This Just In.

Recorded Live on WNHH 103.5 FM! Just In Time Conversations Host Justin Farmer Talks Trashion with Rebekah, Founder of Trash to Fashion

I made a big announcement during my appearance on Just In Time Conversations yesterday.

Once I spilled that tea, Justin and I talked about the stories we tell ourselves and how they affect our choices. We touched on how the stories we’re sold through certain media manipulate us into believing certain things.

For example:

This car is a couple of years old. It’s time to get a new one.

This shirt is faded. I have to throw it away.

These pants are out of style. I can’t wear them anymore.

I can’t let people see me wear the same dress to more than one event.

Sustainable fashion isn’t worth the cost.

I can’t make my own clothes.

I’m on a budget, so I save money by buying cheap stuff.

Do any of these stories sound vaguely familiar ?

Can you see how these stories all lead you to the same behavior? Shopping. Through carefully crafted stories like these, the manufacturing and retail industries created a consumer culture.

But these stories are made up. And we can choose to learn the truth:

They may show signs of wear, but many cars are built to last a decade or more if properly maintained. (read: find a good mechanic you trust!)

You can refresh a faded shirt with dye, embroidery, screen printing, decorative patching, and more. Or you can cut it and reassemble it into another garment, accessory or decor.

The concept of being “in-style” was created by an industry that wants people to buy new things more often. Unbelieve that story. Wear what you love with confidence, regardless of what you see on the runways and in fashion magazines this year. You can also refashion those pants into a skirt.

Since when do we need new outfits for every occasion? No one’s eyes will fall out if you wear the same beautiful outfit to a few events. You might inspire them to do the same! But if you really want to switch it up, try borrowing or swapping with a friend, or get something new-to-you for a night at Rent the Runway.

Sustainable fashion costs more because everyone involved in making the garment is paid a fair wage and because the materials and dyes used to produce the garment are healthier for the environment (and all the people, plants, and creatures who inhabit it) where it’s produced.

You may not have the skills to make clothes now, but come to our events and you’ll learn some basics. ASAP, we’ll be posting other resources, like tutorials and places that hold sewing classes.

Cheap stuff may cost less initially, but it also wears out or breaks sooner. Fast fashion companies are notorious for stitching garments so they will come apart in less than a year, sometimes within a few wearings.

Let’s stop being manipulated by the fast fashion industry and take our power back! For more, read…