Fair-Trade Fashion & Why it’s Important | with Liz Alig
What is fair-trade?
According to the World Fair Trade Organization the definition of fair trade is "a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers…Fair Trade organizations have a clear commitment to Fair Trade as the principal core of their mission. They, backed by consumers, are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade."
Fair Trade is more than just trading:
- It proves that greater justice in world trade is possible.
- It highlights the need for change in the rules and practice of conventional trade and shows how a successful business can also put people first.
- It is a tangible contribution to the fight against poverty, climate change and economic crisis.
Fair-Trade Fashion Brands
A lot of fair-trade fashion brands have to meet a certain criteria to be certified as Fair-trade to have the WFTO Mark.
Fair trade fashion brands typically work with grassroot manufacturers or artisans to produce their work. And these workers work in good condition with livable wages.
Fair-trade is ethical. Fast fashion has also gained a reputation for exploiting their workers, especially at the manufacturing level. Fair-trade fights against that. Workers are respected and paid.
Why it’s Important
Fair-trade fashion is important because it’s ethical. Workers are paid well & working conditions are good. Fair-trade also supports grass-root businesses & local artisans which ultimately helps that community and their families.
Fair-trade fashion is a way to combat fast fashion. Fair-trade fashion brands typically produce less quantities. They focus more on quality. They are not fighting to get out the latest trend. Fair-trade fashion is a stem of slow-fashion which is ultimately better for the earth and for people.
My Story
I was first introduced to the concept of fair-trade when I was in college. I accidently signed up to be a part of the International development conference that my school put on every year. I went into the meeting not knowing anything about international development.
But through organizing and participating, I grew an interest in international development. That was where I learned about the concept of fair-trade. The financial benefits of that business model for developing countries and the ethical benefits of fair-trade for the world.
Liz Alig
Liz Alig is a fair-trade fashion brand I found on Instagram a few years ago. Since then I’ve followed their journey & have been a fan ever since. You can read more about their mission here.
I’m glad to be collaborating with Liz Alig on this post. I’ve mentioned them numerous times on my Instagram. Their Louissa dress is still one of my favorite dresses of all time.
Today’s dress is their June dress. I love the unique striped patterns. A lot of their summer collection is currently on sale so definitely go check it out here!
I hope this encourages you to do your own research about fair-trade fashion. If you’re curious about a fair-trade brand, they’re usually transparent about the people they work with & the community they’re invested in.
Remember that supporting a fair-trade brand, you’re supporting more than just the brand. What are some fair-trade brands (fashion or not) that you like? Share them below!
OUTFIT DETAILS:
June Dress: Liz Alig | Shop dress here
Tan Sandals: Everlane | Shop sandals here
~ Sincerely, Mainou
CONNECT WITH ME: Insta - @daysbymc | Email - click here
FTC: June dress was gifted from Liz Alig. All opinions are my own.