How exciting, we are doing a book club!!!!!  :D 

This week is all about giving you an introduction on what the book is about , the author and the topic matter &  how to get the book.

Why are we having a book club?

We hope to forge a united, supportive, and captivating community for those who share a passion for knowledge and aspire to become more knowledgeable about ethical fashion.

Format:

Very, very informal and a slow read as its more about digging into each topic. Perfect for the " I am not really a reader" type of book club.

No sign ups, just occasional meet ups (see at end of this blog for our first one), and you only need to come when you want. No obligations. 

Every Friday we will focus all our social media posts on the topic chapters we have read for discussion.

We do this because we want to be advocates for ethical fashion. 

How fast you read the book is up to you. You can even just read the topics you want to be involved in. However, please note the topics for our meet ups will reflect the chapters we are reading that week.

This is our reading schedule for the entire book club:

January -  Unveiling the Fashion Ecosystem 

Week 1: Get the book! 

Week 2: What Now?, Today & Tomorrow (pg 1- 43)

Week 3: You Choose 1. Conscious (pg 47- 64)

Week 4: You Choose . 2. Fair (pg 67-82)

At the start of the year, we'll introduce you to the visionary Clare Press and set the stage for understanding the current state of the fashion industry.

February - Its all about LOVE

Week 5: You Choose . 3. Slow  & 4. Even Faster (pg 85-117)  

Week 6: You Choose 5. 7 Upcycled (pg 119 - 151)

Week 7: You Choose . 6. Community &. 7. Less (pg 137 - 166)

Week 8: You Choose . 8. Local and 9. Global (pg169 - 196)

In the month of love, we'll fall head over heels for the innovators and creative thinkers who are redesigning fashion from the ground up. Join our discussions on the groundbreaking solutions presented in "Wear Next" and be inspired by the possibilities. Plus, we will have an expert session with a local sustainable fashion guru! This month we will have a upcycle class and a fashion swap.

March -  Envisioning the Future of Fashion

Week 9: You Choose . 10 Traceable (pg 199 - 209)

Week 10: You Choose . 11 Repaired & 12 Shared (pg 211- 235)

Week 12: You Choose . 13 Regenerative & 14 Biointeligent  (pg 237 - 264)

In the final stretch, We'll delve into the future of work in the fashion industry and explore the impact of sustainable practices on employment. You will have the opportunity to engage in a hands-on workshop, to experiment with sustainable fashion DIY, and witness firsthand the transformative power of conscious choices

April - How far is too far with technology in fashion?. And then reflection and Review 

Week 13: You Choose .15  Robotic  (pg 267 - 276)

Week 14: You Choose . 16 Digital (pg 279 - 294)

Week 15: FASHION REVOLUTION WEEK - Reflection and Review

Our journey culminates in how far technology has come. We will then have a reflection on the transformative insights gained from "Wear Next."   

This is the book:

To get a copy simply search "wear next fashioning the future" in google and a list will come up of various book stores and suppliers. I got mine through QBD Books at Charlestown - They ordered my copy for me, their phone number is  (02) 4910 0419.

About the author:

Clare Press is a Sydney-based sustainability communicator, filmmaker, author and presenter.

Clare was the first ever VOGUE Sustainability Editor (Vogue Australia, 2018-2020) - a pioneering role in international media.

She was also the first Global Ambassador for the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Make Fashion Circular initiative, and has been a member of Australian advisory board of Fashion Revolution since 2014. She sits on Copenhagen Fashion Week’s Sustainability Advisory Board, and is part of Fashion Roundtable in the UK. In 2019, she won the a Sustainability Champion Award from the New South Wales government.

What’s the book all about?

Wear Next imagines 16 scenarios for our fashion future, from slowed down, upcycled & community-based to fast-paced and AI-enabled, from local to global, regenerative & biointelligent.

Kinda like a “choose your own adventure” - Clare Press

It’s a provocation & an invitation: what kind of fashion future do YOU want to be part of?

What others are saying...

