On one hand fashion can be accused of being superficial and frivolous, an industry of style and excess without substance, on the other there is a much deeper, more profound engagement with clothing that is seen across all eras and all cultures. As Sandy Black said, at the recent launch event for her new book, "adornment has always been part of the human condition." We also must not forget the enormity of the industry which incorporates millions of workers all over the world, from textile crop farmers, textile producers, dyers, garment designers and producers, and retailers. According to Sandy there are 2.7 million people working in clot...
