When it comes to saving our planet from issues like resource depletion and increasing pollution levels, having good intentions is not always enough. You need to contribute to the cause by making certain changes in your lifestyle. Making sustainable fashion choices is a good start if you want to create a better world for everyone. And while it may seem challenging in the beginning, you can successfully create a sustainable wardrobe with the following steps:
1. Invest in Trans-seasonal Clothes:
Buying items you know you will wear throughout the year is wiser. It does not make sense to invest in a whole new wardrobe for winterwear every year when you live in a tropical country. Instead, consider spending a significant amount of money on clothing items that you can wear in different seasons. Timeless dresses, jeans, t-shirts, jackets, etc., are more sustainable fashion choices when compared to seasonal clothing. There are several online stores, like Adrift, where you can find a great collection of clothes for your sustainable wardrobe.
2. Choose Quality Over Quantity:
It is true that better quality, sustainable clothing items generally cost more than regular fast-fashion clothes. However, with some smart planning, you can buy sustainable pieces within your current budget. Sustainable clothes last longer than cheaper alternatives, and you will have to buy fewer clothing items per season when you choose to invest in high-quality items. This will help reduce your carbon footprint and save you money in the long run. Before you purchase a clothing item, look for certain factors such as price, materials, and comfort. This practice also helps you solve the storage problem that you might have over the years for buying unnecessary clothing items that you rarely wore.
3. Take Good Care of Your Clothes:
Higher-quality clothes usually last longer than the cheaper, less eco-friendly items. However, you must look after the clothes to boost their longevity. When you take good care of everything that is hanging in your wardrobe, you will have to replace them less often. From dry cleaning your suits and dresses to caring for your cashmere, you need to put extra effort into ensuring that they retain their conditions for a longer period. Invest in clothing care tools, such as a steamer and fabric shaver, to keep your clothes in good shape.
4. Learn How to Repair Your Clothes:
In order to become more sustainable, you should learn how to repair your clothes and accessories when they rip or break. If you do not have the time and energy to learn those skills, you can simply pay a professional to do it for you. The goal is to increase the lifespan of your clothing items rather than throw things out when they feel worn. Find a professional tailor you can rely on. A change in perspective about your used clothes can help you become more sustainable.
5. Donate the Clothes You No Longer Need:
If you have a number of unwanted clothing items that you no longer need, it is recommended that you donate them to a good cause. As long as your clothes are in good condition, they can help fulfil the needs of someone less privileged than you. You can connect with the local NGOs in your area to make such donations. You may also consider submitting your unwanted clothing items at specific stores that repurpose them to reduce the carbon footprint.
Conclusion
Switching to a sustainable lifestyle may take some time, but it gets easier each day. A lot of people still think that sustainable fashion lacks elegance and luxury, but that’s not true at all. It’s your approach towards each piece of clothing that matters the most. With more brands realising the importance of sustainability, you no longer have to compromise on your style by choosing eco-friendly options.
So go ahead, scan your wardrobe and donate something you no longer wear. By having an empty space in your closet, you can start your own sustainable clothing journey.
