effort of the global community in positively transforming the fashion industry. From activists to industry leaders, Fashion Revolution's global network has worked together to bring positive transformation equitably. Let us continue this collective work towards a fashion industry that values ethics, sustainability and human rights at its core.
Fashion Revolution Kenya
1.What is the fashion culture in Kenya? (traditions, biggest trends right now, fashion scene)
Kenya's fashion culture reflects our innovation, strength and resilience. There are personal shoppers thrifting on Instagram, drop shipping from large global brands, upcycling from curtains, and thrift flipping to create unique garments. We also have sustainability embedded in our culture - from how we pass down garments, mend, and repurpose... to a rich tradition of creating bespoke garments. Several local slow fashion brands have sustainability as an anchor and a movement among local designers involves using natural and locally sourced materials. There are initiatives to produce fibres and textiles from cotton, silk, sisal, millet, banana and pineapple as well as natural dyes - nurturing local industries and supporting regenerative, ethical and sustainable practices.
2. What impact does fast fashion have on your country?
The overproduction and overconsumption of cheap disposable fast fashion means that clothes from countries like China, Canada, Pakistan, China, USA, and overall the Global North end up in African countries like Kenya. Clothing donations end up in markets but since there is too much of it, they overflow into landfill, rivers and communities creating environmental damaging waste.
3. How is Fashion Revolution taking shape in Kenya, what does it stand for to you?
Fashion Revolution has a growing presence. We are a small team with big ambitions to build the knowledge and research base around local sustainable practices by looking at our heritage and reimagining our future through collaboration and conversation.
4. What do you hope to see the revolution achieve in the next 10 years?
"My hope is that Africans take up their rightful place as innovators, creators and custodians of sustainable practices and knowledge." ~ Wangari
"We cannot be perfect at everything. The small contributions to sustainability in your life count! Find something that resonates with you, go with it and the rest will follow naturally." ~ Bakhita
"I'm grateful that there continue to be intentional communities that embrace our differences and celebrate our commitment to a better life for people and the planet. Being a Fashion Revolutionary to me means holding each other’s hand, and moving forward together." ~ Chemitei
