The people behind the fashion industry: workers, small businesses and consumer responsibility

With the globalisation of the fashion industry and it being one of the largest industries in the world, it encourages the question- who is behind the fashion industry?

When answering this question, it is obvious to think about the big business owners of brands that dominate the fast fashion scene such as the Boohoo, LVMH or Inditex groups. Although these business owners are essential characters within the industry, I believe that under the surface of the fashion industry remain the people that make our clothes, small businesses that move the industry towards a sustainable future, and consumers that keep the industry thriving.

Who makes your clothes?

Across fashion brands and retailers, there is often little emphasis on who makes the garments you buy. The reality is that the fashion industry wouldn’t survive without garment factory workers who make the clothes. Due to consumers questioning brands about the ethical practices and working conditions for the people who made their clothes, brands are slowly starting to become more transparent, as people become more aware of the necessity of equal and safe working conditions.

Independent businesses and shopping small

Small and independent businesses are just as important within the fashion industry compared to the leading top retailers! Shopping small has many benefits from supporting a local or start- up business to having pieces that are individual and unique to your wardrobe. Small businesses are perfect additions to the industry to support the sustainability movement as they are often transparent about their sourcing and have shorter lead times with a lower carbon footprint. Using deadstock fabrics or using recycled or FairTrade materials are just a few ways that small businesses create clothes that are made to last!

Consumer responsibility

You as a consumer, and the way you shop, also contributes to the fashion industry! The fashion industry itself thrives off consumer loyalty and purchases made and I believe that the way we shop impacts the global industry itself. Changing shopping habits and making sustainable alternatives makes a positive impact on the fashion industry and works towards a more sustainable and ethical future.

Overall, the fashion industry is built on a foundation of people from garment workers to small business owners who all contribute to the industry as a whole and the future of fashion!

Thanks for reading,

Ria x