You are invited  to a literary adventure that transcends pages and stitches together a narrative of change – with the book "Wear Next" by Clare Press.

At the intersection of style and sustainability, Vogue's first sustainability editor, Clare Press, takes us on a transformative journey through the tangled threads of the fashion industry in her book, "Wear Next." Are you ready to unravel the mysteries of our clothing choices and discover a more sustainable path? While meeting like minded friends along the way.

👗 What to Expect:

It will be a very, very informal and a slow read as its more about digging into each topic. Perfect for the " I am not really a reader" type of book club.

No sign ups, just occasional meet ups (see at end of this blog for our first one), and you only need to come when you want. No obligations. 

How fast you read the book is up to you, however and the topics for our meet ups will reflect the chapters in the time frame as we are exploring it. This is our reading schedule for this month:

January -  Introduction and Unveiling the Fashion Ecosystem 

Week 1: Get the book! 

Week 2: What Now?, Today & Tomorrow (pg 1- 43)

Week 3: You Choose 1. Conscious (pg 47- 64)

Week 4: You Choose . 2. Fair (pg 67-82)

At the start of the year, we'll introduce you to the visionary Clare Press and set the stage for understanding the current state of the fashion industry.

Share your fashion journey with fellow members and explore the wasteful aspects of the industry.

February - Its all about LOVE

Week 5: You Choose . 3. Slow  & 4. Even Faster (pg 85-117)  

Week 6: You Choose 5. 7 Upcycled (pg 119 - 151)

Week 7: You Choose . 6. Community &. 7. Less (pg 137 - 166)

Week 8: You Choose . 8. Local and 9. Global (pg169 - 196)

In the month of love, we'll fall head over heels for the innovators and creative thinkers who are redesigning fashion from the ground up. Join our discussions on the groundbreaking solutions presented in "Wear Next" and be inspired by the possibilities. Plus, we will have an expert session with a local sustainable fashion guru! This month we will have a upcycle class and a fashion swap. 

March -  Envisioning the Future of Fashion

Week 9: You Choose . 10 Traceable (pg 199 - 209)

Week 10: You Choose . 11 Repaired & 12 Shared (pg 211- 235)

Week 12: You Choose . 13 Regenerative & 14 Biointeligent  (pg 237 - 264)

In the final stretch, We'll delve into the future of work in the fashion industry and explore the impact of sustainable practices on employment. You will have the opportunity to engage in a hands-on workshop, to experiment with sustainable fashion DIY, and witness firsthand the transformative power of conscious choices

April - How far is too far with technology in fashion?. And then reflection and Review 

Week 13: You Choose .15  Robotic  (pg 267 - 276)

Week 14: You Choose . 16 Digital (pg 279 - 294)

Week 15: FASHION REVOLUTION WEEK - Reflection and Review

Our journey culminates in how far technology has come. We will then have a reflection on the transformative insights gained from "Wear Next."   

****It's not just a book club; it's a community fostering sustainable fashion enthusiasts.*** - Yvie

Why Join the "Wear Next" Book Club?

🌱 Deep Dive into Sustainable Fashion: Discover the world of sustainable fashion through a lens that goes beyond trends. Gain insights into the innovators shaping a brighter future for the industry.

🤝 Community Engagement: Connect with like-minded individuals passionate about sustainable living. Share your fashion journey, learn from others, and be part of a community driving change.

🎓 Interactive Workshops and Guest Speakers: Immerse yourself in engaging discussions, workshops, and sessions with experts in sustainable fashion. It's not just about reading; it's about living and breathing a sustainable lifestyle.

💡 Inspiration for Action: Equip yourself with practical knowledge and creative ideas to integrate sustainable choices into your daily life. From DIY sessions to envisioning a sustainable fashion future, we're not just readers; we're doers.

How to Join:

1. Get Your Copy: Grab a copy of "Wear Next" by Clare Press from your favorite bookstore or library.
2. Sign Up: Each Friday, simply just check out our social media platforms; Facebook or Insta for key event dates, live feeds and discussion topics. 
3. Mark Your Calendar:  As we progress we will post the key dates and you can choose which of the events you want to participate in. 

