You’ve likely heard plenty of ways to be more sustainable at home. You might switch to solar panels or eat a vegan diet. But what about your wardrobe?
It turns out that both fashionable and responsible clothing choices exist — and you don’t have to wear cork sandals. Here are 10 options for a sustainable closet.
1. Look for Eco-Friendly Brands
The best way to change your habits will be to find eco-friendly brands. If you don’t know where to shop, you’ll never be able to build a better wardrobe. Luckily, you can do a quick online search to find ethical and sustainable brands that sell everything from shoes to hats. Bookmark your favorites so that you can access them later.
2. Buy Durable Materials
If you’ve ever bought from stores like Forever 21 or H&M, you know you can walk away with several items for under $25. These shops sell inexpensive clothes made from cheap materials so that they can keep up with trends. It’s better to spend your hard-earned money elsewhere.
Don’t buy a hoodie made from polyester. That’s just plastic — and you’ll probably need to buy another within the next year. Look for a sweatshirt with 100% cotton instead. It might cost more money upfront, but you can be sustainable and save money in the long run.
3. Reinvent Current Options
Have you ever looked at your closet and thought, “I don’t have anything to wear”? Well, you probably do have something to wear — but you don’t have any outfit ideas. If you know how to style different pieces, you won’t buy more clothes. That’s always most sustainable.
4. Donate Old Items
Of course, you should donate old items before you throw them away. Look at your closet to see what you can live without. Then, you can take everything to a thrift store or charity shop. This tactic will help you reduce waste — and give someone else new clothes.
If you have a shirt with stains or holes, you can try a different trick. Turn tarnished items into rags you can use for cleaning. It’s best to repurpose things before you toss them.
5. Learn How to Mend Articles
There’ll be times when you scuff your shoes and tear your sweaters. If you’re inclined to buy new ones, you should learn a few techniques to repair them. This new skill might take time, but you’ll be able to help your pieces last longer.
6. Rent Outfits for Events
Do you have a special celebration to attend? It’s always fun to shop for a new dress or suit. However, you should rent your outfit to make a more eco-friendly choice. After all, you won’t be able to wear that same piece until the next event happens.
7. Opt for Classic Pieces
Everyone should have some classic pieces. These items aren’t aligned with any trends. Rather, you can style them anytime. For example, you could invest in a black statement blazer and neutral-toned high heels. Try to collect several timeless articles you can wear for years to come.
8. Shop at Local Stores
It’s smart to shop locally before you buy from a popular chain. This effort helps stimulate your economy. Plus, your town’s clothing stores are more likely to use sustainable methods to source materials and manufacture pieces. Browse local items before you look at name-brand items.
9. Use Proper Care Techniques
Don’t be reckless with your clothes. If you use proper care techniques, you can help your clothes last for several years. For example, you should find a protectant spray for your suede shoes. Take care to ensure everything you own doesn’t get worn down.
10. Find Quality Basics
If you want to build a minimalist wardrobe, you shouldn’t forget about clothing staples. These pieces are items you can use to craft multiple outfits. Think black and white t-shirts and light-wash denim jeans. It’s easy to dress basics up and down to create any look you want.
Have some simple staples you can pair with bolder classic pieces to create a solid wardrobe.
Use These Pointers to Look Great While You Help the Planet
It’s easy to be stylish and eco-conscious when you get a little creative. With a few additions and adjustments, you’ll have an elegant clothing collection that supports the planet’s health. Try these tips to get started on your sustainable fashion journey.
About The Author:
Oscar Collins is the managing editor at Modded, where he writes about cars, fitness, the outdoors and more. Check out @TModded for regular updates!