Shop Small Highlight: L’Avenue Boutique (& avoiding fast fashion)

outfit details: dress / shoes / bag

The Horrifying Realities of the Fast Fashion Industry

Something that has been brought to my attention recently through social media is the horrifying realities of the fast fashion industry. I’ve honestly never bought anything from Shein before and have always seen it as a “scammy” type e-commerce site. Sure, a $12 cute dress is a tempting idea, but I always thought that it would just fall apart anyway after one wear. The thought of what went into creating a dress for so cheap never crossed my mind. Which I know is ridiculous.

After Shein absurdly started selling swastika necklaces and it blew up on the internet for how horrific it was, more and more things about the fast fashion industry were being brought to my attention. A $12 dress isn’t $12 just because its made with cheap materials. Its so cheap because the company is exploiting its workers. These workers, typically in 3rd world countries, are paid next to nothing and are not given breaks. (info taken from @activistnat on Instagram)

Shein is not the only company that is guilty of this, Romwe, Zaful, Missguided and so many other companies EXPLOIT their workers. I will never support these brands nor recommend them to anyone. Of course, everyone loves a bargain or a good deal but these prices are too good to be true. You are truly doing worse things by supporting these companies than paying a little bit more for products that are made in a sound moral manner and a socially responsible manner.

Now I will try my best research how products are made before purchasing them online ignorantly. Additionally, I will do my best to support small businesses! To begin doing this I will be doing small business highlights on Annie B. Today I am featuring an adorable new online boutique called L’Avenue!

L’Avenue Boutique

L’Avenue Boutique is brand new and is run out of Greensboro, NC which is near and dear to my heart because it is so close to Wake! Their clothes are so chic and feminine. My dress is from there! They have a little European flair, which I love! Please check them out and support them! This weekend they are having a 30% off summer sale before they stock for the fall season. So, definitely take advantage of these great prices!

Wrapping it Up

I urge you to also do some digging in a company before purchasing from them. It is absurd how many fashion companies do not operate in a morally sound manner. Also, a great way to support small businesses is through shopping on Etsy! So many talented people create beautiful products and sell them through Etsy.

Hope you have a fabulous weekend. xx

If you are interested in another small business I’ve highlighted click here to read about American Rhino.

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