Shopping for clothes in a more environmentally friendly way is a topic that is becoming increasingly important as we become more aware of the impact of fast fashion on the environment. The first step in shopping more sustainably is to focus on what clothing you really need, not just what you want. Most people only wear about 20% of the clothing they own, so before hitting the stores, take a look at your wardrobe and identify what items you truly need to replace.
One of the biggest culprits in the fashion industry is fast fashion. Fast fashion is an approach to clothing design and production that emphasizes making fashion trends quickly and cheaply available to consumers. These clothes are often made from poor quality materials and wear out quickly, leading to them being discarded after only a few wears. Instead of opting for fast fashion, consider investing in high-quality materials like wool, cotton, hemp, and linen. These materials not only last longer but also wash better and hold their shape, reducing the need to constantly replace items in your wardrobe.
Overconsumption is another issue in the fashion industry, with people buying four times more clothing than they did in 2000. The constant churn of new clothing items being produced and marketed at low prices leads to a cycle of overconsumption. It’s important to resist the urge to buy something new every day and instead focus on purchasing items that you truly need and will get a lot of wear out of.
The environmental impact of fast fashion is staggering, with 92 million tons of clothing being dumped in landfills each year. Fast fashion also uses massive amounts of water and energy, draining our non-renewable resources. Making more sustainable choices when it comes to clothing can help reduce your impact on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry.
While sustainable brands may have a higher initial cost, they are often made with higher quality materials and are designed to last. Companies like Patagonia, Toad & Co, and Cotopaxi are popular choices for those looking to shop more sustainably. Investing in items from these brands is not only better for the environment but can also save you money in the long run, as you won’t have to constantly replace items that wear out quickly.
In conclusion, shopping for clothes in a more environmentally friendly way involves being mindful of what you truly need, avoiding fast fashion, and investing in high-quality, sustainable brands. By making more conscious choices when it comes to clothing, you can reduce your impact on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry.