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The History and Evolution of Slow Fashion
This slow fashion blog post explores the history and evolution of the slow fashion movement, tracing its origins from pre-industrial times to its resurgence in response to the negative impacts of fast fashion. It highlights key milestones, including Katharine Hamnett’s activism in the 1990s, Patagonia’s shift to organic cotton, and the rise of ethical brands like People Tree. The post also examines the impact of the 2013 Rana Plaza tragedy, growing environmental concerns, and the increasing popularity of second-hand shopping and clothing rental services. With a focus on sustainability, ethics, and mindful consumption, this piece delves into how slow fashion is shaping the future of the industry.
Krishma Sabbarwal
11/02/2025
The History and Evolution of Slow Fashion
The term slow fashion was first introduced by Kate Fletcher in a 2007 article in The Ecologist. She compared the movement to the slow food movement, which promotes sustainability and mindful consumption. At its core, slow fashion is about making better choices. It encourages quality over quantity, ethical production, and sustainable materials. Instead of chasing trends, it focuses on timeless pieces designed to last.
Slow fashion History
The idea behind slow fashion isn’t new. Before mass production, people invested in well-made clothing and repaired what they owned. But as fashion became faster and cheaper, that mindset started to fade.
In the 1990s, some designers pushed back. Katharine Hamnett, known for her bold activism, championed organic cotton and fair labor conditions. She called out brands for unethical practices and urged them to take responsibility (State of Matter Apparel, 2023). Around the same time, brands like Patagonia and People Tree took action. Patagonia made the switch to organic cotton in 1996, setting an industry precedent. People Tree, founded by Safia Minney, embraced fair trade and ethical production, proving fashion could be both stylish and sustainable.
Why Slow Fashion Took Off
For years, fast fashion dominated. But then came the Rana Plaza collapse in 2013. A factory in Bangladesh, producing clothes for major global brands, collapsed due to unsafe conditions. Over 1,100 garment workers lost their lives (The Guardian, 2013). The tragedy was a wake-up call. People started questioning what really went on behind the scenes.
At the same time, environmental concerns were growing. The fashion industry is responsible for about 10% of global carbon emissions and is one of the biggest polluters of water (United Nations Environment Programme, 2022). More consumers began looking for alternatives—buying second-hand, choosing ethical brands, or simply consuming less (Mintel, 2024).
Where Slow Fashion Is Headed
Today, the slow fashion movement is stronger than ever. Many high-end designers are ditching the traditional seasonal calendar, opting for smaller, more meaningful collections. Sustainable brands are investing in repair programs, eco-friendly materials, and ethical labor practices. The resale market is booming too. Platforms like Depop, Vinted, and The RealReal make second-hand shopping more accessible and desirable (The Times, 2024).
There’s also a rise in clothing rental services. Companies like Rent the Runway and By Rotation let people wear high-quality pieces without the waste. Renting is a game-changer. It means you can enjoy fashion without feeding into the cycle of overproduction.
The shift toward slow fashion is about more than just shopping habits. It’s about changing the way we see clothing. It’s about valuing craftsmanship, knowing where our clothes come from, and making choices that benefit both people and the planet. Fast fashion still dominates, but the conversation is changing. And that’s a step in the right direction.
Principles of Slow Fashion
Slow fashion is characterised by several key principles:
Quality Over Quantity: Emphasising durable, well-made garments that last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Ethical Production: Ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for all involved in the production process.
Environmental Responsibility: Utilising sustainable materials and processes to minimise environmental impact.
Mindful Consumption: Encouraging consumers to make thoughtful purchasing decisions, focusing on necessity and longevity rather than trends.
Photo by Edward Howell | Unsplash
