We dive into the HIGHLY problematic world of the denim industry, with special guest and mega denim expert Michelle.
“Am I profiting off of someone else’s misery?” Michelle said this during our conversation and it has stuck with us since we recorded this weeks ago.
Denim is the All-American fabric and jeans are the quintessential uniform of Americana, yet the denim industry is one of the most environmentally devastating parts of the overall fashion industry. We will dig into the processes and treatments our jeans undergo before they get to us . It’s so fascinating and sure to make you think a little bit more about your denim buying habits! Also, WTF is “coated denim?”
This episode also includes a special report about a recently published batch of studies from Princeton University about a pervasive and destructive societal bias about people living in poverty: the fundamentally untrue belief that poor people are happier with less and somehow “thick-skinned” about hardship and suffering. It wouldn’t be an episode of Clotheshorse without a conversation about classism!
Also! We are debuting a new “Ask Amanda” advice segment in our next episode. Send in your greatest shopping and clothing quandaries! Or simply questions you have about the industry. We want to help you make the best decisions! Send your questions to [email protected].
If you want to share your opinion/additional thoughts on the subjects we cover in each episode, feel free to email, whether it’s a typed out message or an audio recording: [email protected]
Deco Denim is a startup based out of San Francisco, selling clothing and accessories that are sustainable, gender fluid, size inclusive and high quality–made to last for years to come. Deco Denim is trying to change the way you think about buying clothes. Founder Sarah Mattes wants to empower people to ask important questions like, “Where was this made? Was this garment made ethically? Is this fabric made of plastic? Can this garment be upcycled and if not, can it be recycled?” Signup at decodenim.com to receive $20 off your first purchase. They promise not to spam you and send out no more than 3 emails a month, with 2 of them surrounding education or a personal note from the Founder. Find them on Instagram as @deco.denim.
Selina Sanders, a social impact brand that specializes in up-cycled clothing, using only reclaimed, vintage or thrifted materials: from tea towels, linens, blankets and quilts. Sustainably crafted in Los Angeles, each piece is designed to last in one’s closet for generations to come. Maximum Style; Minimal Carbon Footprint.
Republica Unicornia Yarns: Hand-Dyed Yarn and notions for the color-obsessed. Made with love and some swearing in fabulous Atlanta, Georgia by Head Yarn Wench Kathleen. Get ready for rainbows with a side of Giving A Damn! Republica Unicornia is all about making your own magic using small-batch, responsibly sourced, hand-dyed yarns and thoughtfully made notions. Slow fashion all the way down and discover the joy of creating your very own beautiful hand knit, crocheted, or woven pieces. Find us on Instagram @republica_unicornia_yarns and at www.republicaunicornia.com.
Cute Little Ruin is an online shop dedicated to providing quality vintage and secondhand clothing, vinyl, and home items in a wide range of styles and price points. If it’s ethical and legal, we try to find a new home for it! Vintage style with progressive values. Find us on Instagram at @CuteLittleRuin.
