Well, we have come to the point where I can’t hold my tongue anymore. if you are still buying clothes recklessly, without any thought behind where you’re buying, and who you’re buying from, I am coming to you as a friend to say, you’re selfish. I am here to inform you so that you can step to the other side, the better side, where people aren’t like, dying and being enslaved for stupid things like a t-shirt.
I know the idea that clothes could have any substance other than covering your body is mind boggling to some, but here we are in 2020, unlearning toxic behavior in hopes of creating a better future. So if you’re wondering ‘what even is sustainable fashion?’ let me break it down. Sustainability simply means to endure and maintain. Sustainable fashion is clothes that are mindful of the environment and humanity. In order to endure and maintain our Earth, we have to consider the effects of the clothes we are buying and wearing. Fast fashion is one of the leading causes of why the sustainable fashion initiative is so important. It is the second largest consumer of the worlds water supply and one reason why modern slavery and child labor exist in this industry. While some fast fashion brands, (ex., H&M, Zara, Topshop) have become more transparent on their operations, this is only one step to be used as a tool for change in the fashion industry. With transparency should come accountability, which should eventually force change. Some brands on the other hand (ex., Fashion Nova, Boohoo, Shein, Pretty Little Thing) have neglected to share any information about the practices of their company in terms of gender equality, forced labor, child labor, waste, deforestation, water, and pollution.
With this knowledge comes great responsibility. In 2018, I pledged to only shop sustainably. And let me tell you, it is easier said than done. However, I am here to make sure my lack of knowledge isn’t yours. So here are my tips to help you start your sustainable journey.
Shop Vintage
Vintage shopping is one way to be sustainable and have a lot of fun. Not knowing what I will find gives me the biggest adrenaline rush. My favorite part is that the items already have a story and you get to add to it. It sounds very simpy but trust me you will feel the same way. Shopping vintage also builds a closer relationship to you and your garments because the likelihood of finding the same item again is slim.
Shop Less
It is important to ask yourself questions when you’re looking to buy an item. Does it add value to your wardrobe? Will you want it a year from now? Is it made responsibly? How often will you wear the item? I would like to say it gets easier to leave garments that you really love behind, but it doesn’t. It helps to have an accountability partner that will be able to be the voice of reason when shopping. Caution! This person may become your enemy due to their obvious hatred of seeing you get what you want.
Upcycle
Repurposing your clothes is another way to build a close relationship with your garments. Whether it be a shirt that you cropped, a hoodie that you bleach dyed, jeans that you cut yourself, or a t-shirt you turned into a pillow case, when you make it, it holds more value. It also reduces the waste of clothes by turning something that may be old or damaged into something new.
Donate/Consign
Sometimes you just aren’t in love with a garment anymore, instead of throwing it out, you can donate it to a good cause, or consign it and get some money for your item. Americans throw away tons of clothes every year. It is one of the reasons why carbon emissions are so high. Even if your clothes are torn or unable to be worn, companies like Goodwill, The Salvation Army, and many more will recycle the textiles for you. So there is literally no excuse for clothes to go in the trash.
Rent Garments
Sometimes things come up and you have no other option but to get something new. Whether it be for a wedding you have to attend, or you are doing a photoshoot and want to wear something that does not fit into your average wardrobe. This is an opportune time to rent something that you can return later. This option eliminates waste and gives you something new.
Quality over Quantity
When you buy designer goods it seems like you aren’t getting enough bang for your buck. But its quite the contrary. When you buy quality, the items are created to last longer which saves you money in the long haul. You wont have to buy a new pair of jeans every fall because the jeans you got 3 years ago still look brand new. Its still important to make sure the items you are buying meet the criteria of your shop less questionnaire so your designer shopping doesn’t become excessive.
Shop Clean
Shopping clean is the most important aspect of being a sustainable shopper. Knowing what brands are really selling is the true power we hold as consumers. Research and understand if brands are being transparent in their actions. Are they paying employees fairly, or at all? Are they going against child labor laws? Are employees in propitious work environments? Is there any abuse or manipulation in the workplace? These questions are all imperative when considering who you are shopping with. Fashion Revolutions Transparency index is a great way to keep track of what brands are doing.
Beware of Greenwashing
Greenwashing is when a company is posing as if they are environmentally conscious when they aren’t. So again, it is important to do research and ask questions. It helps to look for numbers and stats on what companies are doing for the environment rather than what they say so you wont be mislead. Check for certifications that verify the claims that brands are making. The more you know the less likely you are to fall victim of a brands greenwashing.
If you take anything from this, please research and learn about the unhealthy conditions that many people face while working for fast fashion brands. They suffer abuse, little to no pay at all, and children are being used to create garments and textiles at very young ages. This is a pressing issue in all areas of the world and in order to see it end we have to spread awareness. Here are some petitions you can sign on Change.org, and the Greater good
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