I've been contacted by a few people who've kindly asked when I'll be updating the blog and this prompts me to apologise for going quiet all those months ago.
The truth is that I see the huge damage being done to the environment by the clothing industry and consumers' taste for cheap clothes. As a result I feel ambivalent about promoting style and running the risk of encouraging over-consumption.
When I raise this issue with friends they point out that my focus is on promoting sustainable businesses which manufacture here in the UK, which is true of course, but I seem to be preaching to the converted here rather than making a difference. It's good to see younger people taking a greater interest in sustainability and buying vintage, but the affordability of clothes from the likes of Shein and Boohoo seem to override any concerns consumers may have about the wasteful and sometimes inhumane way these companies manufacture, transport and sell their products. Changing attitudes is hard when shopping has become a national pastime and can be a comfort blanket in stressful times.
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| A trip to Antarctia in 2018 sharpened my concerns for our environment |
I leaf through 'luxury' magazines like HTSI and see the unattractive taste for goods sold at inflated prices for their names rather than for their true quality and value. Too seldom do these publications mention British goods - which we know are made by people who are paid and treated properly (with the exception of Boohoo) and it's sad to see British magazines so often ignoring the high quality products made in the UK.
I'm not being defeatist by putting the blog on hold for the moment. I've become busier with new interests and with three delightful grandchildren aged between 18 months and five. My seventieth birthday is coming up and now is the time to make time for other things.
I also want to explore another approach to my concerns about sustainability. I took up drawing and painting 18 months ago, for the first time since my pre-teen years. The links between personal style and the arts may not be immediately obvious but both require similar skills in terms of an appreciation of shape, texture, impact and colour. I want to improve my very modest skills here and explore a way of using them to talk about the damage humankind is causing to the environment. In retirement I have time to enjoy the beauties of the world. In these busy, stressful times most of us don't have, or take, the time to see how we are rapidly losing so much of what really matters.
Many thanks to all of you who've followed this blog which I started in December 2011. I will continue to discuss sustainable style and promote British brands on Instagram. I may revive the blog here to discuss the issues I've outlined above, but that will depend on available time and inclination. I'll announce that on Instagram if I do.
I always welcome hearing from you and you can do so through Instagram or my email (on Instagram).
Best wishes and many thanks to you all,
David
