It’s that time of year again – Fashion Revolution Week is back, and it’s more relevant than ever.
Whether you’re a longtime advocate for ethical fashion or just starting to question who made your clothes, this global movement is your annual reminder that fashion can – and should – be a force for good.
In this cheat sheet, we’re breaking down what Fashion Revolution Week is all about, why it matters, and where you need to be if you want to be part of the conversation. From panel talks and clothing swaps to film screenings and creative workshops, here’s everything you need to know to get the most out of this powerful week of action.
Fashion Revolution Week is more than just a moment on the calendar – it’s a global call to action. Born out of tragedy, the movement began in response to the devastating Rana Plaza factory collapse in Bangladesh on April 24, 2013. The disaster claimed the lives of 1,134 garment workers and injured thousands more, exposing the dark reality behind the fast fashion industry. In the wake of this tragedy, Fashion Revolution was launched to demand greater transparency, accountability, and sustainability across the fashion supply chain.
Since then, Fashion Revolution Week has become the world’s largest fashion activism movement, mobilising individuals, brands, and organisations around the globe each April to ask critical questions like Who made my clothes? and What’s in my clothes? It’s a week dedicated to rethinking how fashion is made and consumed – and New Zealand is stepping up with a range of events and initiatives.
Here’s how Aotearoa is joining the global conversation this Fashion Revolution Week.
Fashioning Aotearoa: A Local Lens on Global Issues
The New Zealand chapter of Fashion Revolution has launched an Instagram series titled “Fashioning Aotearoa,” profiling local organisations that are leading the charge in reshaping the fashion landscape. From ethical brands to community initiatives, the series highlights the people and projects proving that sustainable fashion is not just possible, but already happening.
The first post in the series is already live on @Fash_Rev_NewZealand, with new profiles rolling out throughout the week. Followers are encouraged to engage by liking, commenting, and sharing to help amplify these important stories.
Daily Instagram Takeovers: Voices from the Frontline
Throughout the week, the @Fash_Rev_NewZealand Instagram account will be hosting daily takeovers by local designers, makers, and activists. Each guest will share their unique perspective on how they’re contributing to a more ethical, sustainable, and transparent fashion system.
These takeovers offer a rare behind-the-scenes look into the practices and values driving change in Aotearoa’s fashion community – and provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and engagement.
Fix It with Fashion: Mend in Public Day
One of the week’s key in-person events is “Fix It with Fashion Revolution and Repair Café,” a collaborative initiative with Repair Café and Auckland Central Library. The event invites the public to bring along damaged or unloved clothing for mending, repair, or creative customisation, with support from a team of skilled volunteers.
Date: Sunday 4th May (held after Fashion Revolution Week due to the Easter break)
Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm
Location: Auckland Central Library
The goal? To extend the life of garments, reduce waste, and inspire more conscious consumption habits – all while connecting with others in a shared spirit of creativity and care.
What’s Still to Come
While some details are still being finalised, Fashion Revolution New Zealand has several additional events in the works, including:
- An up-cycling challenge encouraging people to reimagine what they already own
- A second-hand shopping event promoting slow fashion and circular consumption
- A special conversation with Carry Somers, co-founder of the global Fashion Revolution movement, expected toward the end of April
These events aim to deepen the conversation around sustainable fashion and bring more people into the movement.
How to Get Involved
Fashion Revolution Week offers a chance for everyone to reflect on their role in the fashion system – whether as a consumer, maker, or advocate. From attending events and engaging with local initiatives to simply asking brands for transparency, there are countless ways to take part.
For updates, stories, and daily takeovers, follow @Fash_Rev_NewZealand and join the growing community of people demanding a fashion industry that works for people and the planet.