Tanjuria Willis, the CEO of eKlozet and founder of the first Sustainable Fashion Week - Atlanta, joined us a few years ago, and for many, it was the first time we’d heard the terms fast fashion, disposable fashion, and sustainable fashion. In the last few years, awareness about Sustainable Fashion has spread to become an international quest to change the world one garment at a time. Sustainable Fashion Week Atlanta takes place October 10th - 14th.
I asked Willis if she had seen a change in the consumption of fast fashion in the last few years or if consumption by the public had changed even with the rise of low-cost online trendy stores offering fashion at the click of the finger. Willis shares that there has been some change, especially with young people. She speaks about the rise of “buy nothing” groups and friends that regularly swap clothing.
Willis goes on to share that more companies have begun incorporating sustainable fashion options, including the largest zipper manufacturer in the world, YKK. She also wants us to buy sustainable fabrics her favorite being wool which comes in various weights and patterns. We should avoid the rayons and polyesters. Some highlights this year include a student design competition.
The end of the year is approaching, and many people will begin to purge their closets and make donations for the end of the year. Most of us sort items into throwaways, donations, and sell. I asked if there were other options, and she said that we shouldn’t add clothing to the landfills. Instead, look for an artist group that uses fabric in their work. Willis also encourages us to reach out to other non-profits such as shelters.
Willis gives us an update on eKlozet and shares that they host sip-and-shop parties to showcase vintage fashions and accessories.
For more information about Sustainable Fashion Week-Atlanta
For more information about Tanjuria Willis
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