Fashion Blogs

When we see that perfect sundress hanging in the store window, a few things come to mind. We wonder about the price, whether or not it would look good on our upcoming beach trip, or if we have shoes to match the color. The person that made the dress or her country of origin could not be further from our thoughts. But as it turns out, our casual daily shopping decisions carry a number of ethical and economic implications. For the principled consumer, where our clothing comes from can matter greatly.

Consider the source

We readily accept that the vast majority of our clothes, especially from large, discount vendors, are made overseas. Our purchases in the US, however, could be supporting unacceptable labor conditions elsewhere. Major clothing manufacturers often outsource labor to developing countries, where workers lack the protection of workforce regulations. Commonly known as “sweatshops”, these factories frequently employ underage and underprivileged girls for pennies on the US dollar. The process is deceptive, because although the label may state “Made in China” or “Made in Bangladesh”, retailers are not required to disclose, or even investigate, the working conditions in those countries. Conscientious consumers who want to buy responsibly should look for labels that use fair trade and ethical labor practices.

The benefits of buying local

Buying locally produced food has become popular in recent years, with enthusiasts citing better quality and the fostering of community. The same benefits can be seen with locally made clothing as well. Focusing on domestic goods supports small businesses, which in turn makes communities healthier. If you’re searching for a way to put more of your money into your own neighborhood, simply do an internet search for your immediate area. Many farmers markets support the promotion of locally driven economies and will have resources for finding clothing items produced at home. Even larger companies like All USA clothing are good to buy from because you know that the workers who make the clothes are protected by employment laws.

Don’t forget about secondhand goods

Another source to consider when trying to be a more responsible shopper is the secondhand market. The fog of stigma that once hindered consumers has begun to lift in modern times, and with the creation of such sites as Craigslist and Letgo, the secondhand market has become an acceptable alternative to unnecessary expenses. Buying secondhand serves not only the obvious purpose of saving money, but also creates jobs and prevents several tons of clothing from finding its way into landfills. Thrift store giant Goodwill has revamped many stores to give more of a department store appeal, and upscale consignment stores have begun to pop up everywhere, offering barely used, high-end clothing items for considerable discounts.

In the end, it’s up to each individual to decide how they will buy their clothes. Not everybody can afford or access domestically made clothing, but it’s a good thing to keep in mind. Do you know where your clothes come from?