This article was written by Adèle Lajeunesse.
Every year, Melow uses the Fashion Revolution movement as an opportunity to highlight its values. To mark the occasion, we’d like to tell you where our clothes come from, because wearing Melow also means taking a stand for a more ethical fashion industry.
What is the Fashion Revolution movement ?
On April 24, 2013, an accident claimed the lives of more than 1,000 workers at a textile factory in Bangladesh. The Rana Plaza, an eight-story building, collapsed to the ground while clothing was being manufactured there for several well-known brands sold around the world. This tragedy was the result of extreme negligence toward the workers on that production line.
Today, 13 years have passed since the tragedy. Some progress has been made since then, but conditions in many textile factories remain critical. April 24 is now a day of remembrance for the workers who lost their lives under horrific circumstances. From this emerged the Fashion Revolution movement. It aims to raise consumer awareness about where their clothes come from, because getting dressed should never cost someone else their life.
Why choose sustainable fashion ?
Dressing better isn’t just about adopting a style or following a trend. It’s more about learning how and from what our clothes are made. Wearing a brand means wearing its values. Learning about what we wear also means caring about the people and resources behind it.
The fast fashion industry too often tries to hide what goes on behind the scenes and focuses solely on the final product. A lack of transparency on the part of certain companies is often a sign of ethical failings. Unfortunately, it is still common in the textile industry to see meager wages, abuse of power, and unsafe working conditions.
The emergence of slow fashion, also known as responsible fashion, aims to counter fast fashion. The goal is to slow down by reducing the amount of resources used and by valuing those who work behind the scenes. Buying locally is an excellent way to embrace responsible fashion. When you wear a garment made in Canada, you’re supporting an entire team. Supporting local fashion allows a dedicated industry to continue promoting its values.
At Melow, we’re proud to give you a behind-the-scenes look. Since 2007, we’ve made it a point to celebrate the resources and people behind our ready-to-wear collection.
Behind the scenes of our production in Montreal
At our studio, every garment is conceived, designed, cut, and assembled in Montreal as part of our commitment to ethical manufacturing. Local production allows us to watch the pieces take shape right before our eyes. This close collaboration fosters a sense of respect for our team, who bring our creations to life every day.
Our commitment to offering ethical products begins with the selection of fabrics. We pay special attention to the materials used in our ready-to-wear line. We prioritize natural fibers as much as possible, due to their more eco-friendly and sustainable properties. It is also an honor for us to support the local textile industry by choosing Canadian knitters whenever possible. Melow sincerely believes that partnering with local collaborators helps preserve and pass on traditional craftsmanship.
Part of our production is outsourced to local subcontractors with whom we have maintained close ties for several years. However, most of it is handled by our team of seamstresses. We are fortunate to have three talented women working in our workshop, located above our store.
As team leader and sample maker, Sahondra—known as “Sah”—decided to pursue a career in sewing in 2018. What she loves most about her job is the sense of belonging she has fostered within the team. The workshop’s warm and welcoming atmosphere sets it apart from large factories.
Maricela has been working in the fashion industry for over 14 years. What brings her joy is seeing the finished garment. For her, that sight is synonymous with success. Maricela takes pride in knowing that her expertise is on display throughout our store.
Paulina has been immersed in clothing production since she was very young. Being in the workshop brings her peace. She enjoys the sound of the sewing machines and the tranquility that reigns there. Paulina considers herself lucky to be surrounded by her friends while she sews.
In short, Melow is partnering with Fashion Revolution because we also believe that the stories behind the clothes are worth telling. Once again, Melow is proud to be able to say, “I made your clothes.”
Learn more about our process