Week Two: Reflection
Understanding My Perspective
This week we needed to write a manifesto and we were asked if this changed our perspective. While i don't think my view on fashion and sustainability changed, it help me to understand why these issues resonate so deeply with me. The process allowed me to reflect on my values and the challenges within the industry in a more structured way.
Insights from the Webinar
The webinar was incredibly insightful—I found listening to different perspectives and experiences enriching. One of the most thought-provoking discussions was around product passports and how they can be used to build a narrative for a garment. The concept of us not adhering to time in the context of a future 2040 world, was mind-blowing. It made me realise that my thinking is still very much solution-driven within the existing system, rather than stepping outside of it to gain a new perspective.
The Value of Imperfection
We also explored the idea of selling imperfect garments, drawing a parallel to how imperfect fruits and vegetables are often discarded. This made me wonder again—what to do with rejected garments and factory waste? Can we raise awareness and give them a story of their own?
Legally, the garments and materials belong to the brand, yet a factory is obliged to store them for up to three years. This discussion took me back to my old brand and the constant challenge of repurposing deadstock. There’s so much waste involved—additional fabric made as a buffer for rejects, scraps from pattern cutting, rejects due to shading variations, knit defects, sewing or printing errors, and even surplus accessories like elastic, buttons, trims, and threads.
It reminded me of a children's story I used to read to my kids, The Day the Crayons Quit. The message of the book introduces conflict between obligation and self-interest. The crayons became characters in their own right with their own hopes and dreams. Maybe there’s a way to do the same for rejected garments and waste—characterising their imperfections in a way that communicates the behind-the-scenes journey in a fun and engaging manner.
The Idea of Not Producing for Future Generations
Another idea that struck me was the concept of not making clothes for future generations. It’s a radical thought, but it also made me uneasy—if we stop producing and work with what we have already made, will we lose essential craftsmanship and textile skills? Materials degrade at different rates; for instance, the elastic in a skirt or swimsuit only lasts a few years. So, how do we preserve these materials that have already been made and have a shelf life?
Change is Happening
One of the more emotional moments for me was when a peer expressed her belief that no real change is happening. That perspective felt disheartening because, in my world, I do see skilled people working to address these challenges. From lawmakers pushing for regulations, to technical teams innovating with recycled yarns, to the innovation of alternative materials, to farmers transitioning to organic practices, change is happening. I see the real challenge is in scaling up and supporting the people doing this work.
Next Steps for My Manifesto
As for my manifesto, I will submit a first draft today for feedback. I plan to step away from it over the weekend, disconnect from my screen, and revisit it on Monday with fresh eyes before working on a second draft.
Core Values
- Connectivity
- Integrity
- Innovation
People I Most Admire
Thought leaders and pioneers who are working to help reshape the fashion industry with their commitment to sustainability and innovation:
My Experiences
- Born and raised in the Cotswolds, UK, with a deep connection to nature.
- Raising my family in Singapore, a green urban jungle on the equator.
- Lifelong practitioner of yoga, which shapes my mindset, creativity, and connection to the world.
- Active in the United World College community, fostering peace, sustainability, and global citizenship.
- Two decades of experience in commercial fine knit design, manufacturing, and retail.
- Extensive global travels exposing me to diverse cultures, traditions, and heritage craftsmanship.
- Firsthand experience in Bangladesh with the complexities and challenges faced by developing countries.
Central Theme
Connections with nature, purposeful design, and appreciation of craftsmanship.
Top Core Value
- Connectivity
What is Important to Me?
The fashion industry must learn to work within the planet’s natural limits and redefine our relationship with clothes.
What Concerns Me?
The fashion industry’s disconnect from nature has made it a major driver of pollution, resource depletion, and waste.
Personal Values
- Authenticity
- Innovation
- Purpose
What Do I Want to Change and Why?
Option 1: Fashion’s Disconnect with Nature
I want to explore how circularity can offer sustainable solutions to issues such as:
- Chemical Use in textile production
- Fibre Dominance, reducing reliance on cotton and polyester
- Circularity through biomimicry in design
Option 2: Systemic Disconnect in Fashion
The industry lacks alignment and accountability across key players—customers, brands, producers, and governments. I want to address:
- Greenwashing and misleading sustainability claims
- Ethical and environmental issues in supply chains
- Weak labour and environmental regulations
Option 3: Reconnecting with Materials
Industrialisation has distanced us from textiles, leading to overconsumption and waste. Solutions include:
- Community-driven initiatives to reconnect people with textiles
- Reviving and preserving traditional craftsmanship
- Encouraging repair, up-cycling, and small-scale production
- Fostering an emotional connection with textiles
Final Thoughts
I deeply appreciate the discussions from the webinar, as they reinforced the importance of connecting with a community of like-minded individuals who are also striving to make meaningful change in the fashion industry. It’s inspiring to see people working toward sustainable solutions, and these conversations encourage me to continue pushing for innovation and accountability. Being part of this collective effort gives me hope that together, we can redefine the future of fashion.
Thank you for being on this journey with me. Let's continue to challenge the status quo, advocate for change, and celebrate the beauty of mindful, sustainable fashion.
With gratitude, Tala 🌿✨
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