Slow Fashion Month

As the Pacific Northwest begins its rainy season, we are drawn physically and mentally inward to the warmth and comfort of the indoors, re-allotting time once spent hiking and picnicking with friends to more quiet activities. Maybe we begin projects inside the home, or find comfort in the simplicity of things like board games and hot tea. We start changing out our wardrobes and reassessing what we should keep, and what is no longer serving us. The urge to purge things that don’t bring us that spark of joy anymore can be strong.

We live in a world where we feel entitled to instant gratification. When it comes to many industries, our impulsive purchases can contribute to pretty steep consequences to the environment and to the people producing the goods that we pay so little for.

With these things in mind, October has been called Slow Fashion Month. It is a time to educate ourselves on the clothing we are consuming, and the brands we support. It is a time to consider the quality of our garments, and start adopting the mindset of quality over quantity.

There are many ways we can all participate. Before throwing away an old pair of boots, consider whether they could be re-soled to extend their life a couple more years. Shop for clothes at vintage and consignment shops, and think about the idea that your clothing has a life, a story. Mend your clothes. Make your own clothes.

As I posted last week, this time of year I get the itch to knit sweaters. What inspired my current sweater project, the Abigail Cardi by Cecily Glowik MacDonald, as my realization that my inexpensive, black, everyday cardigan that I purchased mere months ago is already looking… done. Rather than purchasing yet another cardigan to replace it, I decided to find a pattern that would fit the bill and to knit myself a similar sweater that will last me more than a season or two.

My shabby store-bought cardigan in need of a replacement.

I love the whole process: looking for the pattern, selecting the yarn, and spending the time to create something that I will soon get to enjoy wearing. Take the time to put thought into not only the clothes you purchase, but the clothing you make and mend. Choose patterns and colors you will want to wear for years to come. Enjoy the process of making something that will have its own story and live on past its time with you. Knit and crochet with intention. Slow down.

Handmade replacement cardigan, still on the needles.

How will you support the Slow Fashion Movement this month?