Reviving Tradition: The Timeless Practice of Circular Fashion

Circular fashion, also known as sustainable or eco-friendly fashion, refers to a concept that promotes the reuse, recycling, and repurposing of clothing items to minimize waste and reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry. The idea of circularity in fashion is not a recent development but has roots in history, where people used to make the most out of their clothing resources.

What is circularity in fashion?

Circular fashion represents a comprehensive design approach deeply rooted in Indigenous ancestry, focused on the objective of "designing out waste" by minimizing the utilization of natural resources in clothing production and diverting products away from landfills. In essence, circular fashion, operating as a closed-loop system, endeavors to create new materials from existing ones, thereby promoting sustainability and responsible resource management.

History

During the monarch times and through the years, clothing was a valuable and limited resource for most people. Garments were often handmade and passed down through generations, emphasizing the importance of durability and longevity. Clothes were mended and altered to extend their lifespan, and it was common for people to repurpose old textiles into new garments or other useful items. This practice was born out of necessity, as obtaining new clothes was often difficult and expensive for the common folk.

Make Do And Mend:

World War II marked a significant period when resources were scarce, and nations faced severe economic constraints. Rationing and shortages affected various aspects of daily life, including clothing. As a result, there were campaigns like "Make-Do and Mend" in the United Kingdom, and similar initiatives in other countries, to encourage citizens to repair and reuse their existing clothing instead of buying new ones.

The "Make-Do and Mend" campaign was launched by the British Ministry of Information in 1943, encouraging people to be resourceful and creative in their approach to fashion. It emphasized the importance of repairing damaged clothing, repurposing old garments, and finding innovative ways to make the most of available materials. This campaign not only helped conserve valuable resources but also fostered a sense of unity and responsibility among citizens during challenging times.

Present:

In the modern world, circular fashion and the reuse of old clothes have gained renewed importance due to the growing concerns over environmental sustainability and the impact of fast fashion. The fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to pollution, waste, and carbon emissions, and the emphasis on recircularity aims to address these issues.

Today, major fashion brands and designers are embracing circularity by adopting sustainable practices such as producing clothes from recycled materials, offering repair services, and encouraging customers to recycle or donate their old garments. This shift towards a more circular approach reflects a growing awareness among consumers about the environmental consequences of fashion consumption and a desire to support brands that prioritize sustainability.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, circular fashion and the reuse of old clothes have deep historical roots, dating back to monarch times and further exemplified during World War II. The practices of mending, repurposing, and making the most out of existing clothing resources have resurfaced as crucial elements of modern society's efforts to promote sustainability and reduce the negative impact of the fashion industry on the environment. As the world recognizes the importance of preserving our planet, circular fashion continues to play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable and responsible future for the fashion industry.

References:

1. "Make Do and Mend - Google Books." https://www.google.co.uk/books/edition/Make_Do_and_Mend/YZAiAwAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=make+do+and+mend&printsec=frontcover, Accessed 1 Jan. 1970.
2. "10 Top Tips For Winning At 'Make Do And Mend' | Imperial War Museums." https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/10-top-tips-for-winning-at-make-do-and-mend, Accessed 1 Jan. 1970.