Slow fashion is a clothing movement and method that emphasises sustainability, ethics, and durability. It is a deliberate alternative to the fast fashion industry, which manufactures clothing quickly and inexpensively, frequently with significant environmental and social consequences.
Photo by Arnel Hasanovic on Unsplash
Fashion has always been associated with continual change and the never-ending quest of the newest trends. Fast fashion, a common word in recent years, refers to the quick manufacturing and consumption of low-cost apparel.
Slow fashion is a counter-movement that has formed in response to the negative effects of this industry. Slow fashion advocates for a more environmentally friendly and ethical approach to clothing manufacture and use.
What is slow fashion, and is it for everyone?
Slow fashion is a method of thinking and a concept that promotes a change away from disposable, mass-produced apparel and towards a more mindful, conscious approach.
It prioritises quality over quantity, promotes timeless designs, and seeks to decrease waste and exploitation in the fashion industry. One of the guiding ideas of slow fashion is to buy less but better.
Slow fashion supports investing in well-made, durable pieces that are built to last rather than continuously chasing new trends and amassing a wardrobe full of short-lived garments.
This entails moving the emphasis from fast-paced fashion seasons to timeless styles that transcend passing fads. Slow fashion proponents not only decrease their environmental effect, but they also save money in the long term by selecting long-lasting things.
The ethical examination of the entire supply chain is another key part of slow fashion. Slow fashion encourages openness and fairness, ensuring that workers participating in the manufacturing process are paid fairly and have safe working conditions.
It also emphasises the use of environmentally friendly materials and production methods. To reduce waste, slow fashion manufacturers frequently prioritise organic or recycled materials and use practises like as upcycling and recycling.
Challenges in consuming slow fashion
While slow fashion has various advantages, it is important to recognise that it may not be viable or accessible for everyone. Slow fashion is frequently more expensive due to the use of high-quality materials and ethical labour practises, making it less accessible to individuals on a tight budget.
Furthermore, the fast fashion business has instilled a culture of constant consuming and rapid turnover, making it difficult for people to break away from these habits and adopt a slow fashion mindset.
Slow fashion, on the other hand, does not necessitate a complete wardrobe redesign or the purchase of just high-end sustainable labels.
Slow fashion can also include practises like thrift shopping, clothing swaps, and repurposing old clothes. It’s about making more deliberate selections and evaluating the long-term consequences of our fashion choices.
The slow fashion trend is gaining traction, and as demand grows, more affordable and accessible solutions become available
In response to consumer demand, many mainstream firms are beginning to prioritise sustainability and ethical practises. It is critical that customers support these good improvements by purchasing businesses that reflect their beliefs and actively participating in dialogues around sustainable fashion.
Slow fashion, in essence, is a conscientious alternative to fast fashion that promotes ecological and ethical practises.
While it may not be possible or accessible for everyone, there are a variety of ways for people to adopt slow fashion concepts into their lives, regardless of financial restraints.
Slow fashion allows us to work together to create a more sustainable and responsible future for the fashion industry.
Slow fashion scene in Malaysia, and shops & influencers to follow on Instagram
Fast fashion has had a significant impact on Malaysia’s fashion sector throughout the years, with large-scale production, multinational brands, and rapid consumption dominating the market.
However, there has been a substantial trend towards slow fashion principles in recent years, reflecting customers’ growing concern about the environment and social responsibility.
The rise of domestic sustainable fashion companies in Malaysia is one notable trend. These companies place a premium on ethical sourcing, decent salaries for craftspeople, and the use of environmentally friendly products.
They emphasise transparency throughout their supply chains, allowing customers to make educated decisions while also supporting local artisans.
Furthermore, the growing popularity of vintage and thrift shopping is fuelling Malaysia’s slow fashion movement. Consumers are increasingly accepting secondhand clothing, recognising its potential to decrease waste and support circular economy practises.
