Tag: sustainability

Community · History

Top 8 Scandals in Fashion History

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Fashion has always been a glamorous and highly competitive industry, but it has not been immune to scandals. From sexual harassment allegations to cultural appropriation controversies, the world of fashion has seen its fair share of controversies over the years. In this blog post, we will look at some of the biggest scandals in fashion history.

  1. John Galliano’s Anti-Semitic Rant

In 2011, John Galliano, the then creative director of Christian Dior, was caught on camera making anti-Semitic remarks in a Paris café. The video went viral, and Galliano was subsequently fired from Dior. He was also stripped of his own eponymous label, and his reputation was irreparably damaged. Galliano later apologized for his remarks and sought treatment for alcohol addiction.

  1. Kate Moss’s Cocaine Scandal

In 2005, Kate Moss, one of the world’s most famous models, was caught on camera snorting cocaine. The pictures were published in a British newspaper, and Moss lost many of her lucrative modeling contracts as a result. However, she managed to make a comeback after entering rehab and has since become a fashion icon.

  1. Victoria’s Secret’s Lack of Diversity

Victoria’s Secret, the world’s most famous lingerie brand, has long been criticized for its lack of diversity. The brand’s annual fashion show was canceled in 2019 after years of controversy surrounding the lack of inclusivity on the runway. The company has also been accused of promoting an unrealistic and unhealthy beauty ideal, leading to criticism of the brand’s marketing practices.

  1. The Rana Plaza Factory Collapse

In 2013, the Rana Plaza factory in Bangladesh collapsed, killing over 1,100 people and injuring thousands more. The factory produced clothing for many well-known brands, including Primark and Mango. The tragedy brought attention to the issue of workers’ rights and safety in the fashion industry and led to calls for better regulation and oversight of the industry.

  1. Burberry’s Burned Stock Scandal

In 2018, Burberry, the British luxury fashion brand, came under fire when it was revealed that the company had burned over £28 million worth of unsold stock. The company claimed that the stock had been destroyed to prevent it from being sold on the black market, but the move was widely criticized as wasteful and environmentally damaging.

  1. Dolce & Gabbana’s Racism Scandal

In 2018, Dolce & Gabbana, the Italian fashion brand, faced backlash over a controversial advertising campaign. The campaign featured a Chinese model struggling to eat Italian food with chopsticks, and the brand’s co-founder, Stefano Gabbana, was accused of making racist remarks on social media. The incident led to the cancellation of a major fashion show in China and a significant drop in sales for the brand.

  1. H&M’s “Coolest Monkey in the Jungle” Ad

In 2018, H&M, the Swedish fast-fashion giant, faced criticism over an ad featuring a black child wearing a hoodie with the slogan “Coolest Monkey in the Jungle.” The ad was widely seen as racist and insensitive, and the company was accused of perpetuating negative stereotypes. The incident led to protests and calls for boycotts of the brand.

  1. Calvin Klein’s Underage Models

In 1995, Calvin Klein faced criticism over an advertising campaign featuring young models in provocative poses. Some of the models were under the age of 18, leading to accusations of sexual exploitation. The controversy led to a wider debate about the sexualization of young girls in the fashion industry and prompted calls for better protection for underage models.

The fashion industry has been riddled with sketchy behavior and scandals. I can honestly say that these examples are only the tip of the iceberg. Stay tuned for more as we dive deeper and deeper into history ❤

-Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment

Community · History

Fashion Trends and Influence: 1980s

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The 1980s was a decade of bold and dynamic fashion, characterized by a distinct aesthetic that is instantly recognizable even today. From the rise of punk and new wave to the emergence of MTV and music videos, the 1980s was a time of cultural and social change that was reflected in its fashion trends. In this blog post, we will explore the key fashion trends of the 1980s and what influenced them.

One of the most iconic fashion trends of the 1980s was power dressing, which emerged as a result of the growing number of women entering the workforce in positions of power. Power dressing was characterized by structured, tailored silhouettes, shoulder pads, and bold colors, often featuring strong and assertive accents such as oversized bows, statement jewelry, and bold prints. This trend was heavily influenced by the feminist movement, as women sought to assert their presence and authority in a male-dominated workplace.

