every purchase tells someone somewhere, "keep doing what you are doing".
i want my purchases to be sending my messages…"i value and support what you are doing! keep it up!"
i really feel like a simple wardrobe is a foundation for change..mostly in me, but also hopefully, in the world.
having a small number of items in my closet and knowing that they are enough has enabled me to:
1. need and want less, and as a result consume less
2. have the time and space to think about my purchases carefully, because there aren't many
3. have a bit more time to make my own clothing or thrift, because i don't need many new items
4. have a bit more money to support independent makers, again because i don't need many items
5. have a little more money to buy organic, local, whole food, because i am spending less on clothing
i know that not buying mass produced clothing may not provide more food, money or employment for the suffering workers overseas immediately, but i hope that enough of us not buying cheap clothing and supporting ethical companies will convince fast fashion companies that they are not providing what consumers want.
ann voskamp says, "be different and know everything you do matters. it’s what the Christ followers know: one man with God can change a culture. God didn’t put people in your path mostly for your convenience; He put you there for theirs. loving the poor will make you rich, i promise."
and for a little more: this. i love when the author, katrina rodabaugh says, As one of my environmental studies professors in college told me, "Focus on what you can do to make a difference, not on what you can't."
i do have a voice. and so do you.
let's make them heard!
love, jane