Thrift stores, second-hand markets, and online vintage clothing platforms have grown in popularity, giving an alternative to mainstream fast fashion. Here are a few to follow on Instagram:
Maharani Stores
One peek at the shop’s IG and you’ll find numerous pieces fit for a hippy empress; which is what ‘Maharani’ means: an empress. With one-of-a-kind tribal printed and knitted pieces, most of the shop’s drop would sell out within days.
Fina Finds
Fina is definitely a pro at finding amazing pieces, and her drops are always sold out within hours! Insider’s tip: you can pre-purchase before the official drop by DMing her, but be prepared to pay a slightly higher price (still affordable, tho). By the way, you can shop at Fina Finds’ physical rack at Sinar Koffee Cafe if you’re in Penang, where most items are priced under RM20.
Hippy Huddle
Hippy Huddle specialises in knitted/crocheted made-to-order goodies, from sling bags to boxers. True to her shop’s name, she is also effortlessly living the bohemian lifestyle.
Klambi Thrift JB
Based in Johor Bahru (JB), Klambi Thrift is super active on the scene; participating as a vendor at thrift bazaars almost on a monthly basis. If you’re not in JB, try sliding into their DM to get their goodies and have ’em ship it for you.
Gipsi Gila Store
Gipsi Gila Store or crazy gypsy store is truly living up to its name, with countless of insanely out-of-this-world pieces on sale. If you love anything garish and hippie, just go to Crazy Gypsy and she’ll sort things out for you!
Amatiran Store
I’m honestly not quite sure what Amatiran means, but my best guess is ‘Amateurs’. Another thrift shop that caters to the unconventional crowd, Amatiran Store is super active within the slow fashion scene and often participates in Pasar Gadis’ events at Central Market.
What is a movement without a group of influencers at the forefront? Here are slow fashion influencers and organisations in Malaysia that you can follow on Instagram as well:
Fashion Revolution Malaysia
The Malaysian version of the global Fashion Revolution movement, Fashion Revolution Malaysia had recently held an intimate slow fashion event where they showcased a documentary titled “Wearers Keepers,” a thrift styling workshop, a mending workshop, and a few other activities related to slow fashion.
Kembangkan Semangkuk
Kembangkan Semangkuk, or loosely translated as ‘growing a bowl’ is more of a collective where like-minded members are dressed head to toe in retro clothing while travelling from state to state in Peninsular Malaysia. They’re also an active vendor at numerous slow fashion events, selling thrift clothing and the likes.
Kedai Serba-Serbi
Aptly named, Kedai Serba-Serbi or ‘general store’ sells all kinds of rare goodies from yesteryears. Also a curator of various flea markets (mostly held at Central Market), Kedai Serba-Serbi offers everything from fashion, music, to cultural inspirations.
Pasar Gadis
Pasar Gadis or ‘girl’s market’ started as a handmade accessories brand before rebranding itself as slow fashion event organiser. It’s one of the top must-attend markets if you’re into everything thrift and handmade.
Seri Mizani
Seri Mizani is a sustainable fashion advocate who’s very active on the scene. She occasionally holds a slow fashion workshop-mostly at slow fashion events. She also has a wellness club called Seribume.
Seam Eera
The seamstress who upcycles old garments into something new and wearable, Seam Eeera recently launched her special collection of handmade collars and vests in pretty patterns and colourful ribbons; in collaboration with Looop.Fun. Each piece is never the same, and they come with a sweet story featured on the price tag.
Gipsi Gila
The official account of Gipsi Gila Store owner, Gipsi Gila is a must-follow if you ever need an inspiration in styling your thrifted clothing.
As the slow fashion movement takes ground around the world, Malaysia’s fashion sector is undergoing a revolutionary change towards sustainability and conscientious purchasing.
The rise of domestic sustainable companies, the popularity of vintage and thrift shopping, and the acceptance of ethical practises are all signs of a shift in Malaysian consumer attitudes.
Malaysians can contribute to a more environmentally friendly and socially responsible fashion landscape while enjoying the benefits of excellent, timeless apparel by adopting slow fashion.