When you buy a cashmere sweater for a fraction of the cost of a designer one, you may believe that you’re getting a great bargain. But what you may not realize is that the lower-priced sweater is likely made of a much cheaper fabric, or much worse, from abused animals and underpaid farmers.
Cashmere is a luxury fibre that comes from the undercoat of cashmere goats. It’s soft, durable, and insulating, which is why it’s so popular for sweaters, hats, scarves, and other cold-weather accessories. It’s a prized possession – once you have it, you never want to let it go.
While it may be tempting to purchase a luxury item at a neat price tag, it’s important to be aware of where these items are coming from
Like cashmere, other pricey fabrics, such as silk and wool, are often found in fast fashion. Brands like Zara and H&M are known for their low prices and high turnover rates – items often sell out within a few days of hitting the shelves.
While it may be tempting to purchase a luxury item at a neat price tag, it’s important to be aware of where these items are coming from. Fast fashion brands often produce cheap knockoffs that aren’t made from the same quality fiber as the real thing. They also don’t follow the same ethical standards when it comes to sourcing and manufacturing.
Photo by Rui Silvestre via Unsplash
Animals like angora rabbits and cashmere goats are often subjected to extreme cruelty in the name of fashion
In fact, a lot of the cashmere, silk, and wool that’s sold at fast-fashion chains is made from the fiber of tortured animals. Animals like angora rabbits and cashmere goats are often subjected to extreme cruelty in the name of fashion.
And if your cashmere comes from this type of farming environment, don’t be surprised when it starts to pill and lose its softness after a few washes.
To make sure that you’re getting real value for your money, here’s how you can know you’re getting ethical, made-to-last luxury fabric:
Look for labels that indicate the fibre is 100% cashmere, silk, or wool.Avoid brands that have a high turnover rate – chances are the items aren’t made from quality materials.Make sure the brand you’re buying from has a good reputation for ethical sourcing and manufacturing.Look for brands that are transparent about their supply chains – this will give you an idea of how the garment was made.
Photo by Velizar Ivanov via Unsplash
When you take the time to find a well-made, ethically-produced luxury item, you’re not only getting a great product, but you’re also supporting responsible and sustainable fashion.
I’m sure you also don’t want to be caught wearing something that’s made from abused animals. So, be careful what you buy, and make sure to do your research before hitting checkout!
Our items at the indierepublik indie store are made from the highest standards of ethical fashion. We also have a no-hassle return policy, so you can feel confident in your purchase. Visit us today and shop guilt-free.
Featured Image by Danny G via Unsplash
Article by Joana Bagano
