Intentional Consumerism in Today's Fashion Landscape

In a world where fast fashion absolutely reigns supreme, it’s easy to get swept up in the thrill of new trends and impulse purchases. As we are now gently becoming more aware of the environmental and social impact of our buying habits, the draw to be more intentional consumers has never been more desirable.

Listening recently to Aparna Mehta speaking on podcast episode "State of Fashion," TED Radio Hour, in a powerful statement she encapsulated a mindset that resonates with me and possibly many who are rethinking their relationship with clothing. 'I don't buy with the intent to return', she says. This phrase speaks to the importance of thoughtful purchasing which is a commitment to the items we choose to bring into our lives and in this case clothing.

How do we begin to understand what intentional consumerism in fashion means to us personally and individually? How do we become intentional consumers? For me, it begins by asking myself some gentle questions.

- What do I love about this item of clothing?

Is it the color, the fit, the way it makes me feel? It's usually how I feel when I am wearing the piece. Fashion is a form of self expression for me. When I connect with a piece, it’s likely to have a longer life in my wardrobe and maybe in yours too.

- Can I pass it along to someone else?

Fashion used to be a communal experience. In the 90s and 00s, I remember it was so common and enjoyable to swap clothes with friends, lending pieces out for special occasions or simply sharing something you no longer needed. This practice not only extended the life of garments but also fostered a sense of love, friendship, closeness and community.

So, why not revive this tradition if only for fun and sheer enjoyment! What a gorgeous way to spend some time with friends! You may find yourselves reminiscing on amusing or even mischievous events the clothing prompts you to remember... an indirect bonus! Of course you will be helping to reduce waste whilst also building a more sustainable and connected community.

- Does it hurt not to buy it?

Oh this one..! My heart hurts sometimes for the longing of a beautiful piece! If not, perhaps it may be that the item isn’t essential or that it would potentially become an impulse purchase which I would no doubt later regret as that wasteful purchase would weigh on my mind. I think the idea is to focus on what truly resonates with an individual's style and, importantly, one's needs.

When you shop, especially for clothing, I gently encourage you to reflect on these questions. Being an intentional consumer simply means, to me and perhaps to you too, giving a little extra thought to the choices you make. If a Roisin Ni Loingsigh piece speaks to you and you are taking time to consider, please get in touch and know that I’m here to help. If it happens that after taking time to think about making a purchase, that the item is then out of stock, you are so welcome to please reach out to me. I will do my best to accommodate you. This is an excellent service fashion designers operating independently on a small scale offer that the large fast fashion industry simply just cannot offer. It is an extremely valuable consideration to keep in mind and above all to share with one another.

The alternative, fast fashion, might offer quick gratification but, unfortunately as we are now painfully aware, it often leads to overconsumption, waste and environmental harm. By taking the time to think about each purchase, we are not just buying an item of clothing, we are investing in something that can bring us a lot of joy and serve a purpose in our lives or in someone else’s!

For me, intentionality in fashion is not about perfection but about progress. Every small and thoughtful choice made contributes to a more sustainable world and a more meaningful wardrobe with lots of character developed over time resulting in your own personal and treasured fashion collection.

Please find the link below and enjoy the wonderful podcast episode that prompted me to document these floating thoughts of mine!

Zomorodi, M. (2024) "State of Fashion," TED Radio Hour, NPR. September 6. Available at https://open.spotify.com/episode/6sfJC64pjXj5h9glaDTcum?si=9Z7kpu_3RxysuHWC6-QcJQ [Accessed September 6, 2024]