Sustainability Never Goes Out of Style
When you need a quick pick-me-up, shopping is often the best medicine. It can be easy to order something online when you get the sudden urge, but in desperate times, you often don’t think of the repercussions of a simple click. Sustainable shopping isn’t as hard as you might think, and there are a multitude of ways you can shop for your wardrobe in more environmentally-friendly ways. Here’s what you should know and some simple tips to follow!
Tip #1: Be more conscious of where you shop.
Cheap online stores can be appealing, especially when you find exactly what you want at a cheap price. However, thrift and vintage stores are where you can find some of the best, higher-quality pieces for a cheaper price. Another advantage is that thrift store finds are also more unique and one-of-a-kind. There are also a ton of brands out there that support environmental efforts and are conscious with how they produce their clothes. If you need help finding more sustainable brands, check out another garb article!
Tip #2: Consider saving and spending more money on a few higher-quality items that will last you longer.
Fast fashion is growing, and its appeal is understandable. However, these cheap items may only last you a few solid wears. When you think about some of the favorite items you own, I can bet that most of them were higher quality or not from fast-fashion stores. Cheaper items simply don’t last as long, and are often quick-trends that soon go out of style. When you don’t buy these cheaper items, you won’t be investing as much money in the fast-fashion industry, and you’ll be lessening your carbon footprint by buying less overall!
Tip 3: Take care of your clothes.
Not putting your clothes in the dryer will save a ton of energy, and it will also be better for your clothes. Clothes dryers use up almost as much energy as all of your household electronic devices combined. Putting fewer clothes in the wash will allow you to do fewer, more infrequent cycles, which will save a ton of energy in the long run. Also, when you take better care of the pieces you love, you won’t have to throw them away as often and buy new things! It’ll keeps your clothes looking their best for longer.
Tip 4: Look out for BlueSign certified brands.
Companies get BlueSign certification when chemicals aren’t released while their clothes are being produced. These chemicals can have many negative effects; particularly on ocean animals, factory workers who produce them, and even the people who wear those clothes. Overall, BlueSign certification means the brand is avoiding all of this, and will be better for you and the world around you.
Tip 5: Pay attention to materials!
We often look at the tag on the top of the shirt to check for sizes, but there is so much information hidden on that label. Organic cotton means that no harmful chemicals are used in the production of the item. Recycled polyester and hemp are also great, because they can be reused and very sustainable to grow. If your clothing item somehow ends up in a donation bin or landfill, you’ll know it won’t harm the environment.
Tip #6: Be mindful when getting rid of old clothes.
Some of the best ways to get rid of clothes are to give them another life! Sell them to friends or on a thrifting app. Some of my favorites include Poshmark, Depop, and eBay. You’ll make some quick money and allow someone else to rock the same piece. You can also donate your clothes to local stores like Buffalo Exchange, Goodwill, or Plato’s closet. If you’re feeling generous, you can also just give them to siblings or friends. However you do it, just ensure you’re maximizing the lifespan of your items.
I hope this opened your mind to the many simple ways you can incorporate sustainability into your shopping practices. These tips and tricks can make a huge difference in the long run, and really aren’t as hard as people think. Happy (sustainable) shopping!
Words by Alisha Mirapuri
Illustrations by Rebecca Wong