Are you ready to transform your wardrobe and mindset? Join the "Wear Next" Book Club, where fashion meets sustainability, and together, we'll weave a tale of positive change. 🌿✨

Let's make fashion a force for good!

💚

Yvie xo

#WearNextBookClub #SustainableFashionRevolution #FashionRevolution 

Fair Trade fashion allows us to address both environmental and social concerns within the fashion industry. It promotes sustainable practices, empowers workers, encourages creativity, and educates consumers, ultimately fostering a more responsible and conscious approach to fashion.

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In today's interconnected world, our consumption choices have a profound impact on the lives of people across the globe. As we enjoy an abundance of products, it's essential to consider the conditions under which they are produced. Many producers, especially those from developing countries and marginalized communities, face numerous challenges and barriers in the global market. Fair Trade, a movement founded on ethical principles, aims to empower these disadvantaged producers by providing them with opportunities that can change their lives for the better. Let's explore the first principle of Fair Trade and how it creates pathways for growth and prosperity for those who need it most.

Fair Trade Principle 1: Opportunities for Disadvantaged Producers

At the core of Fair Trade lies its first principle: creating opportunities for disadvantaged producers. This principle recognizes the systemic inequalities and exploitative practices prevalent in conventional trade and seeks to redress them by offering a more just and sustainable alternative. 

1. Inclusive Access to Markets: Disadvantaged producers often struggle to access global markets due to limited resources and lack of connections. Fair Trade organizations bridge this gap by establishing direct trade links between producers and consumers, eliminating middlemen and ensuring fair access to markets.

2. Capacity Building: Fair Trade invests in capacity-building programs to empower producers with knowledge and skills. Training in sustainable farming practices, product development, and market trends equips producers to compete effectively and improve the quality of their goods.

3. Fair Financing: Access to finance is a significant barrier for many producers, especially in the agricultural sector. Fair Trade organizations provide pre-financing and low-interest credit, allowing producers to invest in their businesses and cover production costs.

4. Long-Term Relationships: Fair Trade fosters long-term partnerships between producers and buyers. These stable relationships offer security and encourage producers to invest in improving their production capabilities, knowing they have a reliable market for their goods.

5. Empowering Marginalized Communities: Fair Trade promotes the inclusion of marginalized groups, such as women, indigenous communities, and small-scale farmers. By providing fair opportunities, it helps elevate these groups, empowering them to actively participate in economic activities and decision-making processes.

6. Sustainable Livelihoods: Fair Trade ensures that producers receive fair prices for their goods. This leads to more sustainable livelihoods, enabling producers to break the cycle of poverty and provide a better future for their families.

7. Environmental Stewardship: Fair Trade encourages eco-friendly practices, such as organic farming and responsible resource management. By prioritizing environmental sustainability, Fair Trade producers play a role in protecting natural resources for future generations.

Global Mamas is a prime example of a Fair Trade organization that embodies the principles of creating opportunities for disadvantaged producers. Founded in 2003, Global Mamas is a social enterprise that operates in Ghana, West Africa, with a mission to empower women and artisans through sustainable livelihoods. It is arguably one of the most important brands in our shop! Here is an explanation of  how they implement principle 1 "Creating Opportunities for Disadvantaged Producers:

1. Inclusive Access to Markets: Global Mamas empowers women artisans by providing them with access to global markets. The organization connects these talented artisans with consumers worldwide through various channels, including online platforms and retail partnerships. By eliminating middlemen, Global Mamas ensures that the artisans receive fair prices for their handcrafted products.

2. Capacity Building: Recognizing the importance of skills development, Global Mamas invests in capacity-building programs for its artisans. Training sessions focus on product design, quality control, financial literacy, and management skills. This equips the artisans with the knowledge needed to run successful businesses and compete effectively in the international market.

3. Fair Financing: Global Mamas offers pre-financing to its artisan partners, providing them with the necessary resources to purchase materials and cover production costs. This financial support is crucial, especially for artisans who lack access to traditional banking services or collateral.

