Buy Less, choose well
Here is a sustainable fashion tip, buy only necessity, invest in high-quality, timeless pieces that last longer and withstand trends. The term ‘timeless pieces’ is a real thing. According to Coco Chanel, quality, comfort and style never goes out of fashion.
Versatility, no single use
Opt for versatile items that can be layered and styled in multiple ways, to create different looks. Layer your autumn or even summer clothes, convert your active wear to streetwear or your office wear to a dinner outfit. Sneakers are so versatile, Veja is a great sustainable sneaker brand.
Thrifting, buy resale
Explore thrift stores, consignment shops, and online platforms for second-hand, resale fashion items, coats & boots. Any item in your wardrobe you are not wearing, sell on resale or give to a charity shop and swap for ones you’ll actually wear. Vestiaire Collective and Luxury Promise are great places to do this as they authenticate each item.
Wear what you already own
One thing I always say is, ‘the most sustainable item is the one you currently have in your wardrobe’, from shopping your closet to renting it, the possibility is endless. I have fashion items from the past 10+ years that I still wear and are fashionable for any season.
The most sustainable option is the one you currently have in your wardrobe
by Nnenna hemeson
Natural, sustainable fabrics and a stamp of approval
From organic cotton to sustainably sourced wool or cashmere, tencel, hemp and bamboo, these are eco-friendly materials alternative to the likes of polyester etc. The thing about recycled polyester is they are actually made from recycled plastic, not clothes. It’s also good to look for a stamp of approval. Lookout for certifications like Fairtrade and B-Corp when buying your clothes, they indicate ethical practice in line with sustainability. You will find a lot of fast fashion brands do not have this.
Rent or borrow
Especially for those special occasions, Christmas parties and other festivities, rent or borrow, do not spend on something you rarely wear. Arrange for clothes swap with family and friends. The Hurr Collective is a great place to rent from, even the Princess of Wales has rented a few from here.
Support your local designers
Support your local designers and artisans, to support your community while reducing your carbon footprint from shipping. Ahluwalia is an amazing circular brand here in the UK.
Take better care of your clothes
This is an underrated skill when it comes to extending the life of your clothes. This is really my secret to wearing pieces for years and years. Cold water is perfect for colours and air drying is not only good for your pocket, but also for the planet. Ecover has great tips for this.
Upcycling and DIY
Get your clothes altered, fixed and mended by your amazing dry cleaners or even the famous. Back home, we took our clothes to the seamsters and seamstress to let our clothes out or take it in or even restyle that ugly bridesmaid dress. Sojo is a great company for this, they recently opened an amazing spot at Selfridges in Oxford Street.
Educate yourself and advocate for change
Do your research, engage your favourite brands, and encourage them to be more sustainable and transparent. Advocate for policies and ethical practices within the fashion industry. WRAP, Fashion Revolution and The Sustainable Fashion Forum are great organisations for this, for fashion and beyond.
This article was initially created and written for ALL IN, now Up Beat World.
Written by Nnenna Hemeson
Edited by Ruth Oliver
