Slideshow
Slide Show: Sew Local
The fashion world, as usual, is abuzz. But the topic isn’t new collections or red carpets—it’s the working conditions in overseas factories. Much like feedlots and chicken factories inspired socially conscious eaters to buy local, modern shoppers seek supply chains they know.
In Portland, a growing number of manufacturers churn out thousands of pieces of apparel and accessories per month in clean, safe environments. While big clothing companies consider new safety standards and higher wages (the minimum wage in Bangladesh is US$38 per month), these smaller players already pay their workers livable wages and offer benefits.
Check out items from three local companies leading the way.