18
FASHION
Money Matters
when it comes to Fashion
For us trend junkies, fashion items seem to occur
quite regularly on our bank statements
This isn’t a bad thing; we all know the
wonders of retail therapy and how looking
good gives us confidence and priceless
happiness. But do we think about where the
money actually goes?
Hay ley Rhind
Once we get to a certain age, we feel the
need to fill our wardrobes with quality
garments, beautiful fits and pieces to avoid
looking like every other Mary, Mavis and
Martha in town. With these desires comes
a higher price tag but we don’t often stop
to think about where this higher price is
coming from.
Many labels and brands are produced off-
shore in Third World countries, where they
are able to produce the garments
for a fraction of the cost of production in
New Zealand due to very low hourly rates,
poor working conditions, unreasonably long
hours and child labour.
Purchasing New Zealand made is becoming
on-trend. It is extremely encouraging to
see buyers make a conscious effort to think
about where products are made, who is
receiving all the profit.
Of course, as a small country, New Zealand
doesn’t offer everything we want, but with
a conscious effort and small changes we can
make a difference and take a stand against
child labour and poor working conditions in
some of the world’s most underprivileged
countries.
When buying New Zealand made, it not
only benefits the direct brand; there is
a bigger picture behind the scenes. At