Here’s why polyester is out…
Polyester is plastic, it’s exactly the same material as a plastic bottle. Most of us are trying to cut out single use plastic but we don’t often think about our clothes.
This is why I don’t agree with all upcycling. Many designers are attempting to refashion an old garment to prevent in being thrown into landfill but while they are working to help the environment I believe they are simply delaying the inevitable. The upcycled garment will end up there in a few months, a year later.
In Amy Powney’s article in today’s Guardian Greenwashing is rife she talks about brands’ disregard for their supply chain but she sees hope as brands can afford to move towards natural fibres.
Switching to organic cotton is also a completely doable task.
Polyester is not biodegradable and we are learning more about the effects of microplastics on our health. They’re in the air, drinking water, dust, food …’ How to reduce your exposure to microplastics
Natural fibres are often more expensive, but second-hand is always an option, and if it’s not something you can change, don’t sweat it. “You can think about buying natural clothing – they do produce microfibres, but they’re not microplastics and they break down.
Clothing has got out of control so we need to rewind. We need to start growing linen again. Do you know we used to have linen reporters in the UK who would report on linen production?
We need to weave grass. We can make beautiful bags and sandals with this wonderful natural material.
And this method is quite durable, this bag has lasted a year so far.
Do we want a more localised aesthetic? Instead of everyone the world over buying the same garment from Zara? Could we go back to using what we have locally? Can we use the wool? The grass? The linen? Even the nettles?
Do we dare to stand out? Look different?
Would communities come together like before to create and to make?
Let me know what you think.