How a Global Movement is Changing the Fashion Industry

When shopping for new items of clothing, do you ever ask yourself, “Who made my clothes?” Or when sewing a new garment, do you ever ask yourself, “Who made my fabric?” On April 24, 2013, the leaders behind Fashion Revolution were compelled to ask themselves these questions after 1138 people were killed and many more injured in the tragic Rana Plaza factory collapse. They grew a global movement focused on fashion industry transparency that asked important questions, ones which can often get overlooked. On the 6th anniversary of the Rana Plaza factory collapse, we spoke to Fashion Revolution about how you can be more action oriented and solution focused to make a positive impact on the fashion industry.

(Note: While this interview is from 2019, some photos and links have been updated for 2024.) 

Making a Positive Impact with Fashion Revolution

Fashion Revolution: Fashion Revolution is a global movement calling for greater transparency, sustainability and ethics in the fashion industry. We want to unite the fashion industry and ignite a revolution to radically change the way our clothes are sourced, produced and purchased, so that what the world wears has been made in a safe, clean and fair way.

FR: Fashion Revolution has galvanized makers and doers to become more actively engaged in the way clothing is made. People now ask #WhoMadeMyClothes in stronger numbers than ever before, highlighting the need for more transparency and ethical practices within the industry that is so wide reaching in its effects. Opening up this call to action has ignited real change with brands, companies and more, proving that these issues are of critical importance to consumers.

FR: The power is with the people. The more individuals who become involved and ask #WhoMadeMyClothes really shows the pressure on brands and companies to be more transparent about their supply chains, manufacturing, treatment of workers, environmental impact and more. These have real effects—brands are changing. Our Fashion Transparency Index, published each year during Fashion Revolution Week, ranks top global brands on their transparency measures. We look forward to its release this year to see the positive steps that brands are implementing.

FR: There are so many ways to get involved! With online resources like our downloadable posters and graphics, templates for postcards to write to policymakers and more, our website, fashionrevolution.org, is a wealth of information. For Fashion Revolution Week specifically there are so many events going on across the globe—and so many opportunities to host one, too! Check out our Fashion Revolution USA page for more information on how to get involved here in United States. (For additional information on our work in other countries, see the Find Your Country page.)

FR: The best advice once shared with me is, “You don’t have to do it alone!” This is a strong and growing movement with so many different resources at your fingertips including how-to guides, step-by-step tips and tricks and more from a wide array of individuals.

FR: Be more curious and never be afraid to ask questions. Don’t be afraid to make small changes—like wearing clothes longer, purchasing clothing packaged in little to no plastic and more—they all add up to lasting change!

Meet Some of the Faces Behind Your Spoonflower Fabric Order