Most people think they are being environmentally conscious after recycling their bottles or buying organic, but when it comes to fashion, do people really care? Limiting choices, not going trendy, having a timeless closet, and not shopping from your go-to brand is something people don't settle for. But trust us, a sustainable wardrobe impacts our environment greatly, and every penny counts.
Some people even care about going sustainable but have no idea how to build a sustainable wardrobe from scratch.
The idea of switching to a sustainable wardrobe might be daunting, but with the right tips and guidelines, it's possible and easier than you think.
Here are some tips that can help you to switch to a sustainable wardrobe. Just remember, it's all about baby steps.
1. Monochromes Save Your Day
A floral tee can go well with specific pants but imagine the endless possibilities you can have with a black tee. Pair it with cargo pants, denim, a skirt, a pullover, or anything you like, and it will never go wrong.
Monochromes are a great way to keep your wardrobe sustainable. Colours like white, black, beige, and nude complement every season while giving you numerous options to style in a unique way.
2. No November Shopping
Are you still fans of the mantra' shop till you drop'? It's time to drop this mantra out of your life. November sales are a card that fast fashion brands play to fill their pockets. It's time to switch to mindful shopping to positively impact the environment.
A great way is to challenge yourself and reward your favourite luxury gift to keep the intrinsic motivation going. Just make sure the luxury item you pick comes from a sustainable brand.
3. Shop Sustainable
Fast fashion may offer you more stylish clothes at cheap rates, but ask yourself: Is the cost worth seeing the landfills?
It's time to switch from the brands adding more to the wastage. Many fashion lines, especially those just starting, are all contributing to the noble cause. They use linen, hemp, pure cotton, and jersey to encourage eco-friendly fashion and eliminate the waste footprint.
By purchasing from these brands, you're spending your hard earned cash on something 100% recyclable and saving the planet from carbon waste.
4. Befriend the Thrift Store
Are you someone who is hesitant to visit thrift stores? Thrift stores can be a goldmine, and you are sure to land on a few goods or even designer pieces at a fraction of their original cost.
Plus, buying used means keeping items out of landfills and reducing the resources needed to produce new clothing.
5. Buy Quality Over Quantity
We all love clothes almost falling out of our wardrobe. The sight gives pleasure to the eyes that we have ample silhouettes for every occasion. But have you ever wondered how many clothes you actually wear you got from a sale? You just bought it because it had a tag 75% off hanging on it.
Instead of buying lots of cheap clothes that will fall apart after a few washes, focus on finding one or two quality items that will last longer and look better over time. A good rule of thumb is that if it's made well, you'll be able to wear it for years without having to replace it — which makes it more sustainable than buying cheap items every season!
6. 5 R's are Your Savior
"Reduce, Repair, Recycle, Repurpose and Re-imagine."
Memorize these words and every time you think of buying new clothes or throwing away the old ones, recall these in your head - now decide what to do.
If your clothes are torn, repair them. If you want something new in your wardrobe, give your clothes a new purpose and donate them to where they are most needed. You can visit fundraisers online that even accept clothes for refugees or the homeless. Trying to re-imagine your favourite tee in something exciting? Make a tote bag, a chewable dog toy, or even a cleaning rag would do fine.
Anything from the 5 R's is better than throwing the clothes in landfills.
7. Do Your Homework
It's good to make an informed decision to contribute your part to sustainable clothing. Shop from brands that are 100% sustainable. Brands using organic fabric and ethically sourcing their raw materials are your go-to places next time you step out to shop.
With social media around, it's easy to stay informed. You may find it a little arduous initially, but after a while, you will already be aware of the handful of brands that will align with your values.
8. Classic or Less?
Are you someone who needs a change in your life more often? Or are you happy going vintage? Whatever it is — knowing your type can help you make a mindful approach.
You can either buy less to change clothing every year, or you can invest more in vintage and have them in your closets for a lifetime.
9. Let's Have Some Rules
It's weird for a shopaholic to think of rules. But remember, rules are for the guidance of wise men. Be mindful, shop sustainably, recycle or repair whenever you can, set a budget, and most importantly, ask yourself one question - do I need this article in my wardrobe? If the answer is yes, then ask yourself why. And whether it's worth it or not.
Sustainable fashion is nothing but a combination of ethics and aesthetics. It helps you play your part in helping Mother Earth survive and preserve the resources for future generations.
Just as mindful and healthy eating is good for your body, the same sustainable clothing does for the environment.
Looking for a place to find all sustainable brands under one roof? SONI London is a one-stop shop to shop sustainable Ukrainian designers in the UK and Europe. The platform has a cause to support the Ukrainian war victims while filling the gap between luxury fashion and the mass market in the UK at the same time.
Be mindful, be socially conscious, be glowing!