Slow Fashion USA and the Future of Leather Fashion
Slow Fashion Movement aims to create a sustainable and ethical fashion industry. This is in direct response to the fashion industry’s fast-paced and disposable nature, which has a negative impact on both the environment and people involved in the supply chain.
Slow fashion encourages consumers to invest in quality, timeless pieces that are made to last, rather than constantly buying cheap and trendy clothing that is quickly thrown away. During our national team’s participation in Slow Fashion Movement’s global #KnowYourLeather campaign, we have explored the history of leather, vegan vs. animal leather, and the comparison of leather alternatives.
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Leather is a material that has been used in the fashion industry for centuries and is often associated with luxury and durability. However, the production of leather has a significant impact on the environment and the people involved in the process. Chrome tanning, specifically, is very harmful to the environment, the communities near the factories, and the workers. Leather has also been linked to deforestation, as many leather products are made from the hides of cows that have been raised on land cleared for grazing.
Despite these challenges, leather can still be a part of the slow fashion movement. The key is to choose leather consciously. You can do this by making fully-informed shopping decisions that take the leather industry’s many nuances into account.
Here are some things to consider when buying leather:
Choose quality over quantity: Slow fashion is all about investing in quality pieces that will last for years. When it comes to leather, this means choosing products that are made from high-quality hides and are well-crafted.
Buy secondhand: Another way to support the slow fashion movement is to buy secondhand leather products. This not only reduces the demand for new leather, but also gives new life to existing products.
Choose timeless styles: Slow fashion is all about timeless, classic styles. When buying leather products, look for styles that won't quickly go out of fashion, so you can wear them for years to come.
Choose Quality over Quantity
Here are some tips on choosing quality over quantity:
Pay attention to construction: Look for well-made leather products that are sewn with tight, even stitches and reinforced at stress points. This will help ensure that the item lasts longer and doesn't fall apart easily.
Think about the long-term cost: While a cheaper leather item might seem like a good deal in the short-term, it may end up costing you more in the long run if you have to replace it frequently. Consider the lifespan of the item and how often you'll need to replace it.
Take care of your leather products: Proper care and maintenance of your belongings can help them last longer and maintain their quality. Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer and take steps to prevent damage, such as storing items properly and avoiding harsh cleaning products.
Buy Secondhand Leather
Purchasing secondhand leather fashion items is an ethical, sustainable option that can help reduce waste and the fast fashion industry’s environmental impact. To buy secondhand leather fashion, you can start by doing the following:
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Visit thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces: Look for stores that specialize in secondhand items, because you never know what you might find! You can do this in the comfort of your home and still get access to lots of options.
Examine leather product conditions. When shopping for secondhand leather, it's important to carefully examine each item for signs of wear and tear. Look for scratches, scuffs, or stains that may not be repairable, and make sure the item is free of foul odors.
Examine sizing. Try to check items’ measurements before making purchases to ensure a proper fit. Keep in mind that leather can stretch over time, so an item that is slightly snug may eventually stretch to fit.
Choose Timeless Styles
When it comes to leather fashion, choosing timeless styles is your best bet. Here are some tips for choosing leather pieces that never go out of style:
Stick to classic designs: Classic designs are styles that have stood the test of time and remain popular year after year. Examples include leather jackets, boots, and handbags with simple, clean lines and minimal embellishments.
Opt for neutral colors: Neutral colors like black, brown, and tan are timeless and versatile, making them easy to wear with a variety of outfits. Avoid trendy or flashy colors that may go out of style quickly.
Choose quality materials: Quality materials like full-grain leather or top-grain leather will age beautifully over time, developing a unique patina and becoming softer and more comfortable with use.
Invest in versatile pieces: Look for leather pieces that can be dressed up or down and worn in a variety of settings. For example, a leather tote bag can be used for work or travel, while a leather jacket can be dressed up for a night out or worn casually with jeans.
By choosing leather products that are made sustainably and ethically, you can be a part of the slow fashion movement. Investing in quality, timeless pieces that are made to last not only benefits the environment and the people involved in the production process, but it also means that you'll have a wardrobe that stands the test of time.
Written by Elle Magaña Mireles
Elle Magaña Mireles is a Latinx ethical fashion writer with a strong conviction that clothing can be a powerful tool for creating a more equitable and compassionate world. In her free time, Elle pours her energy into her sustainable fashion blog, Sustainable Amor, immerses herself in nature, and eagerly pursues coursework on social justice.