In order to make the planet a greener and happier place, consumers can make small changes within their shopping habits and everyday lives to gradually improve our environmental space and contribute to sustainability. Within this article, we will be sharing simplified terms on how you can contribute specifically regarding the fashion industry and consuming luxury goods.
When you are making a fashion purchase, do you ask yourself, ‘Do I really love this? Do I need this? Do I have something similar in my wardrobe already? Will I wear this piece in 5-10 years?’ Having a detailed thought process before making a fashion decision will not only cut down waste and pollution, but also help you to invest in a long-term wardrobe, rather than pieces you will get bored of and throw away after a few months of wear. Therefore, picking high-quality brands that engage in sustainability, and fit your personal style, will help in the long run. Also thinking through your fashion purchases and perhaps consuming less, as you will have timeless quality within your collection.
Instead of constantly purchasing from stores, buying pre-loved pieces perhaps from an online seller such as https://galore.club or a fashion vintage shop is a fantastic way of practising sustainability whilst shopping, as you are contributing to the circular economy. The circular fashion concept is all about getting maximum usage out of a product, which may ultimately decrease the amount of clothing waste that is being piled within landfill. Another great alternative is using rental websites, perhaps for special occasions, this will allow you to borrow a fabulous piece for a fraction of the price to wear for a specific amount of time. This is also a great way to experiment within fashion and figure out if you really love something before you make a big purchase.
"I don't think that 'eco' should be a word that immediately conjures up images of oatmeal-coloured garments or garments that are oversized or lacking in any sort of luxury or beauty or detailing or desirability," says Stella McCartney. "I don't think that things have to look ugly because they're organic; why can't they be beautiful as well? You can't ask a consumer to compromise. I don't think you can say, 'Here is this jacket that looks terrible but it's organic, and here is a really beautiful jacket that's cheaper but don't buy it because it's not organic'."
Discarding of the biggest myths of sustainable fashion and using your creative eye may be the best tool of all in terms of being sustainable day-to-day and when shopping. Sustainable fashion doesn’t mean plain, grotesque fashion. You can still look and feel beautiful and stylish whilst being considerate and educated in regards to circularity and sustainability. Taking the time to learn about the importance of sustainability, and how it is not only affecting the fashion industry but also the planet is the first step. Then recognising how your style will still be achievable whilst perhaps shopping differently. You don’t have to comprise your style or admiration for fashion.