It was 10 years ago, when I was taking classes on consumer behaviorism; we covered Consume Authors. As an aspiring fashion designer, European point of realistic view challenged me to be creative and result oriented at the same time.
After all, we were being educated to deliver for an industy that non of the things which are being made are truly essential for survival. In short, we were creating things that no one really needs but feels desire for. This is where we should keep in mind as Francesco Morace suggest; we actually are all “Consume Authors”.
To have a better insight about the subject, it is as simple as the etymology of “author”.
As quoted from Merriem Webster: au·thor | \ ˈȯ-thər \
Definition of author (Entry 1 of 2)
1: the writer of a literary work (such as a book)a famous author
2a: one that originates or creates something : SOURCEsoftware authorsfilm authorsthe author of this crime
By solely departing from this point, one can easly understand that consumer is the one who shapes what the industry delivers. Yet, as consume authors we are not fully aware of our power and driving force on what goes in to production. The more we become aware of all the unfair labor, waste of energy and excess materials that our ordinary / poorly tough decisions cause, the much cleaner the market will become.
Sooner or later, when we have more and more problems caused by fashion / textile industry, we will – at some point – have no choice to choose to buy or not to buy. Before we even get to that point, there are other ways to prevent negative impact and create positive solutions, again based on our mindful choices.
The more we question where the product comes from, who makes it and how much waste (carbon footprint) it produces, the companies would likely to deliver accordingly, if they want a longer life span, before their target shifts to a sustainable / traceable design – production practice.
There are several simple & easy ways to keep your business and consumption habits clean. These steps can be applied from shopping routines to your everyday behaviors. Later, we will have small coverage on them too. Stay tuned :)
Article by Elvan Yaykıran
About Elvan Yaykıran
Had a highly sensitive eye on color & details from childhood.
Later she merged her ability with design and for years, translates these into garments. Loves to explore new places and cultures, feels at ease in nature; which is her main source of inspiration & lecturer in life. Prefers seaside over mountains. Finds plant care meditative and enjoys playing with mud / clay.
After completing Fashion Design & Marketing based educational life between London & Milan, she has settled in Istanbul in 2011, where she started her local career as Assistant Designer. Since 2016, she has been assigned as the Head Designer for a womenswear brand, which has history over 40 years in field.