The eighth Ethical Fashion Show and accompanying trade fair attracted some 100 exhibitors to Paris in September 2011
The eighth Ethical Fashion Show and accompanying trade fair attracted some 100 exhibitors to Paris in September 2011, all dedicated to creating a fashion industry that does not pollute the environment and treats people fairly.
With banners proclaiming ‘Ethical Fashion Show, Made With Love’, a sense of camaraderie, excitement and common purpose pervaded the exhibition halls of the Carrousel du Louvre, in the heart of the French capital.
“One day there will be no need for an ethical fashion show because all fashion will be ethical; there will be no distinction,” said Isabelle Quehe, artistic director and founder of The Ethical Fashion Show, who started the event because she understood that people manufacturing clothing often suffered terrible working conditions. She believed “another fashion is possible” and for years took no salary for her work.
“For me the most important things are that people are respected in their work and that we give work to people to protect all the knowledge and skills that are fast disappearing,” said Isabelle. “For years, everyone thought I was a hippy but now people understand much more about what is ethical and ecological. The big fashion companies are beginning to understand what is happening and they are trying to be more green.”
The next Ethical Fashion Show will take place from 2-4 March 2012 at the Espace Pierre Cardin in Paris.