5 Easy Ways to Build a Sustainable Wardrobe That’s Stylish and Planet-Friendly

Sustainable fashion is more than just a vision; it is an idea that has become a movement. It falls to us, the consumers, to help reshape the fashion industry by making conscious choices that are beneficial for both the planet and our sense of style. But let's be honest–creating a sustainable wardrobe almost seems like a conclusion. Where does one even start? Great news! Here are five recommended, simple, and actionable tips to create a wardrobe that is chic, eco-conscious, and made to last.

1. Buy Less, Choose Better

We can probably all relate to standing in front of the full closet of clothes, thinking, "I have nothing to wear!" The reality is that most of us own more clothing than we typically need. The first step toward becoming sustainable is to change your mentality from quantity to quality.

• Invest in Timeless Pieces — Place more importance on obtaining key pieces like a tailored blazer, good denim, or a go-to black dress, instead of keeping up with the latest trend. These pieces will never go out of style and you will wear them for years to come.

• View Purchases as Investments: A single quality handbag or coat may seem expensive upfront but will last through and replace multiple cheap fast fashion items. The added benefit of not needing to replace the item multiple times is less waste over time.

• Mindful Shopping: Ask yourself before you purchase: "Do I really love this piece? Will I wear it at least 30 times?" If the answer is no, leave it on the rack.

With this approach to your closet, you will not only save money in the long run, but also contribute less to the wasteful consumption of fast fashion.

2. Accept Apparel with History

Who says a sustainable closet can’t be fun? Shopping second-hand is like going treasure hunting—you never know what one-of-a-kind gems you will find.

• Thrift Stores and Consignment Stores: Thrift stores are the goldmine when it comes to finding special pieces at an affordable price!

• Online: Online platforms like Poshmark, Depop, and Vestiaire Collective have made it easier than ever to buy (and sell!) pre-owned clothing without leaving home!

• Organizing Clothing Swaps: Get together with some friends and host a “swishing” clothing swap party, where all guests bring clothing items they do not want anymore, and the swap for something ‘new’ is an effective, sustainable option too.

Buying second-hand not only gives new life to clothing, but it also reduces the demand for new clothing production, saves money in your pocket, and is good for the earth!

3. Familiarize Yourself with Fabrics

The fabrics you select significantly influence the sustainability of your garments. Some fabrics are resource-intensive and damaging to people and the planet, while others are less so.

• Choose Natural Fibers: Keep an eye out for organic cotton, linen, hemp, or animal-based fabrics that are produced ethically. Natural fabrics are often biodegradable, and generally require a lower chemical use during the production process.

• Look for Innovative Materials: Brands are reproducing fabrics from recycled ocean plastics or using alternative leathers made from pineapple fibers.

• Avoid Synthetics: While polyester and nylon may be inexpensive and durable, they shed microplastics into waterways when washed. If you are purchasing synthetics, try to purchase recycled versions where available. Understanding your fabrics allows you to purchase clothing more aligned to your values.

4. Care for Your Existing Clothes

Fast fashion operates on disposability—your closet does not have to! When you take the proper care of your clothes, it can extend the life of your clothes notably. Know How to Repair: Missing a button or a small rip doesn’t mean it’s time to toss it. Knowing how to repair simple garments can make a leisure top feel brand new again.

• Get Clothes Altered: A properly fitted garment looks better and feels comfier as well. It can also give new life to an old garment that is no longer trendy.

• Refurbish Old Clothes: Get creative! Old worn out pair of jeans can be made into shorts, or an oversized shirt can be turned into a trendy crop top.

• Wash Wisely: Only wash clothes when necessary, if possible, always wash in cold water, and air-dry your garments when you are able to. This will keep them from wearing-and-tearing in the wash, and will save energy as well.

Maintaining and caring for your existing clothing is one of the best things you can do for your personal style and for the planet.

5. Mindfully Sourced with Sustainable Brands

If you’re picking up a new item, be sure it aligns with your sustainability goals by supporting brands that care about ethical practices.

Research before you buy: Similar to what you did for your laundry detergent and/or toiletries, look for certifications that indicate something like Fair Trade or GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) that guarantee ethical produced.

Support brands who hold themselves accountable: If a brand openly shares their supply chain, they are more likely a responsible brand. Accountability builds trust.

Support local designers: Sourcing local designers and small levels of production often means more sustainable, lower carbon footprint, one of a kind products and choose a designed label to tell the story of the product.

Look for circular fashion: Many brands are beginning to take back products they sell or sell products that are made from recycled materials—ideal for sustainable consumers. When you support brands that care about the impact they make in the world, you are voting with your dollar for a better future.

Closing Thoughts: Create Stylish Sustainability

Having a sustainable wardrobe does not mean you need to sacrifice style—you need to reshape, reshape your understanding of what style can and should mean for you. With a sustainable wardrobe you are collecting pieces that represent you, while also caring for the planet we all inhabit. The witchery? Each small act counts. You can start by thrifting some more or rather than throwing that favorite sweater out when it rips, sew it up.

All of these imperfections propel us further along a journey toward sustainable living. Please, open that closet up and start today. Fashion is and has always been an expression of you and now it can be an expression of something bigger than yourself. Sustainable style isn’t just cool—its timeless.

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