Another significant trend of the 1980s was the rise of punk and new wave fashion. Inspired by the music scene, this trend was characterized by leather jackets, studded belts, ripped jeans, and chunky boots. This anti-establishment aesthetic was a reaction to the mainstream fashion of the time and was heavily influenced by the punk rock movement of the 1970s. Bands such as The Sex Pistols and The Clash were major influences on punk fashion, which became a symbol of rebellion and non-conformity.

The 1980s also saw the emergence of hip hop fashion, which was characterized by bold, oversized clothing, including baggy pants, graphic t-shirts, and tracksuits. This trend was heavily influenced by the hip hop music scene, which originated in the Bronx in the 1970s. Hip hop fashion was a reflection of the culture of the streets, and it was often associated with the emerging hip hop subculture, which was defined by its emphasis on self-expression and individuality.

In addition to these trends, the 1980s was also characterized by a range of other fashion styles, including preppy fashion, which was characterized by clean lines, tailored clothing, and bright colors. This trend was influenced by the popularity of Ivy League fashion and was often associated with the upper classes. Another trend was the emergence of the “yuppie” culture, which was characterized by designer labels, power suits, and a focus on materialism and consumerism. This trend was heavily influenced by the economic prosperity of the decade and the rise of the business class.

So what influenced these trends? One of the key influences on 1980s fashion was the emergence of MTV and music videos. Music videos became an important medium for fashion designers and stylists to showcase their designs, and they helped to popularize many of the key trends of the decade. Bands such as Duran Duran, Madonna, and Michael Jackson were major influences on fashion, and their music videos became iconic examples of 1980s style.

Another key influence on 1980s fashion was the growing influence of celebrity culture. The rise of tabloid journalism and the emergence of paparazzi photography helped to make celebrities more accessible and influential than ever before. Celebrities such as Princess Diana, Madonna, and Michael Jackson became style icons, and their fashion choices helped to shape the trends of the decade.

Finally, the social and cultural changes of the 1980s played a significant role in shaping fashion trends. The rise of feminism, the emergence of the hip hop subculture, and the growing influence of youth culture all had a profound impact on fashion. The 1980s was a decade of change and experimentation, and fashion was no exception.

What fashion trends from the 1980s stick out the most in your mind? Are we going to see another resurgence of 80s styles sometime in the near future? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!

-Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment

Community · Thrifting

100 Years Of Recycling Clothing

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In the past century, the world has undergone tremendous changes, and one of the most notable transformations has been in the area of clothing recycling. Recycling clothes, which once was considered an unimportant and irrelevant matter, has now become a significant issue due to the increasing awareness of the importance of sustainability and environmental protection.

In the early 1900s, clothing recycling was not a widely practiced activity. The average person purchased clothes that were built to last, and any old clothes were either passed down to younger family members or repurposed into rags or cleaning materials. However, the invention of synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon in the 1930s and 1940s made clothes cheaper to produce, and their easy disposability led to an increase in waste.

The 1960s saw the beginning of the modern environmental movement, and with it, increased awareness of the need to reduce waste and preserve resources. This led to a resurgence in the idea of recycling, and organizations like Goodwill and the Salvation Army began to expand their clothing donation programs. In the 1970s, the first “recycling” stores were opened in the United States, where people could donate their old clothing and purchase second-hand clothes.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the textile recycling industry began to grow, and the first textile recycling machines were developed. These machines could sort through large quantities of used clothing, separating them into different categories based on material and quality. The clothes were then shredded, and the fibers were used to create new textiles, insulation, and even carpets.

In the early 2000s, the rise of online marketplaces such as eBay and Craigslist made it easier for people to sell their old clothing online, rather than throwing them away. The emergence of social media platforms like Instagram also played a role in promoting sustainable fashion, with influencers sharing tips on how to repurpose old clothes and encouraging people to buy second-hand clothing.

Today, clothing recycling has become a global industry. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the fashion industry produces over 92 million tons of waste every year, with less than 1% of it being recycled. However, there are now many initiatives and organizations working to improve this. Major clothing retailers such as H&M, Zara, and Levi’s have launched recycling programs where customers can bring in their old clothes and receive a discount on new purchases. Many cities and towns also have textile recycling programs, where people can bring their used clothing to be sorted and recycled.

