Let’s talk sustainable fashion for a minute. You may not have the budget to buy everything from an ethical fashion brand or the time to research working conditions, but you probably already do a few things that help our planet and its people be a little healthier. Let’s put down the “shoulds” and celebrate these five sustainable habits that may already be a part of your life.
- Shop Secondhand
Do you shop your local thrift store, peruse online vendors like Thred Up or eBay, or enjoy clothing swaps with friends? By choosing an item that has already been manufactured, purchased, and worn rather than buying something new, you are averting the environmental impact of a newly manufactured piece of clothing. - Purchase Well
Would you rather buy a brand that lasts, or clothing that falls apart? If you are on a strict budget, chances are you know which brands offer clothing of decent quality and which brands fall apart within two months. When you choose the best quality available within your budget and invest in a wardrobe piece you can wear again and again, you’re making a sustainable choice. - Stick to the Basics
Do you try to coordinate items within your closet and create several outfits from a few key pieces? If you tend to stick with a small selection of basics as the foundation for your closet instead of stuffing your wardrobe with fast fashion hauls, you may have the minimalist style of a sustainable fashionista. (And nobody has to know that it’s because you have no time to shop.) - Patch and Mend
Ever sewn a button back onto a shirt or had a treasured item repaired? Congratulations, world changer! You are saying no to a throw-away economy, keeping clothing out of landfills, and prolonging the useful life of something someone else made. - Donate Wisely
Are you a wardrobe purger? If you check with local organizations and donate according to their needs instead of dumping your donations without thought, then you may be helping your community while preventing cast-off clothing from inundating other countries. (Looking for a place to start on this one? See if a homeless shelter needs coats or if the local hospital has a clothing closet for patients.)
Many of the habits we develop to save money or time also contribute to a happier planet. But remember, no matter your circumstances or resources, the best sustainable habit is doing your best with what you have today.
