One of the most rewarding parts about The Good Wear's platform is connecting with others. There are so many individuals out there who are interested and doing amazing things to better our viewpoints on fashion, sustainability and our mindful consumer habits. And no matter where we are in our ethical style journey, we can find something to relate and challenge each other on.

So today's post is an introduction to one of my current favorite influencers growing in this industry. Keira from Style Me Fair has created a blogging platform to educate her readers on ethical fashion, brands to know, style tips + tricks and more fun interactive content. She's one to follow as she is on her path to being a slow fashion consumer in Phoenix, Arizona. Check out her interview below and get to know Keira!

What’s your background in?

Well, I’m still pretty young so I still haven’t developed too much of a “background”. However, I studied Psychology in my undergrad and currently work in the Human Resources department for Grand Canyon University. I never had much of a background or interest in fashion other than putting together cute outfits. I was launched into the ethical fashion movement due to my passion for spreading word about the injustices within the industry, and my love for fashion is developing as a by-product of that passion!
 

What made you want to start your blog?

I was working my first full-time job out of college, and I felt that something was missing. I actually started my MBA (which was free since I work at a college), and was absolutely miserable. I ended up quitting three classes in because I knew it just wasn’t right for me at the time, no matter how smart or responsible it seemed. I knew there was something else out there for me, I just didn’t know what it was yet! Then a few months later, I discovered the world of ethical fashion and I knew I had found my passion project!
 

When did you first learn about ethical fashion?

I stumbled upon it really! I had discovered a local jewelry company called The Shine Project, and became engulfed in their story and the idea of “socially conscious” fashion companies. I jumped on Google to research similar companies, and quickly learned all about the ethical and sustainable fashion movement. Shortly after, I watched The True Cost documentary, and this changed everything for me. My heart was truly broken by the horrific injustices being committed in the name of “fashion”, and right then and there I knew I had discovered my passion.

Was it hard to "make the switch" from fast to slow fashion?

Not at all! It was so much easier than I thought it would be! Granted, I’ve had several pieces gifted by generous brands. When I realized that I could still shop consignment and resale shops, it became so simple! When I do need an item that I’d like to be super high quality, I sit on it for a few months, then make the plunge once I know I’ll wear the item enough.
 

What is your favorite part of the ethical + sustainable fashion movement?

This is a tough one, but I’d say my favorite part is the sense of community surrounding the movement. (Almost) every blogger, brand, and follower is supportive of one another, because everyone is here to accomplish the same goal!
 

What is your favorite value you get to share with your platform?

Transparency. It’s a buzz-word in our culture and even in the ethical fashion movement, but it’s so important. Transparency with clothing and collaborations is surely an important aspect of my blog. However, I am also seeking to be transparent in every area of my life. I started out thinking that I would only share about ethical fashion brands, but I’ve quickly realized that the world of social media desperately needs more real life posts. They need to know the ups and downs of my slow fashion journey, my career, my relationships... all of it! There are enough picture-perfect accounts filled with gorgeous outfits and lavish vacations. I need more transparency in my feed, and I can’t sit around and wait for others to make the change, I’ve got to blaze the trail. (Whoa, I just gave myself a pep-talk there).

What advice would you give to a first-time ethical shopper?

Start NOW! You don’t have to have a perfect closet to “make the switch”. There is a misconception that you have to gut your closet of all fast-fashion pieces before you can join the movement, and that couldn't be farther from the truth! Here’s a few first steps:

1. Start with what you have. Go through your closet and identify the basic pieces you have and love, as well as the gaps. Are you missing a classic white T? A black pair of boots? Next, search for those items at your local thrift store, ThredUp, or purchase a high-quality piece from an ethical fashion brand.
2. Get rid of what you don’t need! Clutter is the ultimate road-block to practicing “slow fashion”.
3. Follow influencers, brands, and bloggers who support the movement. Check below for a few of my favorites!
    

Who inspires you the most when it comes to ethical/responsible fashion?

Oh man! So many, but here’s just a few:

Instagram:
Nick and Emily of @adaypack
Kelly of @thegoodwearblog
Cassidy of @life_simplified

Websites:
The Good Trade
Eco Warrior Princess

Who is your favorite ethical/sustainable fashion brand?

Again, there are so many! Here’s a few of my favorites:

I love Elegantees’ clothing, mission, and story!
Nisolo has beautiful high-quality shoes, and I admire how popular they’ve grown!
JOYN’s bags are so well-made and simply gorgeous!
 

What's your favorite quote regarding ethical fashion?

“We have reached a point at which clothes shopping has more in common with a compulsion than a love or respect for style”. - Lucy Siegle, To Die For

Follow along with Keira of Style Me Fair on Instagram.