From Paris to Policy: What You Need to Know About Fashion Legislation

A view of the US Capitol where policy is madeHere at Passion Lilie, sustainable, ethically made clothes are our one true love. Fashion shouldn’t hurt people or the planet, and we’re on a mission to offer eco-friendly clothing that’s both affordable and beautiful. But as much as we strive to lead the way, real change takes a team effort – and by “team,” we mean everyone, including lawmakers.

Yep, we’re talking about legislation. Stick with us! It’s not as dry as it sounds, especially when we’re diving into why public policy has a huge impact on the fashion industry (and why it’s worth your attention. From tackling climate change to enforcing labor standards, legislation is the ultimate power move for a more sustainable and ethical future. Let’s unpack it.

In this post, we’ll dive into why policy is important, and what legislation you should be looking out for in the coming administration.

A view of a building polluting the air

Why Policy Matters in Fashion

The fashion industry may bring us joy with gorgeous wrap dresses and timeless prints, but it has a darker side. Waste, pollution, lack of diversity and representation, labor abuses, and opaque supply chains are rampant – and they’re not going away without some serious action. That’s where legislation comes in.

Here’s why it matters:

  • Labor laws protect people: Fashion shouldn’t come at the cost of human rights, but forced labor and unsafe working conditions are still common in manufacturing hubs around the world. Strong labor laws – and their enforcement – can make child labor, modern slavery, and exploitation a thing of the past.
  • Environmental standards keep us accountable: The fashion industry contributes up to 10% of global carbon emissions – yikes! Without environmental regulations, practices like water-intensive textile production, toxic dyeing, and unsustainable material sourcing run rampant. Policies promoting renewable energy, waste reduction, and eco-friendly materials are essential to cleaning up our act.
  • Supply chain transparency = informed choices: As consumers, we want to know where our clothes come from and how they’re made. Transparency laws compel companies to disclose their sourcing and manufacturing processes, allowing you to shop consciously and hold brands accountable for their practices.

Public policy isn’t just about rules, it’s about raising the bar so we can all compete on a fair, sustainable playing field. Imagine a world where all brands meet higher standards, making it easier (and more affordable!) to choose eco-friendly options.

President Trump signs executive orders

Climate Legislation and How it Impacts the Fashion Industry

If you’re worried about sustainability, the words “Paris Climate Agreement” probably ring a bell. If not, no worries – here’s a quick refresher. The Paris Climate is a global pact signed by 197 nations to combat climate change. It aims to limit global warming to below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to limit the increase to 1.5°C. It's like a group project where everyone agrees to do their part to save the planet (and hold each other accountable).

In his first week in office in January 2025, President Trump initiated significant policy changes with implications for the fashion industry. Most notably, he announced the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, a move that complicates the fashion industry’s path to achieving net-zero emissions and disrupts global climate efforts. Without that framework, it’s harder for companies to align sustainability efforts across borders.

On the campaign trail, Trump claimed that “we don’t have a global warming problem” and promised to “drill, baby, drill.” In the first week of his administration, President Trump declared a national energy emergency and proposed loosening emissions regulations through executive orders. These actions represent a significant shift in US policy and has major implications for the fashion industry.

Policies favoring fossil fuels could make energy prices lower in the short term, but neglecting to develop renewable infrastructure may lead to long-term price volatility. Relaxing emissions standards during an energy emergency can increase pollution, contributing to environmental degradation.

These policy shifts can discourage companies from investing in sustainable innovations and technologies that are critical to the fashion industry. The development of low-impact materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester may stall without policy support – especially for brands that are not intrinsically motivated to go green.

A man shops for sustainable clothing

How we can push forward (even when policy falls short)

The path forward looks a little bumpy at the moment, but we’re not giving up. If anything, we’re more fired up than ever and ready to do our part. Here’s how we’re pushing forward:

  • Collaborating with private sector initiatives like The Fashion Pact or the UN Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action. These groups are bringing brands together to tackle emissions and sustainability challenges.
  • Reducing our own carbon emissions by investing in renewable energy for manufacturing and retail operations.
  • Advocating for state or local policies supporting environmental stewardship. State and local governments can pass legislation that makes a difference.

How you can make a difference:

Don’t underestimate your power to make a difference. Your voice and your choices matter! Here’s how you can support a better future for fashion:

  • Shop responsibly: Support brands (like us!) that are committed to ethical and sustainable practices. Transparency matters, and your purchases can drive demand for change.
  • Vote with purpose: Pay attention to candidates’ stances on climate change, labor laws, and sustainability. Your vote shapes the policies that impact us all. If you live in a state that makes you feel like your vote doesn’t matter, remember that each tug toward policies you believe in is important. Lawmakers have to know you exist and that people do care about these issues when they consider how to vote.
  • Stay informed: Follow updates on fashion-related legislation and share what you learn with your friends. Awareness is the first step to action.

We’re in this with you—and while the challenges may be daunting, they’re not insurmountable. Let’s keep pushing for a fashion industry (and a world) that prioritizes people and the planet over profit. Check back often for updates on fashion policy—we’ll keep you updated (and we’ll keep it panic-free).


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