4 steps to a more conscious wardrobe
It’s no secret that the fashion industry is a harmful one. From the pollution generated by the textile industry, to the working conditions in third-world garment production facilities, it's clear the rise of fast-fashion has had a damaging effect on our world. But it doesn’t have to be like this, with just a few smart changes to our shopping habits we can all be closer to a conscious wardrobe.
Research ethical brands
Owning clothes that are both beautiful and ethically conscious doesn't have to be mutually exclusive. In fact, more and more, brands are taking steps to limit their impact on the environment by choosing less harmful fabrics and manufacturing their clothes responsibly. Local labels like Maggie Marilyn, KOWTOW or Rachel Mills are pioneers in this space, just like Alyssa Lloyd they put sustainability, not profits, at the forefront of their business.
For more information on how some of your favourite brands stack up, checkout the Tearfund Ethical Fashion Guide. And for more resources on fashion’s impact on the environment, visit fashionrevolution.org.
Buy thoughtfully
Ever looked into the dark depths of your closet and declared “I have nothing to wear,” despite the fact that your wardrobe is literally bursting at the seams? Haven’t we all. But never fear this modern problem is a simple one to solve, and it all comes down to making smart choices about how you shop. Next time you’re out shopping, or clearing out your wardrobe, spend some time thinking about your own personal style and the items you feel beautiful in. Use this to guide your future purchases.
Being more thoughtful about the items you buy can have a profound impact on your wardrobe. While a capsule wardrobe might be extreme for some, having a core set of high quality staples in flattering and complementary colours and styles is the perfect foundation for a wardrobe you can be proud of.
Spend more, or shop second hand
Let's face it, owning clothes that will last is expensive. But there’s nothing better that supporting brands who value craftsmanship and high quality design. So while it's tempting to buy regularly from fast-fashion stores, a more rewarding strategy is to save for a little longer and buy one or two items you can treasure. Instead of five or six new things that will fall apart before the next season rolls around! It’s called ethical consumption and it means not only will you be buying less, you’ll be buying smarter.
If designer clothes are still out of reach, consider shopping second hand. There are so many gems to be found at your local second hand shop like wool coats, cashmere sweaters and pre-loved denim for a fraction of its original price. Check out your local Mercy Hospice, Savemart or designer second hand shops like Recycle Boutique, Tatty’s and Crushes.
Dispose responsibly
Speaking of second hand shops, don’t forget about these stores when it’s time to do the inevitable wardrobe cull. No matter how thoughtful your wardrobe, there will come a time when you’re ready to part with some of your clothes. Taking your garments to a second hand store is a great way to give them a new lease of life, just make sure they’re in good condition and have been cleaned.
As for items that are too worn to be donated, they don’t have to end up in the bin! Did you know natural fibres like cotton, wool, linen and tencel can be composted as a way to divert them from landfill? And a new use can be found for many synthetic fibres - try ripping them up and using them to fill cushions, or upcycling.
Building a wardrobe you’re proud of that doesn’t cost the earth, doesn’t have to be hard. By simply buying thoughtfully from ethical brands we can all do our bit to make in impact on the global fashion industry.