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Written by Clarence Francisco
Video edited by Antonio Santos Jr.
Fashion and sustainability are two terms that can be contradictory–since fashion relies heavily on nature. For example, fur coats come from baby seals, and silk is made from silkworms. But, in recent years, some efforts are being made by celebrities and brands alike. In the recent Met Gala, Billie Eilish wore a Gucci gown made from “already existing materials.”
In the Philippine setting, can local brands be sustainable? How can being fashionable be sustainable? These are some of the questions asked to the people behind the Shirt Galere and Ecollective initiatives in the recent #tianggateasks: Should sustainability be part of your next fashion statement?
Shirt Galerē and Ecollective’s executives both favour a capsule wardrobe filled with timeless clothing that can be worn in every occasion or season, adding that consumers should be an advocate of sustainable fashion and to be mindful of the environment.
When asked if they are willing to have a capsule wardrobe to reduce spending, Ms. Heaven Medrano of Ecollective is open to the possibility, saying “...it’s quite an exciting thing to go beyond what’s usual. But, there will be things that we’ll always go back on.” Ms. Justin Caminos of Shirt Galere says that “...[capsule wardrobe] allows me to design or style as many as possible,” adding the fact that a capsule wardrobe “...is a valuable clothing collection.”
Thrifting is also an idea presented by the two start-up initiatives, with Shirt Galere emphasising on hidden gems in thrift stores and upcycling shirts bought from local brands. Ecollective is also pushing for thrifting as a way of sustainable shopping, adding that thrifting is a part of the sustainable lifestyle they advocate for.
With regard to sustainability being the next fashion statement, Ms. Frances Cunanan of Ecollective emphasizes that trendy pieces can be an addition to landfills, since trends eventually fade, so it is better to stick with timeless clothing–like a white tee, sneakers, etc. While Mr. Carlos Sagum advocates for thrifting, adding that there can be hidden gems in thrift stores and the ability of the youth to be creative when it comes to fashion.
Sustainable fashion in the Philippines is possible with enough education to the masses, as per Shirt Galere executives. Sustainable fashion is possible but it will be hard, said Ecollective, since new concepts are, oftentimes, not easily accepted by the public.
Dahil ang usapan ay sustainable fashion, go for ukay talaga and did you know? pwede kang magdonate ng sira or di na ginagamit na mga damit sa H&M and you'll get discount vouchers. I think yung dino-donate na mga damit ay nirere-produce nila to make new ones.