Inspiration: The True Cost

As someone who shops almost exclusively at fast fashion stores like H&M, Gap and Zara, the documentary The True Cost has really affected me since watching it. We all know by now the horror stories of garment manufacturing. Who can forget the collapse of the factory in Bangladesh in 2013? I will admit, however, that there is a certain detachment to all of it, living in North America where bargains are always foremost in the mind of many consumers like me.:(

That's why films like The True Cost need to be seen. (You can now watch this on Netflix.)

It's hard to see this without feeling guilty....

And in conjunction with this film, I also highly recommend the book Overdressed by E. Cline.
A very worthwhile read that deals with the same issues that True Cost does.

Does this mean I will never shop again? To be honest, this post is self-serving. I figured that by sharing this on my blog, I will be held accountable and finally stick to my resolution of buying less  and taking care of the things I already have.

On that note, I will leave you with a quote from the book:
"Clothing companies have enjoyed decades of cheap foreign labour and the resulting profits, but what exactly are the tangible benefits to us, the American consumer? We own more clothes than we can wear, the quality and craftsmanship of our wardrobes are at an all-time low, and the US manufacturing base can't compete on the wages with the developing world, costing countless domestic jobs...."

Have you seen this documentary, or read the book?

Comments

Valerie said…
Oh my gosh, I haven't seen the documentary or read the book! It looks like I really need to...thank you so much for sharing!

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Jane said…
I'll have to see the documentary. I have heard of things like this but never really looked further into it. It's sad how so many aspects of our lives is at the expense of someone else's. It's truly sad..
I haven't seen this yet and I'm not sure I want to purely because it'll break my heart (and I cry too easily these days). I've been well aware of this for many years now, it hasn't been a guarded secret or anything and the fact that it still goes on today is saddening. There is really little much we can do, it takes strength in numbers but sadly the majority of the world would rather bury their heads in sand and keep over consuming goods. It's easier that way after all isn't it. :o(

Sxx
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Linda said…
Very heartwrenching, Emmy. I just saw the image on the video but haven't looked at it because I cry profusely when I see anyone hurt, and even animals.
Elle Sees said…
this sounds heart-breaking and something that definitely needs more attention drawn to it. you have done that, emmy!
What happened in Bangladesh was really tragic and it's true that it can be easy to overlook where our clothes are made but at the same time it's just as easy to be more mindful especially when there are more ethical fashion brands around these days.

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Unknown said…
Great article!
Have a nice evening!
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Adam said…
The sad thing is that most clothes could be made in the usa or canada and be at a fair price. I'd rather get something that was made in a 1st world country
I haven't seen the documentary, and just checked, it's up on Netflix here too, and added it to my to see list. Thanks for raising awareness. I try to buy conciously, but I am a bit ashamed to admit that most of the time, the price is one of the most important thing in the decision making process. There are some shops though, that I refuse to buy things from.
I know, since I've started blogging I've bought less clothes. This is sad! No one should have to go through this. I need to sit down and watch the entire thing. Thanks for sharing this Emmy.
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