4. Long-Term Relationships: Global Mamas fosters long-term relationships with its artisans, ensuring stability and predictability in their work. By providing a consistent market for their products, the artisans can plan for the future, invest in their businesses, and create sustainable livelihoods.

5. Empowering Marginalized Communities: Global Mamas places a strong emphasis on gender equality and women's empowerment. The majority of their artisan partners are women who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. By supporting these women artisans, Global Mamas helps break down gender barriers and uplifts entire communities.

6. Sustainable Livelihoods: Through fair prices and consistent orders, Global Mamas enables its artisans to build sustainable livelihoods. Many of these women are now able to support their families, provide education for their children, and improve their living conditions.

7. Environmental Stewardship: Global Mamas is committed to promoting eco-friendly practices. The organization encourages the use of natural and locally sourced materials, reducing the environmental impact of production processes.

I love hearing the Personal stories of the producers. This story is an extract from an Interview by batik designer Nick Ruffalo. Cape Coast Ghana, July 2021.

"My name is Grace Adoboe, and I am a seamstress with Global Mamas in Cape Coast, Ghana................. I first heard about Global Mamas through a friend when I moved to Cape Coast. She was also a seamstress and sewing regular orders for them. I went to the Global Mamas office to apply, and they gave me a test pattern to take home. When I brought it back they said that they liked my work…this was about 19 years ago. I have always sewn neat, and they saw that, but Global Mamas has helped me refine my skill even more. They don’t accept anything but the highest quality. This has helped me secure orders from other partners. I even have a contract with a school that I sew uniforms for because they value the quality that I deliver.

I am enjoying my work, and I like working with Global Mamas. They keep me very busy, but sometimes we disagree on things. However, I know that I’m able to speak my mind and they will listen. No matter the disagreement, we will work together to find a way forward that benefits both of us. We are business partners who respect each other and you have to be honest and transparent with your partner.

Now I am a big tree in my family. I support a lot of them: my brothers, sisters, their children, and my children. I don’t spend my money alone. If I can help, I will. I have three children, two girls, and one boy. The firstborn is now a teacher, but during the beginning years of Global Mamas, she was their production manager. My second born is finishing up her master’s, and the last born, my son, is still in college studying IT. My children are proud of me and know that I can do all things by God’s grace. In some years’ time, I hope to have finished my house, and I would want to train someone who can lead the work with the business I’ve built."

 

Global Mamas exemplifies the first principle of Fair Trade by providing opportunities for disadvantaged producers. Through inclusive access to markets, capacity-building initiatives, fair financing, and long-term relationships, Global Mamas empowers these artisans to create sustainable livelihoods that can allow the luxury to dream big for themselves and their families. As consumers, supporting organizations like Global Mamas and choosing Fair Trade products can make a significant difference in the lives of disadvantaged producers worldwide. By standing together, we can foster a more equitable and sustainable global trade system for a better future for all.

Click on here to view our collection of Global Mamas .

 

Image Credit: All images are from the Global Mamas Website.

 

Fair Trade Fortnight, in Australia 2023 is celebrated from August 2nd to August 15th, it is a wonderful opportunity to raise awareness and advocate for the ten principles of Fair Trade. This two-week period is dedicated to celebrating the positive impact of Fair Trade practices on the lives of farmers and artisans, particularly in the cotton industry, as well as the makers of our beloved fashion and accessories sold instore. By supporting Fair Trade, we can be the change we wish to see in the world, fostering sustainable and ethical practices that uplift communities and promote social justice.

Understanding Fair Trade

Fair Trade is not just a buzzword; it's a powerful movement that addresses the inequities prevalent in conventional trade practices. The principles of Fair Trade emphasize creating fair wages, safe working conditions, and supporting environmentally sustainable production methods. By adhering to these principles, Fair Trade aims to empower marginalized farmers and workers, particularly in developing countries, enabling them to escape poverty and invest in a better future for themselves and their families.

