Excerpt from "The Real Cost of Cheap Fashion" by Laura Anastasia

Excerpt from “THE REAL COST OF CHEAP FASHION” by Laura Anastasia

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Ismail Ferdous

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“THE REAL COST OF CHEAP FASHION”

Buyers can hold themselves accountable for ensuring workers are adequately compensated

1. Research and Support Ethical Brands Investigate the supply chain

• Research companies to verify whether they adhere to fair labor practices. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, Ethical Trade, or B Corp that ensure workers are paid fairly.

• Support transparent brands: Buy from companies that disclose how much they pay their workers and actively promote fair wages.

2. Advocate for Fair Wages

• Ask questions: Directly ask brands about their wage practices. For example, inquire if workers are paid a living wage and how wages are determined.

• Provide feedback: Use customer surveys or social media to press for better wage standards if a brand’s practices are unclear or unsatisfactory.

3. Educate Yourself

• Understand wage standards: Learn what constitutes a fair wage or living wage in the regions where the products are made.

• Identify red flags: Recognize exploitative practices, such as extremely low prices that could indicate underpayment of workers.

4. Commit to Fair Pricing

• Pay a fair price: Avoid opting for the cheapest option if it could be the result of exploitative practices. Support businesses that price products to reflect fair wages.

• Avoid fast fashion: Limit purchases from industries or companies known for prioritizing profits over fair labor compensation.

5. Monitor and Follow Up

• Track brands: Follow up on whether brands uphold their commitments to fair wages and labor practices over time.

• Hold companies accountable: Participate in consumer-driven campaigns or boycotts when businesses fail to meet fair labor standards.

6. Collaborate and Spread Awareness

• Encourage others: Share knowledge about ethical consumption with friends, family, and social media networks.

• Support advocacy groups: Partner with organizations that focus on worker rights and wage equity to amplify their efforts.