Fashioning Sustainability: Noorin Khamisani’s Vision for Ethical Style
Unraveling the Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion
Visitors to the vibrant Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) recently embarked on an enlightening journey into the world of ethical fashion with designer and environmental advocate Noorin Khamisani. In a candid conversation with radio presenter Louis Denham, Khamisani delved deep into the far-reaching effects of the fast fashion industry on the environment and the ethical dilemmas it presents. Let’s explore her compelling insights, innovative solutions, and some alarming facts about the fashion industry.
Polyester Predicament: The Plastic Paradox
Khamisani, the Programme Leader in Postgraduate Fashion at Istituto Marangoni London, emphasized a critical issue in the fast fashion world: polyester, a material predominantly used in its creation. “Polyester is essentially plastic,” she warned, underlining the concerning fact that once discarded in landfills, it may never biodegrade. This revelation calls for an urgent need to reduce our dependence on synthetic fabrics and find sustainable alternatives.
Fashion’s Environmental Impact: Startling Statistics
The fashion industry is known for its colossal carbon footprint, with statistics revealing that it is responsible for about 10% of global carbon emissions—more than international flights and maritime shipping combined. Additionally, the industry is one of the largest water consumers, using approximately 79 billion cubic meters of water annually.
Fashion as a Verb: Navigating the Need vs. Want Conundrum
The fashion industry encourages us to constantly crave new styles, but Khamisani advocates for a shift in perspective. She challenges us to be more conscious about our clothing choices, suggesting that we distinguish between “need” and “want.” Khamisani advises a closet examination, often revealing that many garments go unworn. Fashion, she proposes, should be an action, an experience, rather than mere consumption.
Share and Swap: A Path to Meaningful Fashion
Khamisani’s message is clear: sharing and swapping clothes with friends can breathe new life into your wardrobe. Those items that no longer serve you might spark joy in someone else, creating an emotional connection between friends and fashion. This approach transforms fashion into a meaningful, communal experience.
Digital Garments: Redefining Fashion in the Digital Age
In a world where social media and digital presence are paramount, Khamisani acknowledges the rise of “digital garments” for those who seek fresh looks for their online profiles. She questions the necessity of physically owning every piece in this context, provoking thought on how we perceive and interact with fashion.
A Pioneer in Ethical Fashion
Noorin Khamisani’s advocacy for ethical fashion dates back to the early 2000s when she was at the forefront of the movement in Europe. Her independent fashion brand, Outsider, which she established in London in 2009, reflects her commitment to sustainability. Today, she continues to showcase and sell her work globally while sharing her expertise in fashion design.
In a world driven by fashion trends and instant gratification, Noorin Khamisani’s vision reminds us to be more considerate of our choices. She encourages us to reshape our relationship with fashion, embracing sustainability, and the thrill of sharing with friends. As the fashion industry evolves, her insights pave the way for a brighter, more ethical future in style, addressing both environmental concerns and our evolving digital landscape.
