Wearwell's Co-Founder, Emily Kenney, chats with Emily Waddell of The Honest Consumer, to talk about her love for sustainable fashion and her mission to inspire and help others to live more sustainable lives.
Emily Kenney: Hi, Emily! Can you tell me a little bit about yourself and how you became interested in ethical + sustainable fashion!
Emily Waddell: I'm the founder of The Honest Consumer, a sustainable lifestyle blog. I currently live in Seattle with my husband, dog, and cat! I became interested in ethical and sustainable fashion as a college student back in 2015. I was studying social entrepreneurship and learning how business can be a force for good. This was also the year I watched The True Cost. After seeing that documentary and learning about how socially responsible businesses can have a positive impact, I knew I wanted to be part of the ethical and sustainable fashion movement advocating for change. I was inspired by the idea of slow fashion brands using their businesses to make a statement and reframe what fashion looks like.
Emily K.: I really relate to that journey! The True Cost had a big impact on me and really opened my eyes as well. If you could give fashion brands a piece of your mind about sustainability, what would you say?
Emily W.: I would love for fashion brands to start focusing on quality instead of quantity. I'd advise them to produce less and focus on creating timeless, high-quality pieces that are crafted to last. This is more sustainable than mass production.
Emily K.: I second that! With everything you’ve learned over the years, what’s your favorite sustainable fashion hack?
Emily W.: Go to (or host) a clothing swap! I think this is a great way to sustainably clean out your own closet and find some new pieces. When I've gone to clothing swaps I've been able to find unique garments that I never would have bought on my own, but because they are there and free I was inspired to try them on. It's also a great way to meet others who are passionate about sustainable living.
Emily K.: In three words, how do you describe your personal style aesthetic?
Emily W.: Casual, cozy, & cute!
Emily K.: Love that. So, what’s your go-to outfit for a sustainable fashion statement?
Emily W.: Currently, I have a deep green dress with blue birds on it that I got at a clothing swap. I love how the bold colors and the pattern make a statement.
Emily K.: What do you think is the most important thing people can do to make their fashion choices more sustainable?
Emily W.: Cherish and love the clothes that are already in your closet. Wearing what you have is one of the most sustainable things you can do! Get creative and find new ways to style pieces, learn how to mend, and keep falling in love with what you already have. If you do choose to purchase new clothes be sure to choose pieces that you are passionate about and will be able to wear for years to come.
Emily K.: That is such great advice! What’s next for The Honest Consumer – any goals for the future or new things that you’re looking forward to?
Emily W.: I'm looking forward to exploring sustainability beyond fashion. On the blog we've recently started adding resources on sustainable food, travel, and looking at other industries.
Emily K.: Anything else you want to share with wearwell’s community?
Emily W.: Something I like to reiterate within The Honest Consumer community is that sustainability looks different for everyone and that is okay! We're all doing the best we can with the resources and knowledge we have. There isn't one right way to live sustainably.
Inspired and ready to shop with brands that align with your personal mission? Shop by your values at wearwell.
