Six easy steps to a more environmental wardrobe
What is sustainable Fashion?
August 30, 2018
How to avoid impulse buying
September 5, 2018 When we think of embracing sustainable fashion it can all seem a bit daunting. At the start of my journey I was worried about the consequences of my new lifestyle choice. Do I have to stop enjoying and following fashion? Can I only wear hemp and linen-type materials? Are there even fashionable eco brands?
The truth ist that there are many small and easy changes you can make. Small steps that collectively will make a big difference - not only ecologically but also socially.
Here are 6 tips how to start making more sustainable choices when it comes to fashion:
01
Take care of your clothes so they last longer
With the correct Know-how about how to take care of your clothes you can ensure to reduce your toll on the environment. If your clothes last longer, there is less need to buy new ones.
Check the instructions on the label to ensure the correct way of cleaning it, avoid dry cleaning, try switching to a 30 degree wash and air dry them instead of tumble drying.
02
Try Clothes Swapping or Second-hand
It doesn’t always have to be something new. There are great ways to shop sustainably without spending a fortune. Vintage/ Secondhand shops offer unique pieces with a small price tag without straining natural resources. Swapping is another great way to get your hands on new outfits without spending money.
No swap event in sight? Why not organise one yourself with a group of friends or colleagues?
03
Donate unwanted clothes
There are many different places such as local thrift stores, charities or clothing donation bins you can bring your garments to but make sure you do some research first. The good places will ensure that no clothes end up in landfill even if they can’t be resold. Most broken items or fabric scraps can be recycled and turned into something new.
04
Ask yourself the following questions before buying something new
Ever purchased an impulse buy knowing full that you probably won’t wear it very often? We’ve all been there!
Next time you go shopping ask yourself the following questions before heading to the cash desk: Do I already own something similar? Do I really need this? Find out more about this on my blog post about how to avoid impulse buying.
05
Be an informed & conscious shopper
When you go shopping remember that every purchase you make is also a statement - you don’t just support a company but also their philosophy. If you’re unsure about whether a brand is fair and sustainable ask them questions. If they are not transparent ask them (directly or via Social Media) : Where are the clothes made? Who makes them? Under what conditions?
Asking the right questions, and carefully researching the shops you choose to buy from, can help make sure you are doing your bit.
06
Consume less
Shopping sustainably and fair is good, buying less is better. We often own much more than we actually need. Why not spend some time creating new outfits with your current wardrobe instead of going shopping?