In the past 10 days, celebrating a decade of impactful activism by the Fashion Revolution team, I’ve been advocating for informed Fashion Revolutionaries. From sustainable fibres to fair trade fabrics, each element has taken its turn in the spotlight on my social media channels.
This week, during our Sustainable Fabric Design class, Ari from @GleanandGrace shared a deeply personal anecdote about dyes—a topic I hadn’t previously explored. However, her story compelled me to delve deeper.
Unveiling “To Dye For”
Alden Wicker’s book, To Dye For, was already on my reading list, but after Ari’s revelation, it’s next in line. I urge everyone to join me in reading it.
The unregulated use of toxic dyes, especially on synthetic fibers like polyester, exacerbates the risks associated with fast fashion. Why? Because unstable dyes are cheap and short-lived—perfect for clothing retailers cutting corners at every opportunity.
While we’re familiar with the labor abuses and environmental harm of fast fashion—issues many still turn a blind eye to—what about the potential impact on our own bodies? Let’s hope this research reaches more influential ears than mine.
If the prevailing response to such allergies is “medicate for life” or “stick to white T-shirts without bras,” where does that leave us?
The Bright Side
Another eye-opener from Ari was her ability to wear our recycled fabrics without any issues—truly remarkable! Perhaps, as she suggests, it’s because these yarns, created from garment factory scraps, undergo no new dyeing process.
It might also be attributed to the quality of dyes used in the original fabrics. The international standard demands AZO-free, non-carcinogenic dyes—a regulation rigorously enforced in Europe, where a significant portion of Bangladesh’s exports land.
Fortunately, many individuals are striving to make a difference across the fashion and textile industry. An assembly of these change-makers, with the latest insights and advancements, awaits in London, UK, this June… and I can hardly wait!
Future Fabrics Expo (FFE)
Will you be there? I certainly will! FFE, curated by The Sustainable Angle, is a trade show where all of us exhibiting undergo rigorous sustainability validation before participation. This ensures that the real-deal is available to the attendees, designers and industry leaders genuinely committed to sourcing sustainable alternatives.
If you plan to attend, let me know. I have a guest code for 25% off your ticket!
AIBI – Chicago
For those not bound for London, join me at the vibrant fair hosted by the Apparel Industry Board, Inc. on May 11th/12th in Chicago, Illinois, USA. I’d be thrilled to see you there too!
Your Feedback?
As we collectively strive to raise awareness and take action, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Take solace in the multitude of individuals making a difference and join the movement. After all, as the proverb goes, “To travel fast, go alone. To travel far, go together.” We’re committed to the long haul, and together, we’ll make significant strides.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on any of the above!
Here’s to building a better future together—every step of the way!