Fast fashion might bring us the latest trends at bargain prices, but what’s the real cost behind those cheap clothes, backpacks, bags, and accessories? At MADE FREE, we’re passionate about fair trade and sustainable practices, and we believe in spreading awareness about the true impact of fast fashion. Here are five documentaries that will change the way you look at your wardrobe.
1. The True Cost (2015)
Dive deep into the world of fashion with The True Cost, a groundbreaking documentary that exposes the environmental and human toll of the fashion industry. Directed by Andrew Morgan, this film highlights the exploitation of workers and the environmental degradation caused by fast fashion. Featuring interviews with industry leaders like Stella McCartney and Vandana Shiva, it’s a must-watch for anyone who cares about where their clothes come from. You can stream it on Amazon Prime and YouTube.
You might also like: How Paying a Livable Page Can Help Stop Human Trafficking Networks
2. Made in Bangladesh (2019)
Although not a traditional documentary, Made in Bangladesh is a powerful drama that portrays the real-life struggles of garment workers in Bangladesh. Directed by Rubaiyat Hossain, the film follows Shimu, a young textile worker who fights for labor rights after a tragic incident at her factory. This film offers a raw and realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by garment workers and underscores the importance of fair wages and safe working conditions. You can watch this on Amazon Prime.
You might also like: International Women’s Day 2024: Economic Empowerment for Change
3. RiverBlue (2017)
Follow Canadian conservationist Mark Angelo on a global journey to uncover the devastating effects of the fashion industry on the world’s rivers in RiverBlue. This documentary not only reveals the shocking pollution caused by textile dyeing but also provides hopeful solutions for a more sustainable future. It’s an eye-opening film that will make you rethink your fashion choices. You can stream it on Vimeo.
You might also like: What is vegetable tanned leather?
4. Unravel (2012)
Short but impactful, Unravel takes you inside a textile recycling facility in India. Directed by Meghna Gupta, this 14-minute documentary shows how discarded clothes from the West are repurposed into yarn. It offers a unique perspective on waste and the potential for more sustainable practices in the fashion industry. You can watch it on YouTube and Vimeo.
You might also like: Everything You Need to Know About Our Top Recycled Polyester Products
5. The Machinists (2010)
Get a personal look at the lives of three female garment workers in Dhaka, Bangladesh, with The Machinists. Directed by Hannan Majid and Richard York, this fast fashion documentary follows these women as they strive for better working conditions and fair wages in factories producing clothes for major brands. It’s a deeply moving account of their daily battles and the systemic issues within the industry. You can stream it on YouTube.
You might also like: Meet the MADE FREE Makers
Discover More
These documentaries do more than just inform—they inspire action. They reveal the hidden costs of fast fashion and challenge us to make more ethical and sustainable choices. By educating ourselves and others about the realities of fast fashion, we can collectively push for a more just and sustainable fashion industry.
At MADE FREE, our commitment to forging economic empowerment is at the core of everything we do. By ensuring that all of our products are handcrafted in small factory teams certified by the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) or that exceed WFTO standards, we are not just advocating for ethical production; we are actively investing in safe, dignified environments where makers can thrive.
For more about our mission and ethically made products, visit MADE FREE.
0 comments