For generations of fashion innovation and design, the industry has been predisposed to the public’s opinion that the profitable aspect of fashion (or of the industry) would be nonexistent if the industry were focused on ethics and moral value. I believe this is highly due (This is due) to the visual impact the fashion industry provides to represent itself – mainly for creative purposes. (The idea in this sentence is not clear)

Fashion is not recognized as a hub for diversity when it truly is. Many designers and wholesalers are working hard to prove that their ecological footprint is a concern at hand a chief (or an important) concern, by making active changes. The components involved in the industry relating to diversity, range from the faces representing collections (ie. Models, spokesperson, etc.), the production tactics, materials and designer influences.

Consider revising the last sentence above and not using etc. and ie. If you use the phrase “range from” you will need to use the word “to”. Suggestion: range from the models and spokespersons representing collections to the production tactics, materials and designer influences.

The fibres and materials used in the industry speak in loud volumes regarding the ethical viewpoints reflected on a designer. Consider simplifying previous sentence- it is unclear whether you are speaking of the designers viewpoints or those of the public. For example, at one time fur was considered a prestigious look among the wealthy and well to do. It -(what is “it” referring to ? I am not sure if you mean fur or the idea- suggestion: clarify by using the actual work instead of it)- hasn’t has not(no contractions) been entirely written off because in life there is consistently an exception to every rule. However, with the urgent campaigns and messages that activists established as a voice of protection for animals everywhere – the fur industry is no longer thriving. Suggestion: (As a result of the urgent campaigns and messages that activists established as a voice of protection for animals everywhere, the fur industry is no longer thriving.

With time and raised awareness, the ethical views of designers and their followers are being recognized. One prime instance is the campaign launched by the label Matt and Nat (founded by Inder Bedi) as a retaliation to a campaign launched the the Fur Council of Canada which was dubbed “FUR IS NOT GREEN”. Not only publicly voicing it (replace with something more specific

like “the message”) themselves but also encouraging their consumers to spread the word, by sporting apparel with the tag line printed with the tag line on it. Organic materials are also a growing market at the moment. Mountain Equipment Co-Op is quoted in their drive to make organic cotton a commodity as opposed to an unusual alternative “We were struck by the irony of visiting the outdoors wearing a fabric that can be damaging for the environment.” Though they are a typical promoter for such a cause, considering the their or the company’s affiliation with clothing and the outdoors combined, there is something to be said for their outlook. (Consider revising this sentence without starting it with the word ‘Though’ which is a conjunctive). Not only is it better for the environment but organic cotton is relative as a sustainable resource as well. When cotton is grown organically, the soil is maintained in better condition. This eliminates any risk of harming the animals within the vicinity, as well as humans – because chemicals and pesticides can be destructive in more ways than meet the eye. (Consider revising to not use a colloquialism) In a positive light, the designers and companies that are carrying eco-friendly products are not only doing so, but informing the public via statements and campaigns as well. (Consider revising to simplify, suggestion: In a positive light, the designers and companies that are carrying eco-friendly products are also informing the public via statements and campaigns.)

There are an endless number of up and coming designers who have established their lines and collections with a sustainable point of view from day one. The fashion industry is about consistent innovation and creation. Revolution does not apply. As in the food industry, organic and sustainable have become recognized as the better alternative in the last decade. In relation to that, fashion has the ability to have a massive impact. In the past, child labour has been a recurring issue for clothing production. An obvious exploitation of human rights and ethics was reflected on the industry. We now see corporations (who were generally the most responsible) adamantly denying their affiliation and changing their production setups. H&M is one who refuse to allow child labour, Gap Inc. (including Banana Republic, Old Navy) is another household name in the same boat. However, they were discovered to have been using child labour via a subcontractor in India in 2007. Unaware of the subcontractors exploitation, they took quick action and are now fervently involved preventing it within their corporation. With the help of communication and problem solving exemplified by large corporations renowned worldwide, the ethical impact will only expand.

In regards to the question at hand – Is it really possible for the fashion industry to be ethical, sustainable, eco-friendly and profitable at the same time? In my opinion, moderation is everything. It is not entirely possible to have products that are 100% organic or recycled at all times because it is a fact that some fibres simply cannot be. So long as eco-friendly resources are being taken proper advantage of and used in the most possible instances, the ethical high road is present. Should companies and designers be raising awareness, they are going even

further on said ethical high road. It is my belief that profitability will be present alongside quality and up to date trends. A wholesaler could be using organic cotton to manufacture the same similar t-shirts at a high price point and that will not be appealing to a consumer more than once or twice because there is no fashionable influence. Keeping in stride with trends and ensuring moral consistency, the message will be delivered to the public through customers which keeps everyone playing their part.