In addition to recycling, there has also been a significant rise in upcycling, where old clothes are repurposed into new and fashionable items. Upcycling can range from simply adding embellishments or patches to a piece of clothing to completely transforming it into something entirely new. This has become a popular trend among DIY enthusiasts and sustainable fashion advocates, with many small businesses and independent designers specializing in upcycled clothing.

We, here at Diversity Consignment, pride ourselves in offering a unique textile recycling experience. One in which clothing passes directly from a consignors closet to a new and happy home. I believe that consignment has the potential to be the most sustainable way of recycling within the textile industry, applying a zero sum waste approach.

We also offer a platform for up cycling artists and creators to showcase some of their creations while making a profit. Come by and check out some of the unique things we have for sale!

-Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment

Community · Thrifting

What are the Benefits of Thrifting?

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Thrifting, the practice of purchasing second-hand items, has become increasingly popular in recent years. It’s not just about saving money, though. There are many benefits to thrifting that go beyond just the financial. Here are some reasons why you should consider thrifting for your next shopping spree.

1. Sustainability

The fashion industry is notorious for its impact on the environment. From the use of water and chemicals to the carbon emissions of transportation, the production of new clothes is a significant contributor to pollution. Additionally, when clothes are discarded, they often end up in landfills, where they can take years to decompose.

Thrifting is a sustainable option because it extends the life of clothing that would otherwise be thrown away. By purchasing second-hand items, you’re reducing the demand for new clothes and helping to keep usable items out of landfills. Thrifting is an eco-friendly choice that helps to reduce your carbon footprint.

2. Uniqueness

When you shop at mainstream retailers, you’re likely to find the same items as everyone else. Thrifting, on the other hand, offers a unique shopping experience. Each thrift store has its own selection of items, and you never know what you’ll find. You may discover vintage pieces that are no longer available in stores or one-of-a-kind items that you won’t see anyone else wearing. Thrifting allows you to express your individuality and stand out from the crowd.

3. Affordability

One of the most obvious benefits of thrifting is the cost savings. Second-hand items are typically much cheaper than new ones, allowing you to stretch your budget further. You can find high-quality items for a fraction of their original price, which means you can get more for your money. Thrifting is an excellent way to find bargains and get the most out of your shopping budget.

4. Higher Quality

Many items you find while thrifting are of higher quality than what you might find in mainstream retailers. This is because they were likely made to last, rather than being produced quickly and cheaply. You can find items made from higher quality materials, such as wool or silk, that are more durable and will last longer than their cheaper counterparts. Thrifting allows you to get high-quality items for a fraction of the price.

5. Supporting Local Communities

When you shop at thrift stores, you’re supporting local businesses and communities. Many thrift stores are run by non-profit organizations or small business owners. By shopping at these stores, you’re helping to support local economies and contribute to the growth of small businesses. Additionally, some thrift stores donate a portion of their profits to local charities, so your purchase can make a positive impact beyond just your wardrobe.

6. Nostalgia

Thrifting can be a nostalgic experience. You may come across items that remind you of your childhood or a certain time period. This can be a fun way to reminisce and relive memories. Additionally, you may discover items that have a unique history, such as vintage band tees or concert posters. Thrifting allows you to connect with the past and add a touch of nostalgia to your wardrobe.

7. Experimentation

Thrifting is an excellent way to experiment with different styles and trends. Because the items are affordable, you can try out new looks without investing a lot of money. You can also mix and match items from different eras and styles to create a unique look. Thrifting allows you to be creative with your wardrobe and try out new styles without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, thrifting has many benefits beyond just the financial savings. It’s a sustainable option that helps to reduce your carbon footprint. It allows you to express your individuality and find unique items that you won’t see anyone else wearing. Thrifting is an affordable way to get high-quality items that are made to last

-Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment

Why You Should Give Used Gifts
Business · Community · Thrifting

Why You Should Give Used Gifts

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Now, obviously, certain used gifts are not for everyone. Giving a pair of worn-out shoes that your toe sticks out of the front to your new fiancé would probably not be the best idea. Some things can be more of a liability than an act of kindness. Another example could be gifting a car that is missing an engine, unless it’s something super-rare and you can work on it yourself and you enjoy that type of thing.

