But it’s just as important to consider how and who made our clothes. The “handprint” of fashion is made of real people in supply chains all over the world who are often working in terrible conditions and paid a minimum wage which is equal to the poverty line.
The images of the Rana Plaza factory collapse in Bangladesh in 2013 still haunt us to this day – and things are not getting much better.
The jewellery industry is another one which has faced lots of challenges and debate with few standards making it fundamental to work with trusted suppliers. This is part of the Journey to Sustainable Luxury - Chopard's business strategy to address some of these thorny issues. We worked together on gold (which now comes from ethical sources, including Fairmined certified gold), diamonds and some coloured gemstones. True luxury is knowing the hands of the people who mined, sourced, polished these materials as much as the artisans who create the stunning pieces of jewellery.
Our goal should be to connect with the story of who made our clothes or our jewellery. We all need to be active citizens. For there to be a future for sustainable fashion, we need to think more about the choices we are making and who those choices are affecting.
The variables are endless, but one thing is for certain: while fashion is on the frontline of globalisation, it has created a system which has terrible consequences on people and planet. Today we have a beautiful opportunity to make it right and “re-dress the world” in a way that is all about nurture, respect and traditions.
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