We all do it. We all love it. But can making small changes to our retail therapy fix change the fashion industry for good? Well, the jury is officially in! Becoming a more conscious shopper is easier than one might think.
We’re on a mission to Change The Norm. Inciting visions of tyre-lined sandals and dresses weaved from sacks of potatoes, it’s no secret that many people think of sustainable fashion as a fast-track route to unstylish territory. Our goal? To show readers that keeping our planet green and getting our hands on ‘fits straight off the runway can go hand in hand.
Now, that’s not to say that snapping up your sustainably sourced joggers will give a new lease of life to the polar bear population and revitalise rainforests across the globe in one purchase, but keeping planet Earth green requires a joint effort, joining forces as a species to transform supply and demand. Why not consider these small steps?
Sharing is caring! Once you have enjoyed your garment, give it a second life. Whether you have friends who would revel in your hand-me-downs, you want to get creative with a DIY escapade, or perhaps you’d prefer to get in a good deed by heading to the nearest charity shop, putting a stop to the endless stream of garments making their way to pollution-causing landfills is a step we can all make towards a greener Earth.
Who are you supporting? We all love getting in on the latest trends with a new outfit to showcase to the world, but doing your research before pressing the ‘buy now!’ button will ensure you’re never left scathed. What do you know about your favourite brand’s ethics? Are they loud about empowerment, but quiet about their factories? Where does the production line begin? Conscious consumerism is all about being proactive, seeking out answers.
Check the materials. When it comes to sustainability, staying away from oil-packed cotton, polyester and nylon will help do your bit for the climate. From pesticide-shunning organic cotton and natural linen to chemical-free bamboo and hemp, there is a multitude of velvety soft fabrics that we can enjoy guilt-free.
Where has it come from? The country-of-origin acts as an indicator of the journey your garment went through before it landed in your hands. With poor safety guidelines rife in many regions of the world, the country on your label will give you a hint as to the environment it was made in, as well as the number of miles (and the impact on the climate!) it travelled to get to you.