I continue to promote brands without sponsorship, partly because I’m not yet focused on monetizing this project, and also because I refuse to accept money from unethical brands. Ideally, I’d love to have affiliate links for the brands I genuinely love, but my preferences are evolving. While I’ve always been fond of Zara’s items, it’s now widely known that in 2024, they still haven’t addressed their poor labor conditions. Jessica, Mary, and Margo all want that top for $15, and Zara hires skilled photographers to make us forget who made it. That’s marketing at its finest— they want us to admire their work, well, I’m content to window shop.
Given how much factory workers have contributed to making Zara what it is today, they deserve far more recognition. They should be the focus of this brand. Imagine how many people would shop at Zara guilt-free if that were the case. But, although I may no longer shop there, I still draw inspiration from their marketing. As I grow my platform, I want to ensure that I promote brands that don’t exploit people. Unfortunately, Zara continues to exploit, dehumanize, and neglect basic human rights in their pursuit of remaining a top fast-fashion retailer. This is why people say money is the root of all evil—because this is what it takes to stay on top. More money often means losing sight of what truly matters.
What I’m getting at is that even though Zara hasn’t changed after years of criticism and activism, you can still admire aspects of their brand and gather inspiration without guilt. I genuinely love some of their items, but after thrifting more in 2024 than ever before, I’ve discovered that I can find pieces I adore for $5 or less. It’s recycled fashion. Fashion trends repeat themselves, so why not take advantage of that? You can still thrift Zara—don’t forget about that! As we continue to uncover more unethical brands, I plan to make this blog a space where we focus on the ethics of the labor force. No matter where workers are in the world, we should never forget what they endure and how our choices impact their lives.
Long Lace Dress
This dress is stunning but you’re crazy if you think one of these doesn’t exist at every thrift store.
Striped Midi Dress
Flat Embroidered Sandals
I just found an embroidered pair of sandals at the thrift, and I love embroidered, embellished anything– alas they were not my size but that’s okay. I love a treasure hunt, after all, Outer Banks is my favorite show.
Embroidered Tassel Loafers
Craft night is calling! Get out your studs, your beads, whatever you can find and make a pair of loafers unique and special to you.
Simple Metallic Knit Top
I have actually thrifted this, but I’m including it because you should never pass up on a metallic knit tank, in any color. This over a cotton tank, any day.
Embellished Tank
Should we just all get embellished kits and take it from there?
Cargo Pants
This is a beautiful photo, and imo, a seamlessly perfect outfit. Everything about this feels right. This is inspiration to get those light cargo pants, some chunky heals and keep it simple with a tank.
For more information on how Zara continues to treat their employees in 2024 read this article: https://www.uni-europa.org/news/media-report-reveals-undignified-working-conditions-at-zara-in-sweden/
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