Evolution | FORWHY
Evolution | FORWHY: My Journey Into Sustainable Fashion
In recent years, investigations into the labor practices of luxury fashion brands like Christian Dior and Valentino have shed light on troubling realities within the industry. In 2024, Italian authorities uncovered exploitative working conditions in subcontracted workshops producing Dior and Armani handbags. Workers, often undocumented immigrants, were found working excessive hours in unsafe environments, with some even forced to sleep at their workplaces. These revelations led to judicial oversight and calls for greater accountability in luxury fashion supply chains.english.alarabiya.net+14reuters.com+14brandequity.economictimes.indiatimes.com+14en.wikipedia.org+1brandequity.economictimes.indiatimes.com+1
Despite these findings, Dior was not criminally charged. However, in May 2025, Italy's antitrust authority concluded its investigation into Dior, accepting the brand's commitments to support victims of labor exploitation. Dior pledged $2 million over five years to fund initiatives aimed at identifying and assisting exploited workers; which is a drop in Dior’s financial bucket. The company also agreed to revise its corporate ethics statements and implement stricter supplier vetting and monitoring processes.fashionunited.ukft.com+5reuters.com+5en.agcm.it+5
These events prompted me to reflect on my own journey in sustainable fashion. Back in 2018, I embarked on a project to create unique, statement bags by repurposing thrifted items and discarded materials. Each bag was a labor of love, embodying the principles of slow fashion, taking time to create thoughtfully and sustainably. I sold most of the bags, but one, in particular, stands out. A clients daughter was preparing to leave for college, but felt her wardrobe lacked style in every way. I gifted her two of my bags, hoping to boost her confidence as she embarked on her new journey. This act reinforced my belief in the power of fashion to empower and inspire.
As I continued to develop my brand, FORWHY, I realized that sustainable fashion isn't just about using eco-friendly materials or buying secondhand. It's about embracing circular fashion, slow fashion, and ethical practices. It's about making intentional choices that respect both people and the planet.
Over time, I've shifted my approach to business. Engaging more directly with clients has allowed me to build meaningful, lasting relationships. This community-centered approach aligns with my vision of a fashion industry that values transparency, ethics, and sustainability.
I’m reminded that together, we can challenge the status quo and create a fashion community that prioritizes people and the planet. Together we can redefine what luxury means. Moving beyond exploitation and embracing a future where fashion is a force for good.
Sustainable fashion not just a choice, but a movement.
