7 reasons to choose local over fast fashion
Have you ever seen something online that looks amazing, only to find out when it arrives that it’s not at all like the photo, is made of scratchy fabric, and fits weird? Or have you purchased the latest fashion from a major outlet only to have it split at the seams within a few wears?
Sure, fast fashion costs less, but at what cost? Here are 7 reasons why you should choose local designs over fast fashion.
1. Durability and longevity: I have a dress in my summer rotation that I made more than 20 years ago. And many of my clients have had similar pieces in their closets for more than a decade. Why is that? Well, these clothes are made well with high-quality fabric, so they stay in excellent condition. And because designs are timeless, they never go out of style—even over the course of 20 years.
2. Fit and feel: I choose fabrics that are soft to the touch and feel good against your skin. Designs are created for a variety of body types, so you can find a fit that works for you. And when you see the pieces in person, they look just like the pictures. No surprises. As well, they won’t shrink when you wash them (yes, you can toss them in your washing machine), because either they’re made of fabrics that don’t shrink, or I pre-shrink them, so they always fit the same as the first day you try them on.
3. Versatile: Sure, you may not be able to buy as many pieces of local clothing as you can of fast fashion. But you can still curate an entire wardrobe with mix-and-match pieces that you can style for work, dress up for a special night out, or dress down for a casual outing. A jean jacket, belt, or leggings can change the outfit’s vibe and give you a completely different look.
4. Local and Canadian: All the fabrics I source are Canadian, and I make the clothing in my studio in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. Buying Canadian means no tariffs or duties. And buying from a small business supports your community, as your money stays in the local economy. Win/win.
5. Environmentally friendly and ethical: Because of quality fabrics and craftsmanship, these pieces don’t fall apart. And, if they show signs of wear, you can get them repaired instead of tossing them into the landfill. They also have a reduced carbon footprint, as clothes don’t have to travel as far to reach you. Plus, you know who made your clothes—me!—not someone in a sweatshop.
6. Styling and alteration services: I will help you pick out the right style and shape for your body and where you are in life, at no additional cost. Whether it’s for work or something for play, casual or dressy, I can help you find a suitable match. I can also tailor each piece right to your body, making nips and tucks for the perfect fit. If you need repairs, I’ll make that happen, too. And if you see a style that you like but want a different fabric, I can whip something up just for you.
7. Stand out from the crowd: I choose patterns and colours that are unique, and I only make a few of each piece, so you are purchasing something that very few people have, and in some cases, a piece that is truly is one of a kind. You stand out from the crowd rather than having clothing that literally thousands of other people are wearing.
Choosing local designs over fast fashion means investing in quality, sustainability, and uniqueness, all while supporting your community and reducing your environmental impact. If you would like to learn more, I’m happy to chat about Amaranth Designs and my services. Just drop me a line here: https://amaranthdesigns.ca/pages/contact-us.
That consistency in sizing is even more important in the age of online shopping. There’s nothing quite as frustrating as spending all that time browsing and then waiting for a piece to arrive, only for it to completely disappoint when you put it on.