Many people will scoff at the idea of receiving a used gift as a present, and that is fine if you feel like you’re “above” second-hand gifts. I’m not here to convince you that you’re not bougey, I’m just here to explain some of the benefits of gifting and receiving used items.

Some of the topics I will cover in this article are the benefits to gift used items, some of the trends we have been seeing, and where the future of gift-giving may be trending.

The Benefits of Gifting Used or Second-Hand.

The stigma of the embarrassment in gifting used or second-hand gifts can finally end. There are so many benefits to gifting used gifts!

  • You can save money: The holidays are often-times traps by corporate America to force us to buy, buy, buy. No doubt we can give gifts if we have the resources to do so, but why does it all have to be so new and expensive? It doesn’t when you shop second hand! Imagine paying anywhere between 50% to 90% off! That’s more money to use for the things you love, and the recipient will appreciate the fact that you thought of them (If they truly care about you).
  • You can get awesome, unique stuff: This holds true for every category. What they serve you in the retail stores is just what they think you’re interested in today. Imagine opening up a world where the interests of today can be expanded to the interests of all-time. Let me explain. In other words, you can find treasures that were beloved from all eras. Imagine finding a super-cool board game only produced for a few years 30 years ago! If your partner loves board games, that could be an awesome, unique gift for them.
  • Many times, you are supporting a small business or benefitting charities: Most of the second-hand industry is run by local re-sellers or charity organizations. Imagine the impact you can make on the many people that you shop from by choosing to buy used. In this day and age where everything is turning into a giant corporate-driven mess, you can pledge your allegiance to what you believe in by supporting local, sustainable shops.
  • It’s wicked sustainable: As if you didn’t need any more quality reasons to gift second-hand gifts. By gifting used cars, you’re keeping them out of car graveyards, and by gifting used clothing you are keeping them out of landfills. Keeping things in economic motion can have a huge impact on the planet we all share!

The Stigma

No one is quite sure where the negative stigma associated with gifting used items came from but it’s time to end it. If you spent the time researching and finding a second-hand gift for someone, they should appreciate it or else you should dump them as a friend. They’re not really worth your time or effort.

In no way, shape, or form should you be embarrassed about giving or receiving a second-hand treasure. Like I said, there is a lot more effort and thought behind the gift and is often times more personalized.

A lot of the time while thrifting you’ll see something very unique, and that person that it’s perfect for just pops into your head! What’s more thoughtful than that!? The answer is nothing.

Here at Diversity Consignment, we see and hear this happening all the time. “OMG so and so would love that!” “I’m buying it just for them!” There’s nothing more beautiful to hear.

Giving a gift card to a second-hand store can also be a sneaky way of giving something new and used at the same time. Try it out.

The Future of Gift-Giving

As time goes by, more and more people are shopping more sustainably. This is true especially for personal shopping, but also moving in the same direction for gift-giving during the holiday seasons.

More emphasis on sustainability and more awareness on the benefits of shopping used items means a better world for us all to enjoy. I say the future holds a reversal on the stigma. Let’s gooooo!

-Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment

Business · Community · Thrifting

What Does Consignment Mean?

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Consignment shops have been around for a while now but it still remains a sort of underground concept. I frequently come across people, talking a little about what I do for work, and come to find out they have never heard of a consignment shop!

I think that due to the rise in popularity of second-hand shopping, the term “consignment” is being thrown around a little more than it had in the past. People are starting to talk about the concept but may not fully understand it. The differentiation of a consignment store with a charity thrift store can be a little gray and I’m here to shed a little light on the subject.

Within this article, I will be providing you with the difference between a consignment shop and a charity thrift store. I will also go over the pros and cons of working with or shopping at a consignment shop and the different varieties of consignment stores.

Consignment Shop vs. Charity Thrift Store

Here’s where the confusion tends to lie. Many people like to blend the term consignment with the term thrift and in a lot of ways; a consignment shop is a type of thrift store.

