Words have power. Knowing lingo can be used to inform that this is the right item. It can also signal that you are in the know and part of some tribe and, consequently sidelining others from the bigger conversation. I am going to preface this by saying, I am not an expert but the lingo, buzz words, and hashtags come up in the work I do and as part of a larger concern for this world we live in.

You may may already be in the know on all of these. However, I am guessing most people have a solid guess of what these terms mean but they do not use them in regular conversation.

Organic

This term is one I have seen for most of my adult life. Initially it stirred up ideas of healthier and more expensive options for produce. Then I started seeing it on packaged food and even clothing and accessories. Here is what I understand: organic refers to a lack of manmade chemicals in the growth of an item, ie: no chemical pesticides, hormones, etc. Then there is certified organic which holds a more structured legal guarantee.

For quite some time I wondered why I should care so much, especially in a tote or T-shirt. It felt like a fad. Eventually I started hearing about a larger domino effect to the flora and fauna. One consequence of using chemicals is the formation of super pests requiring more and more aggressive defenses. Then there are the bees which are being indirectly pushed to endangered rates. The honeybee is my name sake and I have sentimental attachment. But they also play a vital role in our ecosystem. So, these are just a couple of reasons why you may be interested in reading more and looking for the organic label, even in totes and T-shirts.

Sustainably built

This refers to products made from materials that are recycled, fast growing, and/or biodegradable. So much of our manufacturing can have a really awful impact on our environment. Though it can take time, some companies are starting to adjust their practices. In my personal life, I have been looking for companies that prioritize this in everything from shoes to consumable items like shampoo, and household accessories with less plastic packaging and parts.

In my creative business I order from companies like Rio Grande which has a sustainability fact sheet about what is recycled vs. mined. Recycled materials and surfaces are a major part of my creations. Even my packaging is recycled and/or biodegradable. Where I am not satisfied with my supplies and materials, I continue to look for more sustainable options.

Fast Fashion

This is a newer one but if you are not already hearing it, I think you will start hearing it more and more. This refers to fashion made to a specific trend that you will not wear for many years. Either people spend a lot of money on these items or do not but both have consequences.

On the high end, some companies will literally burn excess stock to keep that high demand and avoid price drops when stock remains at the end of a season. For the cheaper clothes, that price is achieved through poor quality materials that wear out super quick and in many circumstances, there is little regard for the wages and work conditions of those creating the product. Because these items were cheaply acquired, you probably do not mind just tossing them. But when you toss the unwanted, perhaps unusable garment, those synthetic fibers like elastic do not break down and biodegrade.

The solution is a bonus lingo, Capsule Wardrobe. This refers to the idea of having a selection of clothing that is well made and timeless. You can add a small accessory or limited articles of clothing here or there to keep with the fun trends if that is your speed. Other solutions include buying second hand, or mending items before tossing them out.

I hope you feel looped in if you did not already. Maybe these words will come to mind next time you make a purchase of clothing and accessories.