This was an amazing event I got to attend last Thursday at the Scandinavia House. (the best part, it was completely FREE!) After the host of the event(Yoko Sekiguchi, President of Ampleen) came as a guest speaker to my Import and Export Class, she cordially invited some students to join the event. I for one am really interested in Corporate Social Responsibility (we all take, especially corporations, it’s about time to give back) so I raised my hand immediately to get on the list.

Students at the event
My classmates, I’m the one with the colors (Caribbean Girl)

While waiting for the event I did my research about the different companies and guest speakers that were going to conform the panel (ALWAYS do research, like your life depends on it). When I got there we were greeted and then I left my coat at the coat check.

table with food
YUM

The event was being held at a beautiful yet simple room on the second floor with an array of treats. In each seat there was a gift bag sponsored by FACE Stockholm in which we got two nail polishes, a discount coupon and a magazine. plate with goodiesEverything was delicious the wrap bites, the sliders, cupcakes (Note to self: must return to this place to check out their restaurant on the first floor).Recyclable Gift Bag

To me the most inspiring person (with the most shocking facts on her power point) was the keynote speaker Amy Hall, Director of Social Consciousness at Eileen Fisher. (their company commitment is completely impressive, check out their program). quoteThe panel was composed of incredible women, each doing their part within the fashion industry for a better world, including Prof. Nancy Gross from FIT. (If you are interested in Sustainable Fashion be sure to sign up for FM326) The conversation was about how we consumers can change the face of fashion and their practices with our demand for transparency and higher standards. Each of them gave their perspectives as to how we could improve the supply chain, wages, working conditions, CO2 emissions, and so much more. The panel of guest speakersOnce we were done with Q&A and I was soaked with inspiration, there was a networking hour where I got to meet personally all the speakers. (and of course ask for their business cards.) To be honest, I can see CSR growing and evolving within the Fashion Industry and the more I attend events, listen to guest speakers and research the initiatives out there, the more I’m sure that this is my path. (A way to help the world with what I know, fashion)

Just remember while you are at FIT, attend to as many events on and off-campus as you can. Sometimes, knowing people is as crucial as what you know. Dare to be blown away by topics you had no idea existed, and while you are it learn, network and expand your horizons. After all you don’t know where life will take you.

Empire State
I walked out to this beauty

Carpe Diem,

Sadie

3 replies on “Fashion Evolution: Consumer Power”

  1. Just love it…fun , easy to read, lots of info and yet very casual!!!
    Wonderful guide for students and new comers to NCY!!!

    1. Thank you Meli! Keep on reading, you’ll learn so much more about what goes on in this wonderful city 🙂

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