Any new project takes research. And while it’s invigorating to get all the facts together, it can also be disheartening. When Ignacio and I started the research process for Venus in Cancer, we learned that fashion is a huge contributor to pollution, exploitation, and climate change.
I saw Angela Davis speak once and she said (and I’m summarizing) that once you find hope and freedom through activism, you soon become aware and learn more about other factors that cause harm in the world. And therefore the fight doesn’t stop.
Venus in Cancer sought (and still seeks) to center and uplift joy and liberation in our communities through fashion. But the very thing we wanted to bring to the world is one of the many things that’s harming the world.
Venus in Cancer is a product of the bravery and embrace of a more authentic life. Over the last few months, we asked ourselves, “how do we make this sustainable for ourselves, the planet, and our community?” Here’s our answer:
🌱We will launch a handmade collection, where we upcycle clothes and incorporate embroidery and dyes (mixed media art on clothes!).
💕We will continue to release a variety of on-demand products to avoid bulk orders and over production, with digital media printed on environmentally conscious and ethically sourced products.
PS: There are no current plans for another collaboration with a slow fashion brand, but hopefully soon!
The fight doesn't stop, but we're resilient. The fight doesn't stop, but we come up with alternatives and solutions.
Written by Sofía Lara Carbone. A huge shoutout to the Remember Who Made Them podcast and Fashion Revolution for all the knowledge, activism, and resources.
Sofía is a global health professional and Founder and Creative Director at Venus in Cancer. Sofía is committed to fostering joy, aesthetic force, and health equity. Follow Sofía's writing here.