Fashion Revolution 2025: Small actions lead to big impacts

As we all know, the fashion industry’s practices have been scrutinized for a while now. The industry faces several key issues that need to be addressed, including social, cultural, and environmental challenges. However, we all have a role to play in working together to resolve these problems. Each of us shares the responsibility to contribute to solutions. If not, at least try to bring about a change. Global issues of environmental pollution and exploitation of human and natural resources require local solutions.

Therefore, the theme for this year? Think globally, act locally.

It’s a powerful reminder that change doesn’t only happen on international stages — it begins at home, in your city, with your choices. Whether lobbying for better policies, supporting local tailors, or repairing your favourite clothes instead of replacing them, your local action can spark global impact. If not, think of a mended shirt, an honest question, or a visit to a local maker.

Bonus tip: Read our article on choosing your next garment to update your wardrobe in a more environmental-friendly way

What does ​“think globally, act locally” mean in fashion?

This year’s theme is a call to collective action, encouraging people like you to focus on change within their own communities while staying connected to global injustices. Imagine this: you’re sitting in the sun, mending your favourite jumper. Or swapping stories (and sweaters) at a local clothes swap. Or maybe you’re writing a quick email to your local rep from the confines of your home, tea in hand, because you believe things can be better.

“The only way to make fashion fairer is to tackle it together, from the ground up.”

Instead of waiting for big brands or policymakers to take the lead, you can be the spark. Whether that’s supporting circular shops, joining repair events, or pushing for change through local activism, a revolution can begin in your backyard. 

After all, local wins = global progress.

The 3 steps to take action (Fashion Revolution style)

Fashion Revolution breaks action down into three accessible steps — simple enough for anyone to get started, powerful enough to drive systemic change. Taking action feels good. It’s creative. It’s empowering. And most of all — it connects us.

1. Be curious

Start by asking questions:

• Who made my clothes?

• Where were they made?

• What materials are in them?

Don’t worry if you don’t have all the answers. The revolution starts by simply asking the right questions.

2. Find out

Dive deeper into the brands you wear and support.

• Are workers paid a living wage?

• Does the brand use monomaterials for better recyclability?

• Are they just greenwashing, or do they have real evidence?

You don’t have to become a fashion detective overnight, but knowing a little can change a lot. It’s surprising to see how much you uncover once you dig a little deeper. 

3. Do something

Now’s the time to take action — no matter how big or small. Even a tiny action is better than none. Think of one thing you can do today. Mend a hole. Tell a friend what you learned today. Whatever feels doable to you.

Ideas:

• Attend a repair or mending event

• Share your Fashion Revolution stories online

• Join a clothes swap in your neighbourhood

• Visit a local artisan or more sustainable fashion store

• Contact your local representative about fashion policy

Want to learn why artisan work is vital? Read our piece on celebrating African artisans

Remember, doing something is more powerful than doing nothing — even if it’s just mending a sock. At COSH!, we make this easier by helping you discover brands that are transparent about their supply chains. 

Fashion Revolution Week 2025: key dates & events

Here are some important dates to mark in your calendar:

Fashion Revolution Week

Monday April 22 – Sunday April 27, 2025

A global week of awareness, events, and local action in remembrance of the Rana Plaza disaster.

Global Mend in Public Day

Saturday April 26, 2025

One of the highlights of the week is Mend in Public Day, where people all over the world head into public spaces — needle and thread in hand — to repair their clothes in community.

This grassroots event shows that repairing is revolutionary. It’s a gentle protest against fast fashion, and a creative, visible way to champion a culture of care and longevity in clothing.

Want to join or host your own mending action? Check out our COSH! guide to Global Mend in Public Day for tips and inspiration

“Mending a garment isn’t just about fixing a tear — it’s about restoring value, slowing things down, and reconnecting with what we wear.”

Collective change starts with small steps

The fashion industry won’t change overnight but your local action can spark global ripples.

Whether you’re learning more, asking questions, or stitching up your favourite jeans in the park, you’re part of something bigger. So go ahead – be curious, find out, and do something. Still wondering how to make a difference? Start small. 

The easiest way to start small is to be aware of your own clothing consumption.

How? Find out everything about a digital wardrobe here. 

With that, what’s your first step?

✂️ Join Global Mend in Public Day with COSH!

🔍 Explore transparent fashion brands near you on COSH!

🧵 Discover local circular shops and artisans that care as much as you do

Fashion Revolution Week is your invitation to get involved and push for a fashion system that values people and the planet. You just have to start. One stitch, one story, one step at a time.