Opinion: hippie look with real different values
I walked through a shopping mall after some quick banking, and something caught my eye. A fashion chain store (maybe it was fast fashion?) displayed 70s-inspired clothes that looked quite free-spirited. But were those outfits made from materials and processes that actually love the earth and humanity?
Peace, love and flower power. That fashion cycle churns through styles of that era on a regular basis. Every few years? I could guess. That same industry creates immense waste, pollution and exploitation of workers. Some businesses are doing the right thing. But we cannot assume that every flared pant or floral tee was made by a caring company.
Do your research and buy your hippie trippy garments from truly loving sellers. See the Good On You app, where brands are rated on a range of values and practices. Look further online. Ask questions. Does a retailer know who did the sewing? Who grew the cotton? Is it organic? Did the supply chain avoid pollutions? Or did a community’s water supply become contaminated where the clothes were made? Can you find a locally made version to reduce distribution? Is there a good quality second hand piece that looks similar enough (maybe even BNWT/BNWOT)? The world needs your help.
We have a choice. We are more than consumers, we are human beings with heart and soul. We do also wear clothes. That makes us consumers by some definitions. But we don’t have to mindlessly buy, consume and throw away everything we like. We can consciously select the things we buy. When finding the trippy hippy style clothes, it could make a statement on the surface but ethical choices make a difference. Choose both. Welcome your free spirit and help the environment at the same time.
Love. Image: Unsplash, edited.
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