We’re bringing together some of the most valuable contributors in the local fashion industry to discuss the importance of policy and sustainability in creating systemic change. The goal is to raise awareness about the biggest issues to date (ex: waste), what we each are doing to address them here in Washington, and empower our community to get involved. There will be time to network and build relationships, especially with current and recently graduate fashion students. The event will be hosted in collaboration with Prairie Underground and the Remake Seattle Community. Speakers include: Janelle Abbott – Local Designer, Megan Arnaud – Eileen Fisher, Camilla Eckersley – Prairie Underground, JeLisa Marshall – Remake & Seattle Made. Below are three interviews by Remake Seattle Ambassadors.
VICTORIA’S INTERVIEW
What is your occupation?
International Licensing Associate
2021
Why did you join Remake?
To join an organization of like-minded individuals all working toward a collective goal of a sustainable fashion future.
To be honest, a person doesn’t initially come to mind when I read this question. I feel very connected to our beautiful mother earth and that typically serves as enough inspiration for me to continue the work I am doing. But it also is meeting so many different types of people who share my perspectives/ideals about a positive climate future that inspire me.
It is an industry that exhibits symbiosis in every practice and does whatever it takes to get there. Where the end of life of a product is given more thought than the creation, the hands that create these products are cared for, and the earth is not stripped of its vital nutrients
How do you choose to wear your values?
This is actually a difficult question for me because at the beginning of my sustainable fashion journey I became a fashion martyr. I was an extremist and did not buy anything new for years and rarely thrifted – this clearly – was unsustainable in the long run. This phase in my journey resulted in me loathing shopping, my choice of retailers I was surrounded by, and eventually, my own wardrobe. To be honest, I am still trying to find the balance of what wearing “my” values look like, but I think I am getting closer to it everyday.
What do you think is the most important way for people to engage more sustainably with the fashion industry?
I think a simple act of thinking twice about what you’re buying – is it an impulse buy… or something you can see yourself wearing for the long run. That and I think word of mouth goes a long way, so simply sharing information about your sustainable purchase whether with friends or on social media is a good way to get others to talk and learn about it.
I think educating yourself is the most accessible thing anyone can do virtually from anywhere and maybe applying some of those learned concepts the next time you decide to purchase a product.
Aida’S INTERVIEW
Name: Aida Amirul
Pronouns: she/they
What is your occupation?
Digital Communications Specialist at a statewide environmental non-profit
When did you join Remake?
April 2023
Why did you join Remake?
Remake’s mission to eliminate unfair labor conditions for garment workers who are on the frontlines of the climate crisis perfectly represents the intersection of my personal passions in environmental justice, labor justice, and fashion.
My workers union. Every win we’ve achieved as a union has reminded me that intentional, organized action is how we can reclaim our power and have a say in the crucial decisions that impact our everyday lives –whether in demanding fairer labor practices or passing environmental justice policies. A just, sustainable reality is possible when we work together and demand it.
Zakiya’S INTERVIEW
Director
In 2018
For a community of like-minded folks and resources!
My passion and love for my community and the planet!
Launching The Chayah Movement and hearing the feedback from our first cohort.
More circularity, more access, less consumption and transparency as a minimum requirement.
I choose to rewear, take good care of what I have and focus on pre-owned before looking for something new.
To be curious about the brands you support and to also think about their why. What do you value and tap in.
You can care of what you have, rewear and recycle what you don’t use.