Fashion trends come and go, but sustainable style is here to stay. In the past decade, eco-friendly fashion choices for women have become more accessible than ever. If you’re wondering how you can update your wardrobe without sacrificing your sustainability goals, read on for an overview of the best sustainable style choices for the fashionable female!
1. Rewriting the Rules of Fast Fashion
Sustainable fashion disrupts traditional industry approach
The fast fashion industry is currently a major contributor to global waste, pollution and carbon emissions. But fashion brands, designers and consumers are rethinking the rules of fashion and pushing for more sustainable approaches.
Research shows that when given the option, shoppers tend to choose eco-friendly alternatives such as organic materials, recycled fibres or natural dyes. Many trend-conscious fashion labels now carry a selection of sustainably produced items, with many aiming for entirely sustainable collections.
- Swapping disposable for durable
- Using eco-friendly materials
- Diversifying production methods
The focus on creating sustainable fashion isn’t only sparked by demand from conscious consumers. Brands inlcuding H&M, Levi’s and Adidas have all committed to encourage and incentivise sustainable production and consumption, whether it be by aiming to reduce their consumption of water, energy and chemicals or by taking advantage of emerging sustainable materials.
Sustainable fashion remains easily out of reach for many shoppers, however, as the cost of production and materials is often more expensive than traditional alternatives. As a movement that’s still in its infancy, many more steps need to be taken before we can halt the damaging effects of the fast fashion industry.
2. A New Age of Sustainable Style
The world is quickly shaking off traditions of the old age and ushering in an era of progress and innovation. When it comes to sustainable style, the changes are vast.
In the past, sustainability was often unreachable or not considered. Now, it is quickly becoming the norm. Brands are shifting their production methods, prioritizing eco-friendly materials, and going to great lengths to be less harmful for the planet.
- Biodegradable & Recycled Fabrics – Instead of relying on traditional materials, many brands are choosing to use fabrics made from materials that won’t last forever in our landfills. Natural fibers, like hemp and bamboo, can be turned into fabrics that are both comfortable and ethical. Recycled fabrics are also popular, giving them a second life in the form of clothing.
- Sustainable Dyes – Traditional synthetic dyes can be very harmful to the environment. But now, there are plenty of options that help reduce and/or eliminate the impacts of dyeing fabric. From plant-based dyes to renewable energy sources, the clothing industry has begun to embrace alternative options, not only making for safer products, but also more unique and interesting colors.
- Green Manufacturing Practices – It is not only the fabric and dyes that are important when considering the impact of fashion on the environment. The process of creating and producing garments must also be taken into consideration. There are many ways to lessen our environmental footprint, such as reducing water usage in production, choosing renewable energy sources, and investing in energy efficient technology.
The fashion industry is one of the most powerful industries in the world. It is clear that with its new rise of sustainable style, it is becoming much more environmentally conscious. The future of fashion is a brighter, more sustainable one – and it is an exciting change that we will all have the pleasure to watch!
3. Crafting an Ethical Closet: Eco-Friendly Tips for Women
If you’re a fashionista looking for ways to support the environment, then crafting an ethical closet is a great way to start. By making small changes to how you shop and dress, you can make a huge impact on the planet. Here are some eco-friendly tips to help you get started:
Buy less & buy preloved. As the fashion industry is notorious for its negative impact on the environment, an easy way to reduce your impact is to buy less and look to purchase preloved items. Look for items with minimal packaging, browse thrift stores to give garments a second life and invest in quality fabric made with eco-friendly fibres.
Support ethical fashion brands. Buying from ethical fashion brands is a great way to be stylish and sustainable. Look for brands that prioritize sustainability in their manufacturing and production processes. Invest in those that use eco-friendly materials, practice fair labour rights and prioritize circular fashion practices.
Embrace a slow fashion mindset. Slow fashion encourages intentional shopping by emphasizing on quality over quantity. Aim to purchase sustainable fashion pieces, get inspired by seasonal trends and take the extra time to care for your garments. Some of the simple slow fashion tips include:
– Re-design, repair and reuse existing clothes.
– Rethink trends to take part in timeless fashion.
– Invest in quality garments designed to last.
By following these tips, you can create an eco-friendly wardrobe of your dreams. Play your part in helping reduce the fashion industry’s environmental footprint and look stunning while you do it!
4. Reimagining the Impact of Our Wardrobes
As the way we dress continues to evolve, it is essential to consider the impact of our wardrobes on the world around us. From the materials we use to put our clothing together, to the way we store them from season to season, to the matter of ordering sustainable fashion, the decisions we make in building and maintaining our wardrobes have a larger effect beyond just the way we look.
Make the switch to eco-friendly materials. The materials you choose for clothing can have an enormous effect. Consider conventional fabrics like polyester that are made with pollutants created from diesel and petroleum-based products. In comparison, sustainable materials such as linen, hemp, and organic cotton reduce the chemicals used in production, and actually become softer over time. Moreover, natural fabrics are biodegradable, making them an attractive alternative when considering how to dress for the planet.
- Opt for natural materials like linen, hemp and organic cotton
- Chemically-synthesized fabrics for a “fast fashion” look can be toxic
- Eco-friendly clothing is being produced in an increasing amount of shapes and sizes
Organize your wardrobe with longevity in mind. You can be mindful of the environment and still make sure your clothing is practical and easy to store. Investing in durable storage solutions help to keep your garments in good condition for longer and avoid the need to constantly purchase replacements. The benefits of organizing your wardrobe with longevity in mind includes reducing clutter and maintaining your garments with greater ease.
- Invest in quality, durable storage solutions
- Keep a record of what you already own to avoid replacing items unnecessarily
- Small alterations like mending a hem or patching a hole can help to keep items in use over a longer period
Remember that sustainable fashion choices also create a greater impact beyond your wardrobe. Every piece you choose to buy can become a commitment to a more eco-friendly and sustainable future. Taking the plunge into sustainable and conscious fashion has so many benefits, so why not start now? In its own way, every impact, no matter how small can help save our planet for a better tomorrow.