A Stitch in the Economy –

Ethical Fashion as Decent Work (SDG 8)

“Fast fashion may move quickly, but at what cost? At Rajduti, we slow down to lift up.”

The gallery wall. Photo credit: Person

 

The Hum of a Sewing Machine is a Prayer

Somewhere, in rural Bangladesh, a woman leans forward in her usual sitting spot as the morning sun filters through her window. Her sewing machine hums a quiet, familiar rhythm. She’s stitching…not just fabric but dignity, independence, and her daughter’s tuition, maybe to help her husband invest in a farming machine which might improve their livelihood. She’s seen her mother do it, perhaps learned it from her, or maybe from her grandmother, whom her mother learnt it from. How far are we looking?

Have you noticed that old fashions and styles make a circle and come back as a trend? If that’s the case, I am sure discarded textiles, offcuts, and deadstock fabrics that were dearly loved before can create futures. You know the ones that the world considers waste. And with the touch of skilled hands, they are reborn into statement pieces rooted in tradition, designed for tomorrow.

And with the touch of skilled hands, they are reborn into statement pieces rooted in tradition, designed for tomorrow.

 

“Decent Work and Economic Growth.”

— SDG 8

Currently available at the studio. Photo credit: Person

 

What we want to include and practice

SDG 8 aims to promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. This involves various aspects like ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for professional development.

 

Current trends that I want to challenge:

• Sourcing without verification: Growing up in New Zealand as a student and a fashion enthusiast, I would wait for clearance sales in big brands. As exciting as these shopping hunts used to be, it was also intriguing how I’d find a great top for $3-5 NZD or an entire outfit for under $10. But only when I became aware that I realise how they still make a profit selling at such low prices. I want to make sure that wherever I am sourcing my products from, fair prices are paid.
• Collect from individual small entrepreneurs: I want to ensure that my sources are decentralised and support local and small entrepreneurs. Build a relationship with them, get to know their opinions. Include them in the process.
• Clean, safe environment: Eventually, the aim is to ensure that we only collaborate with entrepreneurs who maintain an international standard of health and safety, Or work with them and assist them to ensure these measures are followed through.
• Growth and development: I believe everyone has the potential to expand further than what our past and ambition can offer, one of the aspiration of Rajduti is to create a network and exchange talent to offer our associated artisans skill development, better opportunities elsewhere if possible. I want to move from the traditional practice of keeping artists in the blind spot from exposure.

Goods for the home, by our artisans. Photo credit: Person

 

Why It Matters

Rural job creation in textile arts and design

Our artisans don’t need to leave their villages to earn. We bring work to them, preserving cultural life and family ties.

Transparent pay and production models

We reject exploitation. Every wage is fair, every process documented, and every voice heard.

Career-building, not just task-based labour

We offer pathways to creative leadership, digital literacy, and financial independence. Our artisans aren’t just makers — they’re entrepreneurs.

Did You Know?

Only 2% of garment workers globally earn a living wage. Rajduti is proud to be part of the change.

Conscious fashion is not a trend; it’s a responsibility. Let your wardrobe reflect the kind of world you want to wear.

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