Fast fashion: an exponential problem
Fast fashion has established itself as a production and consumption model that prioritizes speed and low cost, encouraging impulsive and disposable clothing purchases. However, this consumption model has a dark side that we often ignore. The fashion industry is responsible for approximately 10% of global carbon emissions, a higher percentage than international flights and maritime shipping combined. Additionally, this model generates a significant water pollution problem: it is estimated that 20% of the world’s wastewater comes from textile dyeing and treatment processes.
The environmental impact of fast fashion doesn’t end there. Every year, tons of clothing end up in landfills, and much of this apparel is made of synthetic fibers such as polyester, which can take hundreds of years to decompose. Meanwhile, the working conditions of those producing this clothing are deeply concerning. Endless workdays, minimum wages, and unsafe workplaces are just some of the realities faced by textile workers in developing countries.
Faced with this situation, it’s clear that change is necessary: we must rethink our relationship with fashion and choose more sustainable alternatives, such as slow fashion a concept that is deeply embedded in POEMS’ philosophy of work and design.
The benefits of slow fashion
In contrast to fast fashion, slow fashion invites us to reflect on quality, ethics, and sustainability in clothing consumption. This movement, which advocates for reducing mass production and prioritizing the well-being of the planet and its people, is deeply integrated into POEMS’ vision. Choosing slow fashion offers multiple benefits:
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Reducing Fashion’s Environmental Impact: At POEMS, we design garments using natural fabrics such as organic cotton and wool materials that are not only biodegradable but also minimize the ecological footprint. By choosing environmentally friendly garments, we reduce the pollution associated with synthetic fibers.
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Quality and Durability: POEMS’ slow fashion is designed to last. Each piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using high-quality materials and careful manufacturing techniques. This ensures that our garments can accompany you for years, retaining their appearance and functionality.
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Support for Local Economy and Ethical Labor: A fundamental part of our mission is to maintain local production in Barcelona. This not only allows us to ensure fair working conditions but also fosters economic development within our community and reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
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Timeless Designs: At POEMS, we believe less is more. That’s why our collections focus on classic and versatile pieces that transcend fleeting trends, promoting more conscious and functional consumption.
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Emotional Connection with Garments: By choosing quality garments like those we offer, consumers often form an emotional connection with their purchases. This encourages special care for the items, prolonging their lifespan and reducing waste.
How to Find Slow Fashion
To incorporate slow fashion into your life, POEMS invites you to follow these steps:
1. Research Brands
It’s important to choose brands that share your values regarding sustainability and ethics. At POEMS, we pride ourselves on being transparent about our practices—from the origin of our materials to the local workshops where we produce our collections. We believe trust is key to building a strong relationship with our customers.
2. Opt for Natural Fabrics
Choosing the right materials is essential. At POEMS, we prioritize natural fabrics that are kind to both the environment and your skin. Organic cotton, linen, and wool are some of the materials we feature in our collections to offer you comfort and sustainability in every garment.
3. Shop Locally
Supporting local brands benefits both the planet and the community. Producing in Barcelona allows us to reduce fashion’s environmental impact and maintain strict quality control at every stage of the process, ensuring each piece reflects our values.
4. Invest in Quality
At POEMS, we promote conscious consumption. Our garments are designed to be durable and timeless, helping you build a functional and sustainable wardrobe while avoiding resource waste.
5. Take Care of Your Clothes
Slow fashion requires attention to maintain its quality over time. We recommend washing our garments at low temperatures, avoiding excessive use of the dryer, and repairing them when needed. This way, each piece can accompany you for years.
Adopting slow fashion is not just an environmental decision but an ethical and personal commitment. At POEMS, we firmly believe that each garment can be a tool to transform the fashion industry and care for the planet. Our collections reflect a philosophy that prioritizes sustainability, quality, and respect for people and the environment.
We invite you to discover our collections and join the movement. Together, we can prove that slow fashion is not only possible but necessary.