You can fight fast fashion and love the clothes you wear.
The fast fashion industry is overwhelmingly detrimental to our planet, second only to the fossil fuel industry pollution-wise. Plus, the social and ethical issues, especially for women, are incontrovertible. I recommend checking out Fashion Revolution for more details on the actualities of this industry. Fast fashion attempts to force individuals into keeping up with new ‘style’ expectations continually by creating 52 fashion seasons per year. While I recognize the harm of the fashion industry, I have to admit, I like clothes. Enjoying fashion and living sustainably doesn’t have to be mutually exclusive.
Here are a few things to consider:
(1) Reevaluate what ‘style’ means.
‘Style’ isn’t the latest trends sold by the fast fashion industry, but rather something you, as an individual, develop. Make sure you have a clear understanding of what you want from your clothing – your ‘style’ can still evolve but base it on your inspiration and/or changing lifestyle.
(2) Get attached to your clothes.
When you love a piece of clothing and feel good in it, you’ll be inclined to keep it and wear it often. We need to counter the impulsive tendencies to buy then disregard.
(3) Look inside your closet.
Most likely some clothes just need a little tender loving care (i.e. repurposing/repairing – learn to sow or find a great local tailor). Wash your clothes less, with cold water, and hang them to dry. Did you know that putting jeans in a dryer causes that annoying baggy effect? Less washing means less water, detergent, energy used, and less discharged microplastic fibres from synthetic materials.
(4) If you need a new piece – thrift.
Secondhand shopping is one of my all-time favorite activities. It requires a bit of effort but can be incredibly satisfying, especially when that new piece that fits perfectly appears before you. But remember, only about 15% of donated clothes are resold – the rest goes to landfills or are shipped overseas. Even with secondhand shopping, make sure you LOVE the piece.
(5) Finally, if you can/need to invest in a piece of clothing, look for sustainable and ethical options.
Check out the clothing standards being set, for example Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) and WRAP certification. Personally, I love @alternativeapparel, @livefashionable, and @wearpact – all of which are relatively affordable.
