Ethical versus Fair trade – what does it all mean when it comes to clothing?

June 27th, 2010 | by admin |

The ethical and Fair trade worlds are fraught with inconsistencies and consumer pitfalls but if you know what the differences are between the two and you know what to look for, the worlds of ethical and Fair trade are your wardrobe’s oyster. Let’s start by defining the two terms.

Ethical is a term without official definition or regulation when it comes to business and commerce and is loosely used by companies to describe the practices they are following which they believe to be of direct benefit to producers of the products they sell or use. Because it has now become such a broad term, it means different things to many different people and companies and so is difficult to define. Essentially the common ground among all things ethical is that minimal social, physical or economic harm comes to those who grow the food we eat, supply the materials we use or make the clothes and shoes we wear. It is a mindset and one that although is definitely positive, also needs pinning down.

Fair trade differs from ethical in that it is clearly defined and regulated and a company cannot claim to be Fair trade if they do not meet the criteria. As a consumer you will have seen the International Fair Trade Certification mark, which has a black background and blue and green symbol. Where you see this sign, you can be assured that fair prices with suppliers are guaranteed, that the workplace is safe and legal and that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure that minimal damage is done to the environment. Companies must apply for a licence to include the fair trade certification mark on their products and so consumers that see this know that they are buying with a clear conscience and helping to take consumerism in the right direction.

So which should you look for when you’re clothes shopping? Both. While Fair trade is an official certification and certainly one that you can trust, ethical is still a very important indicator that the item you are buying comes from a sustainable source and should be taken as such. However, Fair trade is more widespread in the food and wine sectors and only recently starting to take off in a big way in fashion.

You should find that ethical fashion is both of great quality, original design and is still reasonably priced. If you’re clothes shopping online, look for the ethical policy of the brand you are buying from, if they’ve got one, it’ll be on their website. Chances are if you can’t find one, then they haven’t got one and if you’re serious about buying fairtrade and outdoor clothing, consider looking elsewhere for ethical mens clothing.


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