Slow wins the race

Fashion is one of the largest industries in the world and has a significant impact on the environment and society. However, fast fashion has become a norm, with brands producing clothes and accessories at an alarming rate, leading to waste and negative consequences for both the planet and us, its inhabitants. As consumers become more conscious of their purchasing decisions, slow fashion is gaining popularity as an alternative. As it should. 

Photo: Mia Papa's 'St. Stephens silk scarf'. Mia Papa is a young designer and great advocate of slow fashion

Slow fashion is a term used to describe a mindful approach to fashion that prioritizes sustainability, ethics, and quality over fast-paced trends and mass production. It is a movement that encourages consumers to think carefully about their purchases.

One of the main benefits of slow fashion is its impact on the environment. Fast fashion contributes to a massive amount of waste as clothes are produced at a rapid rate and often discarded just as quickly. In contrast, slow fashion prioritizes quality over quantity, with brands producing clothes that are meant to last. This means that fewer clothes are produced, reducing the strain on the environment and reducing waste.

In addition to its environmental benefits, slow fashion is also focused on ethical and sustainable production methods. Brands that practice slow fashion often work with local artisans and communities, providing fair wages and safe working conditions. This helps to support communities and reduces the environmental impact of shipping goods from far-off locations. 

Photo: Jewelry by Danai Giannelli. The designer works with local artisans and family workshops to produce her creations. She does not create seasonal items but pieces that, with some care, are meant to last for generations. 

Finally, slow fashion encourages consumers to consider the impact of their purchases. Do we need to buy many cheaper pieces or fewer of higher quality? By choosing pieces that are made from sustainable materials and produced in an ethical manner, we can make a positive impact on the world. The prices of the handmade and sustainable items might seem higher at first, but all things considered they are definitely wiser purchases, both for our personal and collective well-being.

Slow fashion is one more reason why The Greek Art Company chooses independent brands and designers, who either make the work themselves or work with local workshops to produce their items. Quality pieces in limited quantities is becoming our mantra. 

By choosing slow fashion, we can work together to create a better, more sustainable future for all.

For ethically made pieces for yourself or your loved ones, have a look here.