The Importance of Fair Trade in the Cotton Industry

Cotton is one of the world's most significant agricultural commodities, yet its production often involves exploitative practices, including child labor and extremely low wages. By supporting Fair Trade cotton, we are actively advocating for fair compensation for farmers and laborers, ensuring they receive a just price for their hard work and dedication. Fair Trade also encourages sustainable farming techniques, reducing the environmental impact of cotton cultivation and promoting long-term ecological balance.

Empowering Fashion Makers through Fair Trade

Fashion, with its rapid cycles of trends and ever-changing consumer demands, can be a source of exploitation for garment workers. Many fashion houses outsource their production to low-cost labor countries where workers often endure hazardous working conditions and are paid meager wages. Fair Trade fashion, on the other hand, prioritizes ethical production practices, empowering artisans to earn a fair wage, work in safe environments, and retain control over their traditional craftsmanship.  

Fair Trade means that the production of the item MUST adhere to the ten principles of Fair Trade which are;

1. Creating Opportunities for Economically Disadvantaged Producers: Fair Trade strives to empower marginalized producers by providing them with sustainable livelihoods and access to global markets.

2. Transparency and Accountability: Fair Trade organizations maintain openness about their business practices, ensuring fair and honest dealings with producers and consumers alike.

3. Fair Trading Practices: Fair Trade adheres to fair and equitable trading partnerships, avoiding exploitative practices and unfair price manipulation.

4. Payment of a Fair Price: Producers receive a fair and stable price for their products, ensuring they can meet their basic needs and reinvest in their businesses.

5. Ensuring No Child or Forced Labor: Fair Trade prohibits the use of child or forced labor, safeguarding the rights and well-being of vulnerable individuals.

6. Commitment to Non-Discrimination, Gender Equity, and Women's Economic Empowerment: Fair Trade promotes equal opportunities and gender equity, empowering women to take on leadership roles in their communities.

7. Ensuring Good Working Conditions: Fair Trade organizations guarantee safe and healthy working conditions, respecting the dignity and rights of all workers.

8. Providing Capacity Building: Fair Trade initiatives support skill development and capacity building for producers, enabling them to improve their products and businesses.

9. Promote Fair Trade: It is the responsibility of a Fair Trader to educate others about what makes this business model so important.

10. Promoting Environmental Sustainability: Fair Trade encourages eco-friendly production practices that minimize the negative impact on the environment.

In our shop we have the motto, buy less, but when you you do make it count towards making the world a better place as we value and celebrate cultural diversity. 

We pride ourselves in showcasing products that help customers choose Fair Trade such as;

 

 

We could not do this without your support, so this month is also about saying "Thank you!" to everyone who helps us do this. 

Love,

 Yvie xoxoxo

Cruelty-Free: Cork bags are made from the bark of cork oak trees, which can be harvested without harming or cutting down the trees. The process involves stripping the bark, allowing the trees to regenerate and continue their growth. This makes cork a sustainable and cruelty-free material, aligning with the principles of veganism.

Environmentally Friendly: The production of cork is a sustainable and renewable process. Cork oak trees absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases. The bark harvesting process promotes the health and longevity of the trees, preserving the ecosystem and biodiversity of cork forests.

Durability and Longevity: Cork is a highly durable material that can withstand wear and tear. It is resistant to moisture, scratches, and stains, making it suitable for everyday use. Cork bags can last for a long time with proper care, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste.

Lightweight and Comfortable: Cork bags are often lightweight, making them convenient for everyday use. They are comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded, which is beneficial for individuals who prefer lightweight accessories.

Versatility and Aesthetics: Cork bags come in various styles, designs, and colors, offering a wide range of options to suit different tastes and preferences. Cork's natural texture and appearance provide a unique and elegant aesthetic, giving these bags a distinctive look.

Hypoallergenic and Easy to Clean: Cork has natural properties that make it resistant to mold, mildew, and allergens. It is also easy to clean with mild soap and water, making it a practical choice for those with allergies or sensitivities.

In-store and online we have lots of cork bag options.