Confession: One of the reasons that I put off moving towards ethical fashion for so long was the social aspect of shopping.
You know what I mean?
I go shopping (or window shopping) all of the time with friends and family at the mall. It’s a natural and easy way to connect and share an experience.
And I know that a lot of people that start pursuing ethical fashion, don’t like to be surrounded by fast fashion anymore and so they avoid these consumerism hubs. I get that.
But for me? I’m not quitting the mall.
Here’s the thing: I’ve made my decision to only shop from ethical brands and that’s not changing. So I’m not afraid about the temptation of being at the mall.
What I am afraid of is isolating my friends and family. I’m afraid of being “that” person who is up on my soapbox and can’t relax enough to realize that my convictions are mine and mine alone.
I’m not going to influence anyone else’s decisions by being self righteous and judgmental. But I might influence someone by meeting them where they’re at.
So I’ll still be participating in the social aspect of shopping. I don’t need to buy something to enjoy the time that I’m having with my friend. The point is that I’m enjoying the relationship and that’s what really matters.
Before I started doing a capsule wardrobe and pursuing ethical fashion, buying something was what made the experience. Not anymore. Now, the experience is about spending time with my friend and focusing on our relationship… and I kind of like that.
Until next time,
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