Midterms wrapping up end of this week. Current project for Concepts homework: Gap Competition. We choose 2 categories to design. I am doing Gap Kids and Accessories for Banana Republic. I was totally stoked about my children's wear collection so far, until what was discussed today in my sewing class. I guess there was a big thing on the news last night about child labor allegations with Gap in China [?] I have yet to research this, which I will do this weekend. I really hope that it is not the case, but I can only assume that more than half my wardrobe is made by children. :( It is funny because child labor I think is so much like recycling...[warning: I may butcher my thoughts] most people find child labor to be horrible and an evil act, and we all love to talk about how horrible it is, yet we all assume that you, my neighbor, my dentist, hairdresser etc. is taking care of it. Just like recycling, so many people assume that everyone else is taking care of it for them. BUT NO...NO ONE is [well of course people are, but generally speaking] I can and will say this. That when I do have any of my items manufactured, you can believe that I will go over with a fine tooth comb that the people who are making my clothing will not be children, and whoever does will make a living that they can actually live a meaningful life on and that the working conditions are conditions that I myself would feel comfortable working in. I guess the only thing that this disturbing news has left me with is #1 I am even more eager to make more of my own clothes for myself and friends, #2 buy from those who do the same and #3 be WAAAAAAY more conscious of who is making my items... I just got to be more on top of this, specially since this is the field I am going into! But not to end this on a sour note, here is what my children's wear is developing into so far....My inspiration is from the Swedish graphic designer Olle Eksell... :)
