Photo from Elle Magazine
The “farm-to-fashion aesthetic” has recently emerged in the fashion industry, featured in numerous runway shows. Fashion brands have begun incorporating elements from farm clothing in their designs, putting weight on comfortability and style. The aesthetic drew inspiration from the simplicity of farmers’ clothing and has transformed the way in which traditional farming wear is viewed. It emerged as more people started to prioritize comfort and sustainability.
The aesthetic centers around sustainable practices, prioritizing clothing made from ethically sourced fabrics and eco-friendly manufacturing practices. Using upcycled materials in clothing lines aims to reduce the environmental effects on the mass production of clothes. Many brands such as Christy Dawn focus on preserving local craftsmanship and using regeneratively farmed cotton to reduce overall carbon footprint. Different production techniques can be incorporated during the manufacturing stage of creating the garment to reduce its environmental effects.
The farm-to-fashion aesthetic uses a distinct color palette of neutral and earthy tones like grey, brown and red, which reflect the feeling of rural life. The aesthetic uses fabrics such as natural fibers, semi-synthetic, recycled materials, semi-synthetic fibers and cotton for a more functional and sustainable emphasis on clothing. A common technique used in the farming aesthetic is layering, a combination of different garments and textures, to create a more compelling style. Layering is also useful for harsher weather conditions; pairing overall dresses in denim with a woolen fabric jumper adds versatility across seasons. To complete the look, you could add work boots or accessories like leather belts or handmade earrings.
Nature heavily defines the farm-to-fashion aesthetic. Design prints like natural dyes, which help create more vivid colors of the clothing and petal motifs are often used by designers to convey the beauty of nature. This focus on nature is further emphasized by using organic materials. The aesthetic also sheds light on the simplicity of fashion, embracing rural style and living.
The farm-to-fashion aesthetic is not only a clothing trend but a significant push for sustainability. The movement focuses more on local sources, like farms and small-scale productions, unlike the mass-scale production process of conventional clothing. Increased awareness of the ethical and environmental ramifications of clothing production from consumers motivates brands to incorporate more eco-friendly clothing items. Overall, the farm-to-fashion aesthetic captures the charm of rural style and allows consumers to practice and try different sustainable fashion choices.