Emily Marven is a fast fashion blogger turned sustainable fashion advocate and creative – and we love what she’s putting out into the world.
After learning about the realities of the fashion industry and its impact on the planet and people, Emily decided to switch up her shopping habits and learn more about the slow fashion movement. Ever since, she’s been writing about how we can slow down our consumption and value what we wear.
We had the pleasure to speak to Emily to learn more about what inspires her, and what she’s looking forward to in the future. Read our Q&A to find out more!
Image credit: Emily Marven
What motivated you to start doing what you’re doing?
Learning about the Rana Plaza disaster really opened my eyes to the harsh realities of the fashion industry. It led me to more documentaries and creators that highlighted the fashion industry’s harm which really motivated me to make a switch.
What’s a brand you really admire?
I really admire the work of Patagonia, I really hope to see their ethos in more brands.
Who’s one person that inspires you?
I am really inspired by Aditi Mayer’s work. She is an incredible writer and photographer and one of the first creators I landed on when learning more about sustainable fashion.
What’s some advice you have for people wanting to shop more consciously?
Shopping consciously can be very daunting in the beginning. I always recommend starting at square one and looking at the clothes you already own. Try experimenting with your clothes – it gives you a great sense of what your personal style is and where the gaps in your wardrobe are, so you can shop whilst avoiding those pesky micro trends in the future. You can even digitise your wardrobe if that helps! And then shop slowly, shop less and shop better. If you’re not going to wear an item at least 30 times it’s not worth buying. (I would also recommend people make themselves aware of how to spot greenwashing so we don’t have another victim of the H&M conscious range).
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?
Rest is not a reward.
What’s inspired you recently?
I’m a very outdoorsy person and going on walks and watching the early signs of Spring creep in has been really exciting.
What’s one change you wish to see in the world?
I’d like to see people paid fair and liveable wages. Even looking solely at the fashion industry, when garment workers’ are valued and paid fairly it makes such an impact.
What’s one thing that’s giving you hope for the future?
I feel like there’s a lot of power in community. So seeing how many people are advocating for a more sustainable future both online and offline gives me a lot of hope.
What’s one quote that you live by?
I don’t really have a quote I live by. But I did read this quote from bell hooks recently which I really liked: ‘The function of art is to do more than tell it like it is – it’s to imagine what is possible.’
What’s a wardrobe essential you can’t live without?
It’s very basic but a plain white t-shirt. Once you find a good quality white t-shirt you cannot live without it.
You can find more of Emily’s writings on her website or on her Instagram.