Fashion Revolution Foundation

Fashion Revolution is a global movement that works towards systemic reform in the fashion industry, with a special focus on the need for greater transparency and sustainability in the supply chain. We believe in a fashion industry that values people, the environment, creativity and profit in equal measure. Our mission is to unite the fashion industry and to radically change the way our clothes are sourced, produced, purchased and disposed of, so that what the world wears has been made in a safe, clean and fair way. On the 24th April 2013, the Rana Plaza building in Bangladesh collapsed. There were five garment factories in Rana Plaza all manufacturing clothing for global brands. A total of ... read more Fashion Revolution is a global movement that works towards systemic reform in the fashion industry, with a special focus on the need for greater transparency and sustainability in the supply chain. We believe in a fashion industry that values people, the environment, creativity and profit in equal measure. Our mission is to unite the fashion industry and to radically change the way our clothes are sourced, produced, purchased and disposed of, so that what the world wears has been made in a safe, clean and fair way. On the 24th April 2013, the Rana Plaza building in Bangladesh collapsed. There were five garment factories in Rana Plaza all manufacturing clothing for global brands. A total of 1,138 people died and another 2,500 were injured, making it the fourth largest industrial disaster in history. The victims were mostly young women. That's when Fashion Revolution was born. We believe that 1,138 is too many people to lose from the planet in one building, on one terrible day to not stand up and demand change. Fashion Revolution's Objectives: To raise awareness of the true cost of fashion and its impact at every stage, from the process of production through to consumption and disposal. To show the world that change is possible by showcasing and celebrating those proving that fashion can be made with respect to people and planet. To bring people together the length of the value chain, from farmers to factory workers, brands to buyers, consumers to campaigners, to ask questions that challenge how fashion is made and by whom, and to work towards re-connecting the broken links between those who produce, sell and buy fashion. To work towards long-term industry-wide change so that fashion becomes a force for good and that all business is conducted in a safe, healthy, fair way. We celebrate fashion as a positive influence while also scrutinising industry practices and raising awareness of the fashion industry's most pressing issues. We aim to show that change is possible and encourage those who are on a journey to create a more ethical and sustainable future for fashion. Fashion Revolution strives to be action-oriented and solution focused. Rather than making people feel guilty, we help them recognise that they have the power to do something to make a positive change. We often call ourselves 'pro-fashion protesters' because we love fashion and want to see it become a force for good. Our 'Manifesto for a Fashion Revolution' perfectly encapsulates our desire to see a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly fashion industry emerge: We are Fashion Revolution. We are designers, producers, makers, workers and consumers. We are academics, writers, business leaders, brands, retailers, trade unions and policymakers. We are the industry and the public. We are world citizens. We are a movement and a community. We are you. We love fashion. But we don't want our clothes to exploit people or destroy our planet. We demand radical, revolutionary change. This is our dream. The 10 points linked to this statement set out how Fashion Revolution champions sustainability and protection of the environment across the different strands of the industry: #1 Fashion provides dignified work, from conception to creation to catwalk. It does not enslave, endanger, exploit, overwork, harass, abuse or discriminate against anyone. Fashion liberates worker and wearer and empowers everyone to stand up for their rights. #2 Fashion provides fair and equal pay. It enriches the livelihood of everyone working across the industry, from farm to shop floor. Fashion lifts people out of poverty, creates thriving societies and fulfils aspiration. #3 Fashion gives people a voice, making it possible to speak up without fear, join together in unity without repression and negotiate for better conditions at work and across communities. #4 Fashion respects culture and heritage. It fosters, celebrates and rewards skills and craftsmanship. It recognises creativity as its strongest asset. Fashion never appropriates without giving due credit or steals without permission. Fashion honours the artisan. #5 Fashion stands for solidarity, inclusiveness and democracy, regardless of race, class, gender, age, shape or ability. It champions diversity as crucial for success. #6 Fashion conserves and restores the environment. It does not deplete precious resources, degrade our soil, pollute our air and water or harm our health. Fashion protects the welfare of all living things and safeguards our diverse ecosystems. #7 Fashion never unnecessarily destroys or discards but mindfully redesigns and recuperates in a circular way. Fashion is repaired, reused, recycled and upcycled. Our wardrobes and landfills do not overflow with clothes that are coveted but not cherished, bought but not kept. #8 Fashion is transparent and accountable. Fashion embraces clarity and does not hide behind complexity nor rely upon trade secrets to derive value. Anyone, anywhere can find out how, where, by whom and under what conditions their clothing is made. #9 Fashion measures success by more than just sales and profits. Fashion places equal value on financial growth, human wellbeing and environmental sustainability. #10 Fashion lives to express, delight, reflect, protest, comfort, commiserate and share. Fashion never subjugates, denigrates, degrades, marginalises or compromises. Fashion celebrates life.