‘Sustainable Wardrobe? It's just not feasible for a layman. It's for the rich!'
We've come across this comment a zillion times and it's about time we address it because sustainability is the need of the hour. So, right off the bat, let us state that sustainable fashion needn't be for the rich only. A sustainable wardrobe doesn't mean a closet packed with clothes from high-end brands. In fact, focusing on sustainability can help you purchase in a cost-effective manner and reduce your expenditure on clothes. Yes! You heard that right and we'll be spilling some beans on that! But, firstly, we need to be educated about the true meaning of sustainable wardrobe, because only education can ward off misconceptions!
So, What is a Sustainable Wardrobe?
10-20% of pesticide use. 8-10% of the world's carbon emissions. 20% of wastewater.
These are just some of the impacts of fast fashion. In order to curb these impacts, sustainable fashion ought to be promoted. One way, to do it is by building a wardrobe that is friendlier and has less of a negative impact on the environment. The contents of this wardrobe should be less harmful to the planet and contribute to sustainable fashion. This is what we call a sustainable wardrobe.
How to Build a Sustainable Wardrobe that Easily Fits your Budget?
Is it possible to build a sustainable wardrobe at a low budget? Of course, it is, and we are here to prove it to you. Here are some super-easy, super-affordable tips and tricks to build a sustainable wardrobe:
1. Organize your Wardrobe
First things first. Let's start with organization. You probably have a lot of content in your wardrobe that can contribute to sustainability. You just have to see it and that happens when you organize your wardrobe. Once that's done you will have clarity about what you need, what you don't need, and what you already have to build a sustainable wardrobe.
Here's what you can do.
Segregate and categorize your clothes. For instance, to make it easier, you can first group all of your dresses together, then tops, pants, and so on. Once that's done, identify the wanted and unwanted items(like the ones that don't fit or don't capture your interest anymore....in short the ones you can't or don't want to wear). Stack them up into two different piles.
Of course, you can keep the 'wanted' stack but do not...I repeat...DO NOT... just throw away the unwanted items in your wardrobe. It causes more harm than good. You might want to segregate them again into the ones that can still be worn and not worn. Pack up the items that are still in good condition and donate them. Then, check if you can recycle the items that can't be worn. You can take it to a textile shop that offers a recycling program. Otherwise, you can use them for cleaning, knit them into grocery bags, or just DIY them into anything useful!
2. Shop Mindfully and Sustainably for Clothes
We all tend to shop for a lot of clothes whenever we get them cheap. At times, the prices are so attractive that you don't even know if you actually need the item! You just buy them, because...come on..where do you get this clothe at such a low price! Then, of course, you’ll regret buying them at the spur of that moment! You might wear it once maybe. So, the next step to building a sustainable wardrobe is to shop mindfully.
First, find out what you need and focus on wearability. Well, you can't call it a sustainable wardrobe unless you wear/use the contents! Here's what you can do. Try the 30 wears test as Livia Firth, the founder of Eco-Age suggests. So every time you buy clothing, ask yourself, 'Would I wear it at least 30 times?' If the answer is a confident 'YES' then go for it!
Invest in longevity. Opt for versatile, trans-seasonal clothing that you think will never go out of vogue. Plus, see if the garment you pick can be styled and paired in different ways. Another important point is to examine the material used to make these clothes. You can do a quick research before you shop. If they are strong, durable, and environment-friendly, and of course, if you love 'em, then buy 'em!
3. Do your Research
Researching sustainable clothing can go a long way. You can find out what materials are best suited for sustainability and come at a reasonable rate, which brands sell sustainable products in a transparent manner, which are the toxic materials, and so on. You can also research DIY methods to style your clothing in different ways in order to avoid buying more clothes. I mean..that's surely one way of saving money!
4. Buy Second Hand
Second-hand shopping is one of the cheapest, yet great ways to build a sustainable wardrobe. Now, there are tons of ways to do second-hand shopping!
One way is to borrow some items from your mom's, dad's, or even sibling's vintage collection. Vintage clothes have their own charm and can help you just stand out in the crowd! For instance, our moms' sarees, dresses, and jumpers; aren't they truly something to flaunt?!
Next, you can swap your clothes with friends. You can go through your respective wardrobes, pick the clothes you are not really into and swap them for items that you like from the other's wardrobe. Zero clothes, zero money wasted!
Last but not least, you can purchase great second-hand garments from thrift stores at real good deals!
Final thoughts…
None of the tips mentioned above burns a hole in your pocket. In fact, it kinda helps you save money, and above all your planet! Building a sustainable wardrobe is not a costly process. But yes, it is a continuous and mindful process, and it is worth all the time as it ultimately helps reduce the negative impacts of fashion on the environment.
Comments