Brighton Fashion Week is officially over for another year, with an array of events completed successfully. A particular stand out was the Sustain show, showcasing designers who make sure the environment is a priority when assembling their collections.

The variety of the show proved that sustainability never has to be a limitation and in fact seemed to inspire more original use of materials and cuts. Particular stand outs were the modern yet elegant printed silk pieces by Kitty Ferreira, and the vibrant floral and nature prints of KellyDawn Riot’s menswear collection.

Emma North, a member of the Brighton Fashion Week production team, explained the significance of the show’s place in the program: ‘It’s one of the only fashion weeks in the country which puts any emphasis on sustainable fashion, which really helps raise awareness as to how the industry needs to change. It’s the leading edge in sustainable catwalk shows.’

The show held itself responsible, meaning attention was paid to every detail in order to prove eco-friendly fashion is a viable option – selecting shoes, hair brands, make-up lines and sponsors with the same ideals.

It’s refreshing to say the least that in a world of fast fashion progress is visibly happening. After all, many have seen documentaries such as The True Cost, but with so many causes to fight for it can be depressing if unsurprising if the world loses interest. Thankfully, you only need to walk around central Brighton to feel some home-pride at so many shops with an environmental and ethical focus. The FAIR Shop on Queen’s Road as well as Vegetarian Shoes on Gardner Street are good places to start.

When it comes to changing up your own purchasing habits, Emma has some advice: ‘Research your favourite brands to see how and where your clothes are being produced to get a bit of perspective – then compare it with the new, cutting-edge brands which are trying to change how the fast-fashion cycle works with countless manufacturing innovations’. It’s a lifestyle choice that is accessible regardless of student budgets, as these are clothes built with durability in mind and there are affordable brands out there.

I look forward to seeing the Future Fashion Project’s evolution next year.

Alice Nettleship

Image by Malcolm Tam

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Sustainable fashion and the future

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