My definition of a thrift store is any place where you can buy second hand goods at a discounted price. Within this threshold, consignment shops do fit under the blanket of thrift stores.

The major difference is comparing consignment shops to charity based thrift stores. Consignment shops are typically for-profit stores that return a percentage of sales to the consignor (person who drops-off inventory). Charity thrift stores are non-profit and proceeds directly benefit a dedicated cause. I say typically because there are definitely consignment shops that are partial charity stores or may donate a certain percentage of sales to any given charity.

At Diversity Consignment we frequently have incentives that directly benefit certain charities. For instance, in the month of June (pride month) we dedicated the proceeds of our “Buy The Pound” area to go towards Boston Glass, a local leader in social justice and community based services for progressing diversity and inclusion.

What to Expect at a Consignment Shop

Consignment shops are beautiful places that vary in shapes, colors, and offerings. They can range from higher-end priced items to bargain basement prices. I am going to keep this section more generalized and talk about what you can typically expect to see at a consignment shop.

Unlike a charity thrift store that takes in donations, consignment shops will have a more curated selection of items. They take in what are called “consignments.” Consignments are items that have been hand selected by the team working at the store. They generally will be more specific to the audience they are trying to reach; the customer base.

You can expect to find a larger selection of quality items that are free of holes, stains, snags, or even odors. This is a general rule of thumb but again, depending on the consignment shop, this can vary. I am also primarily referring to clothing consignment shops. You can also expect to see a lot of inventory that is brand new! Some consignment shops even take the boutique approach and source their own brand new inventory.

Different Types of Consignment Shops

The best thing about consignment shops are that there are so many different types! It is also pretty easy to find one within your local community or general area.

Here’s a list of some of the types of consignment shops I know about, personally, within the Boston area.

-Boutique Style- Covet Boston

-Sporting Goods- Family Sports Consignments

-Furniture Consignment- Second 2 None Furniture

-High End Designer- Castanet Consignment

-Unique Styles / Vintage- Raspberry Beret

-Men’s Clothing- ID Drakes Consignment

-Music Consignment, Vintage, Local Art, Men’s, Women’s, Non-Binary Clothing, Records- Diversity Consignment 😉

As you can see, there are a whole lot of different types of consignment shops, all with the same premise in mind; slightly used or new goods where the consignor gets a percentage of what the items they bring in sell for. There are also consignment shops for things like tools and power equipment. A quick google search will provide you with all the information you need!

The Pro’s and Con’s of Consignment Shops

The pro’s and con’s can vary greatly depending on the specific store you’re interested in. At times, prices can fluctuate greatly for one reason or another. Location and quality of the inventory can be a couple of the factors.

If you’re looking for a specific item or one with many size variations; consignment shops may not be the ideal place for you. They usually only have one of each item on the racks or shelves and there’s not much hope that they will get another one anytime soon.

Some of the pro’s can also be some of the con’s. The fact that everything is 1 of 1 and unique can also be a great thing! Don’t worry about someone else showing up to the wedding wearing the same dress you purchased from a consignment shop! Also, I can guarantee that you saved the most money with your frugal purchases.

Consignment shops can also be a great way of getting a little money back into your wallet! When you bring things in and they sell, you get a percentage of what they sell for! Percentages can vary from consignment shop to consignment shop as well as consignment periods (the allotted time for your items to sell). Don’t expect to make a living buying and selling at consignment shops, it’s a great and sustainable means for recycling clothing and household items, but not a huge money-making venture.

That being said, another great aspect of consignment shops is the direct link to sustainability. I go over this frequently in other articles. Consignment shops aren’t going to save the planet by any stretch, but they are certainly helping things move in the right direction. Keep clothing and household items out of landfills and take them to your local consignment shop!

Conclusion

Consignment shops are great. You can find a wide variety of different types and styles that have all kinds of unique treasures to find.

Expect to pay a bit more, but have a more curated selection than the local charity thrift shops. Most of these businesses are family operated so do your best to support them. They help out the community in many ways; one of which being providing the people a place to sell their used things.

Staying sustainable is something we all need to do a better job at.

-Much Love, Ian Drake – Diversity Consignment