Why Sustainability in Fashion Is Becoming a Bigger Deal Than Ever (and also - Where have we been?)

Can we start by saying sorry? It has been far too long since we wrote something here, but being such a small team, time just seems to fly away... Anyway, now happy and settled in our new home in Carrow House we are ready to get started again so here we go. Fashion - Why it and YOU matter!

Let’s be honest, we all love clothes, or at least use them (I hope!). Fashion can be fun, creative, and a way to express who we are. But the more I’ve learned about how the fashion industry really works behind the scenes, the harder it’s become to ignore the impact it’s having on the planet and on people. Sustainability in fashion isn't just a buzzword. It’s something we all need to start paying attention to. Fast fashion has completely changed how we shop. It’s cheap, it's everywhere, and there’s always something new hitting the rails (or our screens). But that constant churn of new clothes comes at a cost. Most of these items aren’t made to last, instead they are worn a few times and then discarded, adding to a massive pile of waste. It’s estimated that a truckload of textiles is either landfilled or burned every single second. That’s a lot of clothes going nowhere fast.

The Planet Is Feeling It

The fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world. I was shocked when I found out how much water it takes to make just one cotton t-shirt - around 2,700 litres. That’s enough for one person to drink for about two and a half years!

And then there’s the plastic problem. Loads of our clothes are made from synthetic fabrics like polyester, which shed tiny microplastics when we wash them. These end up in our waterways, oceans, and even in the food chain. Not exactly what you want from your workout leggings. Let’s not forget carbon emissions either. Fashion accounts for more than all international flights and shipping combined. When you think about how many clothes are being made, shipped, and chucked out each day, it adds up fast.

It’s Not Just the Environment

There’s a human side to this too. Many of the clothes we buy are made in factories where workers aren’t treated fairly. Long hours, low pay, unsafe conditions is the reality for millions of garment workers around the world. Remember the Rana Plaza disaster in 2013? Over 1,100 people lost their lives when a factory building collapsed. That tragedy put a spotlight on how dangerous things can be behind the price tag of a cheap top.

People Are Starting to Wake Up

The good news? More and more of us are waking up to all of this. People are asking questions, doing their research, and choosing brands that actually care about sustainability and ethics. There’s a real shift happening from fast fashion to slow, from throwaway culture to conscious shopping. Things like second-hand shopping, clothing swaps, and even renting outfits for events are becoming way more normal (and honestly, pretty cool). Maybe we will stop seeing headlines when a celeb wears something twice - Surely it should just be natural!? Some brands are starting to offer repair services or take-back schemes too, which is a step in the right direction.

So Why Is It an Even Bigger Issue Now?

Because the fashion industry just keeps growing. More people, more demand, more waste. If we don’t start doing things differently, the damage will only get worse. Plus, with climate change becoming more urgent and governments starting to crack down on waste and emissions, the pressure is on for fashion brands to clean up their act.

Sustainability isn’t just a marketing word anymore. It’s something we really have to do, for real, not just watch brand washing their logos in green. For the planet, for future generations, and honestly, just to feel better about what we’re putting on our backs.

Final Thoughts

I’m not saying we all need to be perfect. Don't feel guilty about treating yourself at times. It is ok to buy new and I really believe that we need to stop the shaming. I still buy a new piece now and then, but I buy with thought. Do I really need it? Will I wear it often? Is it wellmade? Do I trust the brand I buy from? Is the item something I can care for and therefor make last? If we all make small changes, like buying less, choosing better, or supporting sustainable brands, it can make a big difference. Fashion should be fun, yes - but it can also be kind, mindful, and better for everyone. xMaria PS. If you want to treat yourself to something new - why not check out the amaaaaaaaaaazing shop TRASH on Magdalen Street? Follow the link and show them some love! UPCYCLED FASHION (@trash.norwich) • Instagram photos and videos

This is where we live now! Well, not INSIDE the orangery but in the same building. Carrow House on King Street is now home to over 25 organisations in the VCSE sector and around 30 artists. How about that for fabulous?!