A lot of people think that socially conscious brands are automatically more expensive. This is simply not true. In the last year I’ve begun to think more seriously about the clothes I buy. I wanted to make a change not only to help the environment, but also those socially or financially exploited by the fashion industry. Here are a few of the lessons I learned over the past year that helped me stay on track to building a more ethical wardrobe.
1. Buy vintage
Buying vintage is its own adventure since you never know what gems you might stumble upon. Not only are you being socially and environmentally conscious by helping reduce waste, you will also find the most unique pieces, sometimes worth a lot of cash (can you say vintage Chanel?) This is actually how entrepreneur Sophia Amoruso, CEO of NastyGal, got her start.
2. Shop responsible brands
Many clothing manufacturers are making the change to sustainable materials such as organic cotton, linen, and bamboo! Keep an eye out for tags mentioning such materials and don’t take my word for it, do your own research!
3.Quality over Quantity
Instead of buying yet another grey sweater, invest in one high quality piece that can work in multiple settings. Not only will this reduce the number of ditched forever 21 tank tops in landfills, but it will also save your bank account a few bucks too in the long run.
4. Learn the skills
Remember those little baggies that come with your clothes that we all throw away? You know the ones with extra buttons or some string? Use them! You can extend the life of your favorite cardigan by years by learning to make your own restorations. You also get a pretty awesome sense of purpose.
5. Learn to wash & store clothes properly
I know learning all those hieroglyphic like symbols on the tags seems impossible but you don’t even need to go that far. Simple adjustments to your weekly laundry routine can make a huge difference! Buy a lingerie wash bag or a bra protector and stop crying over torn lace! Air dry those cute sweaters to avoid making everything you own a crop top.
These tips not only save you money, but they help build a more socially, economically and environmentally sound wardrobe. So help do your part to make the world a better place. Go out there and get shopping!
