Quality Over Quantity
Invest in fewer pieces that are made to last. Look for reinforced seams, natural fibers, and high-quality hardware that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Editorial Series
Slow Fashion 101:
Slow Fashion 101:
A Beginner's Guide to Buying Less, Wearing More.
An introduction to the movement that prioritizes quality over quantity, and how Texly fits into the quiet revolution of mindful consumption.
By Sarah Jenkins • October 12, 2023 • 8 min read
The Beginning
What is Slow Fashion and Why It Emerged
Slow fashion is a philosophy and a system of production and consumption. It advocates for buying better-quality garments that will last longer, and values fair treatment of people, animals, and the planet as much as people, animals, and the planet.
The movement emerged as a direct counter-reaction to "fast fashion"—the disposable culture of cheap, trendy clothing produced at breakneck speed. Fast fashion promised affordability and variety, but at a hidden cost. Slow fashion asks us to pause, to question the lifecycle of what we wear, and to invest in pieces that serve us rather than the other way around.
The Reality
The True Cost of Fast Fashion
The environmental footprint of the fashion industry is staggering. It is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions—more than international flights and maritime shipping combined. Furthermore, the industry is the second-largest consumer of water globally, with the production of a single cotton t-shirt requiring up to 2,700 liters of water.
On a human level, the rush for speed often compromises safety and wages. In 2013, the Rana Plaza collapse in Bangladesh, which killed over 1,100 garment workers, exposed the dangerous conditions endemic to the race for the lowest price tag. Slow fashion seeks to dismantle this system by advocating for transparency, fair wages, and safe working environments.
The Guide
Five Principles of a Slow Wardrobe
Timeless Design
Avoid fleeting trends that will be out of style in six months. Choose neutral palettes and classic cuts that transcend seasons and cycles.
Natural Fibers
Prioritize organic cotton, linen, hemp, and Tencel. These materials are biodegradable, breathable, and generally produced with less environmental impact than synthetics.
Care for Longevity
Treat your clothes with care. Wash less frequently, wash in cold water, and air dry to preserve the integrity of the fabric and reduce energy consumption.
Mindful Consumption
Ask yourself if you need the item before you buy it. Consider the story behind the garment and whether it aligns with your values and lifestyle.
The Practice
How to Start: A Practical Capsule Approach
Building a capsule wardrobe doesn't mean you have to throw everything away. It means curating a collection of versatile pieces that mix and match effortlessly.
Start by auditing your current closet. Identify the pieces you wear most and those you haven't touched in a year. Then, identify gaps: do you need a versatile layer? A pair of trousers that works for work and weekends? Once you know what you need, shop intentionally. Look for neutral colors that can be layered, and focus on one high-quality addition per month rather than a weekly haul.
Case Study
Texly's Design Philosophy
At Texly, we embody the slow fashion principles through our material sourcing and production methods. We don't chase trends; we focus on the tactile experience of the garment.
For example, our Stonewashed Linen Shirt is designed to be worn open as a layer or buttoned up for structure. It is made from European Flax-verified linen, which requires significantly less water than cotton and becomes softer with every wash. Our bamboo-cotton blend loungewear is GOTS-certified, ensuring that from the soil to your skin, the process is safe and sustainable. We believe that when you wear Texly, you are wearing a commitment to quality and calm.
Resources
Further Reading & Organizations
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