One of the things I love most about writing for Forbes is getting to dig into the big shifts (and the small details) shaping the future of fashion and retail. It’s a space where sustainability, consumer behaviour and business strategy all collide—usually in messy, but always fascinating, ways.
Here’s a little summary of some of my latest pieces – have a read and let me know what you think.
When Food Became Fashion. Why Your Next Outfit Might Be Made From Corn, Not Crude Oil
Plant-based fashion? You heard right. I took a closer look at the growing world of plant-based fashion, exploring how brands like Patagonia are using materials derived from corn, bamboo, mushrooms—even agricultural waste—to replace traditional petroleum-based fibres.
But this isn’t just a fun science experiment or a marketing gimmick. As sustainability expectations ramp up and consumers demand real change, these alternative materials could be the next big leap forward. Still, they’re not without challenges around scale, performance and price.
TikTok Exposes Fashion’s Supply Chain Secrets & Consumers Are Watching
Transparency has always been a buzzword in fashion—but lately it’s getting real. And it’s happening on social media.
On TikTok, factory owners and workers are pulling back the curtain on production processes, costs, and the markups baked into your favourite brands. For all the industry talk about “sustainability,” these videos show just how easy it is to slap a green label on a cheap product.
In this piece, I looked at how FactoryTok is giving consumers new tools to hold brands accountable—and why smart businesses will embrace this scrutiny instead of resisting it.
France Says No To Ultra Fast Fashion. Will The World Follow?
In a big policy move, France has introduced a bill aimed squarely at ultra-fast fashion giants—think Shein, Temu and co.—with proposals including environmental labelling requirements and extra fees to offset environmental harm.
It’s a serious attempt to slow the relentless churn of cheap, disposable clothes. But legislation is only one part of the puzzle. I explored whether these moves will really work, and what it would take for other countries (and the industry at large) to follow suit.
As Shein Raises Prices, Will Fast Fashion Finally Slow Down?
Shein has built its empire on rock-bottom prices and lightning-fast trends—but recently, even they’ve been hiking prices. In this piece, I explored what rising costs mean for ultra-fast fashion’s business model, whether higher prices will really reduce overconsumption, and why simply paying more doesn’t guarantee a more ethical or sustainable industry.
Every click counts! Thanks for your help. If you’re into sustainability, retail strategy, or just want to understand why your shopping habits matter more than ever, I hope you’ll find something thought-provoking in there.
Don’t forget, if you’re looking for a sustainable business advisor or a CFO who can help you balance purpose with profit, why not work with me?. I love supporting businesses ready to do things differently!