[Image source: The Independent]

Wait, what is 'slow fashion'?

The current state of the world is one of overproduction and overconsumption.

The fashion industry plays a large part of this using vast energy resources, water, plastic waste, microplastics, and large carbon footprint from transportation. This system is not sustainable. 

Slow fashion takes us back to the drawing board. 

By embracing slow fashion, we can rethink how we design, produce, consume, and dispose of clothing—focusing on sustainability and the circular economy. 

Instead of focusing on speed, profit, and excess, slow fashion is about quality, durability, and lifestyle balance.

Slow fashion is just one part of working towards a greener future

 

 

Why do we need slow fashion?

1. Over-consumption - 

A documentary called The True Cost reported that the world consumes around 80 billion pieces of clothing every year, a 400% increase from just 20 years ago.

2. Reduced durability - 

Though consumption of new clothing has increased, the lifetime of these items has decreased significantly.

The number of times a garment is worn has declined by around 36% in 15 years. In fact, 60% of around 150 million garments were discarded just a few years after production in 2012 (Earth.org).

 

[Source: earth.org]

3. Landfill waste

92 million tonnes of fashion waste is discarded each year.

Did you know, most returned clothing items also end up in the landfill? 

It costs companies time and money to put them back for selling, so they simply throw them away. 

This is an issue as most of it is non recyclable, non biodegradable.

Approximately 60% of fashion materials are made from plastic. Only 12% is recycled globally.

One large issue is that clothing materials are mixed. For instance, nylon, polyester, wool, cotton blends can’t be separated and then recycled easily. Only pure materials can be managed.

 

Lots of unwanted fast fashion ends up in countries like Ghana and Bangladesh, littering beaches and poisoning the environment. These discarded garments pose a serious threat to wildlife and ecosystems

 

[Source: The Guardian]

4. Microplastics 

Because 60% of fashion industry materials are made from plastic, they release microplastics when washed at our homes. It is estimated that 500,000 tonnes of plastic reaches the ocean each year from clothing and that 10% of all microplastics in the ocean come from fabrics.

5. Energy intensive 

A lot of resources are used to produce, transport and dispose of clothing.

A significant portion of energy is also used in our homes too with washing and drying clothing. Using hot water, several litres of water, and running an electric tumble drier all contribute to emissions.

 

So what can we do?

Slow fashion allows us to make a greener choice.

To design, produce, consume, return and dispose more sustainably and ethically.

Slow fashion is not about speed, money, consumption.

Instead, it’s about quality, durability, a balanced lifestyle.

 

Slow fashion is one part of working towards a greener future.

 

Although we are all aware of the damaging habits and nature of the fashion industry, it is hard to avoid and we still buy clothing we believe is harmful due to the convenience and lower prices. However, long term, these may not be the best option for the planet, or our wallets.

 

How does Lunaria Linen create a ‘slow fashion’ experience?

 

Firstly, from the design and production -

 

1. Linen is the magic key -

We use pure, natural linen. It is not mixed with cotton or plastics. This means the fabric itself is natural and does not release microplastics. At the end of its lifetime, the garment will be biodegradable, if not recyclable.

 

2. Linen is durable -

The lifetime of linen is longer than fast fashion garments. Linen is strong and can also be repaired. It is not uncommon to have linen garments last decades and be passed down through family generations.

Linen has an undying luxurious and natural charm that is adored around the world. Longer lasting garments reduce waste and use of resources, as well as saving us financially from needing to buy new clothes.

 

3. Linen requires less energy to produce and maintain -

Linen is made from plants. These crops require less water and fewer chemicals than cotton.

Linen garments require less frequent washing and should always be washed cold below 40°c. And linen clothing is air dried, saving the energy of running a hot, electric tumble drier. These care habits could reduce consumer emissions by more than half (Earth.org).

 

Secondly, through how we operate - 

1. Each garment is made to order - 

Instead of mass producing items, we only make garments once an order has been placed. This process may be slower, but creates a more personalised experience and ultimately results in less waste.  Made to order, made to last.

2. Each garment is handmade - 

Not only supporting artisans and using less energy from large electric machines, being handmade gives each customer a more personalised experience. We offer the option of custom sizes. This means garments are made with great attention to detail and custom sizing results in a better fit. A better fit means less returns are needed.

[Source: My photo from our artisan studio]

3. Alter, don't discard.

We aim to solve sizing issues with alterations or modifications where possible, instead of returning or discarding an item. We hope to resolve issues and keep the items in circulation.

If the clothing you received does not fit as expected, get in touch and we can discuss the options. 

4. Timeless designs

Finally, instead of following the latest fashion trends, we aim to create comfortable, practical designs that are sophisticated and timeless to be worn across the years. The garments are versatile to blend into any social situation and all four seasons, making them a great wardrobe staple. This should reduce the need to buy new or other clothes. 

 

This is how at Lunaria Linen we are doing our part for a greener future.

We dream of creating a brand that is sustainable, durable, and beautiful by design and in operation. To give you eco friendly options that don’t have to compromise on comfort or elegance. 

Find out more about the fashion industry, slow fashion and how you can make a change on Earth.org, MeetYourWardrobe, Greenpeace, Greenpeace TikTok