Slow Fashion
Hello hello!
Quarantine and social distancing haven’t really been a productive time for updating our wardrobes as we stay inside and make use of our pajamas. That’s why it’s lovely to see that as we’re returning to normal more and more people are looking to celebrate themselves by shopping for new and exciting outfits to wear out. The excitement is a boon for a designer like me looking to share her art with my community and I love helping people to look and feel their best selves. With excitement comes expectation and the truth about my limits as a creator who prioritizes honest and sustainable work, a movement in the industry known as “slow fashion”.
Slow fashion, as opposed to “fast fashion” which is the industry standard, is about working with local artists and creators using sustainable resources that are environmentally and socially healthy. Through this process, we support expert craftsmanship over mass-produced ware so that both producer and consumer have the best experience possible. It can mean spending a little more and taking extra time, but the result is worth it. I’ve had conversations with a few clients lately explaining this process and I figured with it coming up more it was worth sharing with all of my lovely readers!
Ready-to-wear. Apparel for the whole crew.
Within this system of slow fashion, I essentially work at three different tiers of production. The first is what I call “ready-to-wear”. I use a small company that hand-sews multiple prints which allows me to offer a variety of prints at a modest price like the linen dress pictured above.
One-of-a-kind. Select ware for besties.
The second tier is a medium run, “one-of-a-kind” production. I create a pattern and a size run using different hand-printed fabrics for each dress. This is a great option for those that want to have a fresh wearable art piece.
Custom-made. For the belle of the ball.
The third tier is completely custom. I create a custom-made pattern with a unique style and fabric for that specific order which is then priced accordingly. If you’re interested in a piece just for you like the wedding dress pictured above, this is the way to go.
I’m currently working on adding a few new custom silhouettes to my one-of-a-kind line so keep an eye out for updates. If reading about all this fashion has you excited to do some shopping, you can find all of my offerings available at the Amanda James Gallery. If you have any questions, feel free to email us or give us a call!
Thank you for taking the time to read this entry. I hope you’ve found it informative and feel good to know that work from my studio is made consciously with the communities best interest in my heart.
Remember to shop local, be kind to staff, and tip generously!
Love,
The Preppy Punk
- Amanda J.