Photo: Pexels/Ron Lach
Did you know that the fashion industry is the second most polluting industry in the world? It’s true! The fashion industry is responsible for 10% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions – and that number is only rising.
As consumers, we have the power to demand change from the fashion industry. By making more sustainable choices, we can help reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
So, what exactly is sustainable fashion? Sustainable fashion is clothing that is produced in a way that minimizes environmental damage and maximizes social good. It is made from sustainable materials, such as organic cotton or recycled polyester, and is produced in a way that is ethical and fair to workers.
If you’re interested in buying sustainable fashion, then this guide is for you! Keep reading to learn about the benefits of sustainable fashion and how to make sure you are buying a piece of clothing that is truly sustainable.
What is sustainable fashion?
With the current state of the environment, it’s more important than ever to make sure that the fashion industry is sustainable. Sustainable fashion is defined as “an approach to the design, sourcing, manufacture, and delivery of clothing that minimizes the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry.”
The benefits of sustainable fashion are twofold – it reduces the negative impact of the fashion industry on the environment, and it also supports more ethical working conditions for those who are involved in the manufacturing process.
Stella McCartney Floral-print crepe midi dress
The benefits of buying sustainable fashion
Sustainable fashion is a term used to describe clothing that is made from environmentally-friendly materials and produced in a way that is not harmful to the environment. Sustainable fashion is becoming increasingly popular as more people become aware of the negative impact the fashion industry has on the planet.
There are many reasons to buy sustainable fashion. For one, sustainable fashion is often made from natural materials that are better for the environment. Additionally, sustainable fashion is usually produced in a way that uses less water and energy and creates less pollution. This means that buying sustainable fashion supports companies that are working to make a positive impact on the environment.
While sustainable fashion can be more expensive than traditional fashion, the benefits of buying sustainable fashion are worth the extra cost. Not only are you helping to protect the environment, but you are also supporting businesses that are working to make a difference.
Eugenia Denim Midi Dress by Reformation
How to buy sustainable fashion
Most people want to do their part to help the environment, but they may not know how to start with sustainable fashion. “Sustainable fashion” is fashion that is made in a way that is environmentally and socially responsible. This means that the clothes are made from sustainable materials, they are ethically produced, and they help to support the planet.
There are a few things to keep in mind when you are shopping for sustainable fashion. All you need to start looking for clothing made from sustainable materials like organic cotton or bamboo. Make sure that the clothing is ethically produced, meaning the workers who made the clothes were treated fairly and paid a livable wage. Also, you can look for brands that give back to the planet, such as those that use recycled materials or who support environmental causes.
With a little research, you can find sustainable fashion that is both stylish and eco-friendly. Here are some tips on how to start incorporating sustainable fashion into your wardrobe:
-
Invest in quality pieces that will last a long time:
Instead of buying cheaply-made fast fashion pieces that will fall apart after a few wears, invest in quality clothes that are made to last. This will not only save you money in the long run, but it will also help reduce the amount of waste in the fashion industry.
-
Shop from sustainable brands:
There are now many brands that are dedicated to sustainable fashion. Look for brands that use sustainable materials, promote ethical production practices, and support environmental causes.
-
Buy secondhand:
Secondhand shopping is a great way to reduce waste since you are giving clothes a second life. You can find some great deals and unique items when you shop at thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like Poshmark or ThredUp.
-
Rent clothing:
Instead of buying new clothes for special occasions, consider renting clothing. There are now many rental services that offer designer clothing for a fraction of the cost of buying.
-
Take care of your clothes:
Properly caring for your clothes can extend their lifespan. Follow the care instructions on the labels and consider using eco-friendly laundry products.
Stella McCartney + NET SUSTAIN organic denim mini dress
What to look for when buying sustainable fashion
When it comes to fashion, there are a lot of things to consider – from style and trends to price and comfort. But if you’re looking to buy sustainable fashion, there are a few extra things you’ll need to keep in mind. Here are a few things to look for when buying sustainable fashion:
1. Look for natural materials
Sustainable fashion is all about using materials that are good for the environment. So look for items made from natural materials like organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, and wool.
2. Look for fair trade-certified brands
When you buy fair trade-certified fashion, you can be sure that the workers who made your clothes were paid a fair wage and treated well.
3. Look for recycled materials
Sustainable fashion brands often use recycled materials in their clothing. So look for items made from recycled plastic, recycled denim, or recycled polyester.
4. Look for locally-made clothing
Supporting local brands helps reduce the carbon footprint of the fashion industry. Plus, your money will help to stimulate the local economy.
5. Look for brands with sustainable production practices
This means looking for brands that prioritize reducing their environmental impact during the production process. This can include using eco-friendly dyes, reducing water usage, and minimizing waste.
6. Look for clothing that is designed to last
Sustainable fashion is all about investing in high-quality pieces that can be worn for years to come. So avoid fast fashion trends and look for classic styles that won’t go out of fashion.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can make sure that the fashion choices you make are not only stylish but also ethical and sustainable.
The Reformation Frankie Silk Dress
The top sustainable fashion brands
As the world becomes increasingly aware of the need for sustainability, it’s no doubt many fashion brands are jumping on the bandwagon and incorporating sustainable practices into their business models. From using recycled materials to reducing water consumption, these brands are leading the way in a sustainable fashion.
Here are some of the top sustainable fashion brands to keep an eye on:
1. Reformation
2. Stella McCartney
3. Patagonia
4. Everlane
5. NKWO
6. Nisolo
7. Eileen Fisher
8. Athleta
9. Gap
10. Levi’s
When shopping for fashion, always remember to consider the future. Look for sustainable materials, consider the manufacturing process, and think about how long the piece will last. By investing in sustainable fashion, you are supporting the future of the industry.
