We all buy clothes, there’s 50% off our favourite brand and a buy-one get-one offer on another. So, we fill our carts. But do we realise what happens to all the clothes that no longer fit, those that have a tiny hole in them or the ones we simply get bored of and throw away?
They will probably end up in a landfill. Maybe near your city or far away, but they will all cause harm. The fashion industry and top brands have a big impact, from making materials to how clothes are thrown away.
But now, more people are choosing eco-friendly options. They're buying clothes made from recycled materials or supporting brands that care about the planet. Sustainable fashion is all about clothes, shoes, and accessories that are made and used in eco-friendly ways. It's important because traditional fashion can harm the environment with chemicals and waste.
Sustainable fashion is a way to protect our world by making smarter choices and pushing for better practices in the fashion world. So, what can we do? Read along to find out more about sustainable wardrobe tips and trends.
Tips for Building a Sustainable Wardrobe
Buying local, long-lasting products made from natural fibres and repairing and reusing your existing clothes are the top ethical clothing choices you can make to build a sustainable wardrobe.
Here are 5 tips to boost your green fashion sense:
Choose Quality over Quantity
Invest in durable, high-quality pieces that last longer and reduce the need for frequent replacements. This approach not only saves money in the long run but also reduces the environmental impact of disposable fashion.
The compact and durable multipurpose leather box made of vegetable tan leather is the ideal example of this principle. Crafted to withstand years of use, its design and sturdy base preserves it in your wardrobe for decades.
Opt for Natural and Recycled Materials
Check clothing labels for materials like organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, or recycled fabrics. These materials are sustainable wardrobe essentials that have a lower environmental footprint compared to synthetic fibres like polyester.
Cotton shirts and sarees, jute handbags, customizable bamboo earrings and natural dyed jackets are a few examples of sustainable options that prioritise both style and environmental responsibility.
Support Ethical Brands
Research sustainable fashion brands with transparent supply chains and fair labour practices. Look for certifications and commitments to sustainability.
At Kreate, we prioritise ethical production and eco-friendly materials, making them great choices for conscientious consumers. Working towards a greener Earth is one of our topmost priorities. We collaborate with underprivileged communities and aim to create an industry-wide network of sustainable growth.
Our collection of thousands of sustainable fashion items is the perfect place to select eco-friendly clothing, accessories, and more.
Embrace Second-hand and Vintage Shopping
You can also explore thrift stores, consignment shops, and online platforms for second-hand clothing. It's a sustainable way to find new pieces while choosing garments already in circulation.
Care for Your Clothes
One of the best green fashion tips is to extend the lifespan of your wardrobe by adopting eco-friendly laundry practices and learning basic clothing repairs. This reduces the frequency of washing and preserves your favourite garments for longer.
- Wash your clothes less:
Reduce water and energy usage by washing clothes only when necessary, especially heavier items like sweaters and jackets that don't require frequent washing. This practice also prolongs the life of your clothing.
For example, you can wash your jeans after every 4-10 wears, dresses after 2-3 wears and undergarments after 3-4 wares.
- Mend worn-out clothes:
Learn to repair clothes on your own, basic stitching to fix holes, seam repairs and button replacements are important skills that will help your budget and extend the lifespan of your wardrobe sustainably.
Alternatively, you can support local tailors or seamstresses who can mend and alter your clothes. They offer affordable repairs that can breathe new life into worn-out items, saving them from ending up in landfills.
Sustainable Fashion Trends
Today, building a sustainable wardrobe is more than a way to better our surroundings, it is ‘in fashion’. The recent drift towards slow fashion and minimalism encourages mindful, eco-friendly clothing options over fast fashion.
By supporting these trends, you can look good, feel good, and do good. So why not start today? Here are some popular sustainable fashion trends to explore:
Slow Fashion Movement and Minimalism
Slow fashion encourages buying from local artisans, focusing on quality and lasting pieces. It supports communities and promotes a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry.
Similarly, minimalism focuses on quality over quantity, with fewer, timeless pieces you love.
For instance, handmade potli bags are beautiful, unique, and support local communities while stylish minimalist sling bags are practical and long-lasting.
Upcycling and DIY Fashion
Upcycling and DIY fashion are all about creativity and sustainability. Instead of discarding clothes that no longer fit or are out of style, you can transform them into something new and unique. Simple DIY projects, like turning an old t-shirt into a tote bag or adding patches to jeans, are fun ways to personalise your wardrobe.
If you are not into DIYs, you can search for creative products online. This eco-friendly and elegant set of upcycled scrunchies is the best way to start buying recycled fashion materials.
Eco-friendly Accessories
Accessories are a key part of any outfit and choosing eco-friendly options can make a huge difference. Sustainable jewellery, bags, and shoes are made from materials that are better for the environment, such as recycled metals, organic cotton, and biodegradable plastics.
Sustainable clutches, wallets, and eco-friendly backpacks are other elephant and green options to consider.