Almost 10 years ago, I watched a documentary that changed the way I shop. It’s called The True Cost, and if you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend you watch it here. The film exposes the hidden impacts of the fast fashion industry — not just on the environment, but on the lives of the people who make the clothes we buy. It’s heartbreaking, and honestly, once you know the truth, you can’t un-know it.
I walked away from The True Cost with a silent vow to do better. To be a more conscious consumer. To use my purchasing power to support companies that treat people with dignity and care for the planet.
That’s why I love House of Diamonds.
If you’ve ever seen their stunning hand-stitched blankets, their flowing, elegant kimonos, or any of their other Indonesian textile pieces, you know they’re beautiful. But what makes them truly special is the story behind them — and the commitments that shape every piece they make.
House of Diamonds is committed to three things: Mindful Consumption, Exquisite Craftsmanship, and Indonesian Cultural Identity. These aren’t just buzzwords; they’re core values that guide their work.
First, their dedication to mindful consumption means they produce intentionally and sustainably. Unlike the mass-produced goods flooding fast fashion stores, every House of Diamonds product is carefully crafted by artisans who are paid fair wages and work in a dignified environment. They’re fighting back against the exploitation that fast fashion feeds on, creating an alternative that honours people and the planet.
Second, their textiles are a testament to exquisite craftsmanship. The artisans — many of whom are Indonesian women who have faced marginalization or exploitation — are trained in traditional and contemporary techniques. Each stitch is deliberate. Every design carries pride, skill, and artistry that mass production simply can’t replicate.
And third, I love that House of Diamonds is deeply rooted in Indonesian cultural identity. Their use of traditionally crafted textiles in modern day designs isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about preserving a rich cultural heritage and sharing it with the world.
Whenever I wear my House of Diamonds kimono or drape one of their blankets over a chair in my home, I feel connected to something bigger than myself. I know who made it. I know it wasn’t made at the expense of someone else’s well-being. That matters.
If you’re wondering how you can shop more ethically, here are my tips:
1. Buy Less, Choose Well
One of the most sustainable decisions you can make is to simply buy less. Overconsumption fuels waste, pollution, and exploitation. Instead of impulsively buying items that wear out quickly, invest in quality pieces that are made to last — whether that’s clothing, home goods, or textiles.
British designer Vivienne Westwood famously said, “Buy less, choose well, make it last.” Quality items might cost more upfront, but they often outlast cheaper alternatives, saving money (and waste) in the long run.
2. Do Your Research — Start with Certifications & Memberships
No system is perfect, but looking for certifications or memberships is a helpful starting point. These organizations hold businesses to higher standards for ethics, sustainability, and fair labor:
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Freedom Business Alliance (FBA): A global network of businesses that provide dignified employment for survivors of human trafficking.
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Fair Trade Federation: Members commit to fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmentally sustainable practices.
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Certified B Corporations: Companies verified to meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
When you shop from companies aligned with these standards, you’re supporting businesses that care about people and the planet.
3. Know Before You Buy - Check-Out Conscious Consumerism Reports
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Ethical Fashion Guide - Baptist World Aid Australia
4. Buy Second-Hand or Swap
Shopping second-hand is one of the greenest options available. Platforms like ThredUp and Poshmark make it easy to find pre-loved fashion. Organizing or participating in clothing swaps is another fun, sustainable option.
5. Shop Local and Artisan-Made
Support artisans and local makers like those connected through House of Diamonds. When you buy artisan-made, you’re helping preserve cultural heritage and supporting livelihoods in a way that mass production never can.
6. Ask Questions
When in doubt, ask brands:
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Who made this product?
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How were they paid and treated?
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What materials were used?
Brands that operate transparently will usually have this information readily available.
7. Progress Over Perfection
Finally, remember: no system or certification is flawless. But starting somewhere is better than doing nothing. The goal isn’t perfection, but progress — making more informed choices, asking better questions, and reducing harm where we can.
When we choose to shop differently, we’re voting with our wallets for the kind of world we want to live in. And that’s a world where people — not profits — come first.
