Temu’s challenges highlight the growing demand for slow and sustainable fashion.

Fast fashion might be having its moment, but Temu’s recent struggles are a reminder that speed and unsustainable practices eventually come at a cost. Shoppers are growing more aware of the environmental and ethical impacts of throwaway fast fashion - but this isn't a story about saving the planet - it's about seizing the opportunity to use fashion as a force for good. 

If you're running an ethical, sustainable, circular or slow fashion brand, you're uniquely positioned to step in and step up, and offer a better alternative to Temu. With the right strategies, this could be a tipping point for the industry, and a turning point for slow fashion - and I want to help you capitalise on this moment. 

Recent allegations of unsafe chemicals used in clothing sold by Temu have sparked investigations into the ultra-fast fashion giant, and the negative press attention has exposed the risks of fast fashion for consumers. 

For us eco-advocates who live, love and breath sustainable fashion, we've always known that the fast fashion model isn't viable for the industry long-term, but with law suits and investigations piling up, it's now abundantly clear that Temu can't maintain its rapid growth. Supply chain struggles, sustainability concerns and the risk of consumer backlash... Temu's model may not be as invincible as it once appeared - and it's a win for slow fashion. 

This is your opportunity. If you're running an ethical, sustainable, circular or slow fashion brand, swoop in and offer a better alternative that values quality over quantity. Capitalise on this moment and start with storytelling. Shoppers crave authenticity and transparency - be that for them.

Share your values, communicate that your clothes last, talk about your ethics, and lead with your purpose. It’s not just about educating shoppers to buy less; it’s about teaching them why buying better matters, and it's a movement your customers want to get behind. These aren’t just clothes we're talking about; they’re investments in the future of the planet. 

Get personal - let your audience in on the why behind your brand. Maybe it was inspired by a passion for sustainability, a love for quality craftsmanship, or a frustration with the waste and exploitation of fast fashion. Maybe you want to save the trees or support disadvantaged communities of women in India. Maybe you use only recycled materials or you donate to an ocean conservation cause with every sale. Whatever the story is, share it - and share it often. People buy from brands they trust, and personalising your brand helps build that trust in a very real and human way.

Use Temu’s troubles and harness this opportunity to position your ethical and sustainable fashion business as the better option. Now is the time for slow fashion to step into the spotlight, for people and the planet.

If you need help to craft your story, communicate your values, or create a marketing plan to grow, reach out. Slow fashion is my jam.

Claire x 

Temu sales are slowing down The Fashion Advocate
The Fashion Advocate ethical sustainable circular slow fashion business strategy mentor online course marketing how to

I spent my first five years in business stressed and in debt.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or if you're not making enough sales to survive, you're not alone. I've been there.

I was exhausted and I wanted to quit.

Then I worked out a strategy that dramatically changed my business, increased my sales, and saved me time. I want to share it with you!

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Want to know the top three ways to grow a successful and sustainable fashion brand?

  • ASK A LOT OF QUESTIONS

    Every week on Instagram, you can ask me anything about fashion, business, ethical manufacturing, sustainability, and growth to get the answers you need to overcome challenges. Marketing, PR, your strategy, sales, how to wholesale, Instagram engagement, customers, sourcing... Whatever it is, ask me your questions and I'll go LIVE on Instagram with the answers you need to move forward.

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  • KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

    To build a successful, sustainable and profitable fashion business, you have to empower yourself with knowledge and learn from others in the industry. I ran one of the largest online stores for ethical and sustainable fashion for over a decade, and I learned the ins and outs and the rights and wrongs of building a business. Now I'm sharing my strategies on my blog so you can take what you need to grow!

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  • BUILD YOUR SKILLSET AND LEVEL UP

    The only difference between a big fashion business and a small fashion business is a different skillset. Everything your competitors know - you can learn. My online courses and masterclasses are specifically designed for ethical and sustainable fashion brands, labels and businesses, so you can build your skillset, level up, fast-track your success and increase your impact.

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