Is Fast-Fashion Destroying Culture? With V.Birchwood (Episode 84)

Creative Culture with Steve Ramsey

This episode of Creative Culture is a look into the enchanting world of historical fashion with the talented Vasi Birchwood who not only dons but also meticulously crafts her own historical attire that she wears daily. We explored Vasi's journey into hand sewing and her passion for bringing the clothing of the working-class Victorian era and her Volga Tatar heritage to life. Our conversation touched on the practicality and comfort of historical garments, debunking common misconceptions about corsetry, and the deeper connection these clothes offer to our ancestors and past cultures. Vasi's approach to living intentionally, through sustainable fashion and a deep respect for craftsmanship, offered a refreshing perspective on the significance of what we wear and how it connects us to history and identity.

Key highlights of the episode include:

• Vasi Birchwood's expertise in creating authentic historical fashion by hand, focusing on working-class Victorian and Volga Tatar garments.
• The practical benefits and comfort of wearing historical clothing, challenging modern perceptions of discomfort associated with it.
• The significance of historical attire in connecting with one's heritage and the broader cultural implications of fashion throughout history.
• The importance of sustainable fashion practices and the critique of fast fashion's impact on society and the environment.
• Vasi's personal journey into sewing and the therapeutic aspects of handcrafting garments.
• The role of clothing in living intentionally and fostering a deeper connection to the materials and processes involved in garment creation.

Visit Vasi's YouTube channel

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