Hosts: Melissa Lynn Oddo (deMelis Atelier & Stitched Collective) Matthew Banever (Bards Clothing)

Summary:

In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of consumer power and its influence on the fashion industry, comparing it to the evolution of food consumption. We explore how fast fashion parallels the processed food revolution and how each purchase we make is essentially a vote for the kind of world we want to live in. Join us as we discuss the importance of thoughtful consumption and how small actions can collectively create significant change.

Photo: Mongers Market

Outfits:

Melissa – 

• Shirt – (vintage) Country Suburbans
• Skirt – (vintage) Country Suburbans
• Belt – Salvatore Ferragamo – Gancini
• Shoes – Dolce & Gabbana via Vestiaire Collective

Matt – 

• Jacket – Bards – Drago fabric
• Club Collar Shirt – Bards
• Tie – Geoff Nicholson
• Pants – Bards – made in Rochester, NY, Fabric from American Woolen
• Spectator shoes – Mezlan – handmade in Spain
• Bracelets – The 8th Elementt & Kathryn Bracelet Company

Key Topics Discussed:

• The concept of the dollar as a vote: every purchase is a decision for one company over another.
• How fast fashion is similar to processed food, and the need for a Whole Foods-like revolution in clothing.
• The history of how food and fashion industries have evolved in America, and how that’s impacted society.
• Predictions on the future of fashion, including the rise of made-to-order clothing and the use of AR technology.
• The role of social media and the internet in speeding up consumer awareness and accountability.

Links:

• Ferragamo – Ferragamo® in Florence: a historical bond celebrated in the new collection.
• Mongers Market – We are a collection of diverse Mongers selling vintage, industrial salvage and antique items in a 75000 square foot refurbished factory.
• Vestiaire Collective – The world’s largest community of pre-loved fashion shoppers and sellers. Download the app! The best place to buy & sell designer fashion.
• Mezlan – Mezlan Shoes creates the finest in handmade men’s designer shoes, boots, and accessories with high quality exotic materials.
• Geoff Nicholson – Tie it together.
• The 8th Elementt – Shop handmade crystal jewelry, spiritual tools and more.
• Kathryn Bracelet Company – Bracelets designed for a purpose, handmade in Connecticut.
• When Women Ran Fifth Avenue by Julie Satow – A glittering portrait of the golden age of American department stores and of three visionary women who led them.
• NAFTA – North American Free Trade Agreement.