Eco Fashion World

 People Tree

There is no single, universally adopted definition for fair trade, however, an informal network of four fair trade labeling organizations (Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International, World Fair Trade Organization, Network of European Worldshops and European Fair Trade Association), also referred to as FINE, has established the following definition:

“Fair Trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers - especially in the South. Fair Trade organizations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness-raising, and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade.”

  Topshop

Fair trade has existed since the 1940s and 1950s with the initial efforts of an NGO called Ten Thousand Villages first establishing fair trade supply chains within developing countries.  For those who are not familiar with the term NGO, it is a non-governmental organization that is not a typical for-profit business and usually has a broad social aim with some political aspects.  The goods sold mostly at fairs through the early Ten Thousand Villages projects were typically simple handicrafts. Since first introduction in the 40s and 50s, fair trade has evolved and expanded its influence in many ways:  

• The belief that trade is better than aid has been further solidified as a primary purpose.  Helping lesser developed areas progress and sustain themselves by allowing them an opportunity to provide product and trade their product in the international marketplace, rather than to solely offer them aid, is more widely understood and accepted as a long term solution.

• Transparency in supply chains has become something of more value as consumers become more and more knowledgeable with regard to the power of their purchases in bettering manufacturing practices and correcting supply chain ills.

• Fair trade certification-bodies have been established to set guidelines, consult, and monitor fair trade agreement terms.

• For artisans, farmers and other workers employed under a fair-trade label, this can signify long-term contracts, fair living wages, safe working conditions, and benefits.  

Fair trade in the fashion industry began within small cooperatives developing textiles and crafts, and has now grown to a much larger scale including the farming and manufacture of fair trade cotton.  Well known fashion companies like People Tree, Topshop, Gaiam, Indigenous Designs, Leila Hafzi, and Untouched World hold fair trade at the core of their business model, offering a large variety of must-have, high quality apparel and accessories, while maintaining strong support for ethical standards in manufacture.   

Overall, the eco fashion movement has brought accountability to the forefront and fair trade is a fundamental component.  In order to continue efforts toward world improvement through fashion, fair trade principles must remain at the center, tenaciously dealing with biases and discrimination, ensuring equality and facilitating efforts toward a more sustainable future.

Stay tuned for Part III of the Eco-Criteria Series, a closer look at organic fibres, materials, methods in the manufacturing process, and certification processes involved.  For a full outline of what is to come within the Eco Criteria series, read our 'Intro To Eco Criteria' article.

You can check out the EFW Glossary for basic definitions including fair trade and you can search the EFW guide by eco-criteria, including brands that are fair trade certified and ethically produced.  

EFW US based writer Magaly Fuentes-Sagan has a broad range of interests spanning art, fashion, travel, environmental issues, health and wellness. With an AS in Fashion Design and a BA in International Business and Marketing as well as a comprehensive fashion career that has included couture bridal design, sportswear product development, visual merchandising, buying and marketing management, Magaly brings the scope of her experience and passions to her written work.

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