3 Ways to Shop For Sustainable Fashion*

Let’s face it, one of the best things to come out of the 21st century, in particular the last ten or so years, is this push for sustainability and looking after the Earth. We all know that there are finite resources when it comes to our home planet, and since there is no such thing as a “new Earth” we have to work hard to stretch out what we have. Thankfully there is a never ending search for new reusable resources but as individuals we can all do our bit. From reducing our carbon footprint, eating less meat and powering our home with reusable energy.

But did you know fast fashion also contributes to green house gas emission? Not only that but it produces a lot of textile waste, much of which cannot be recycled and ends up in land fills. I know I’m guilty of being suckered into fast fashion, even at my age when I know longer consciously follow trends. But thankfully there are ways to shop sustainably that can help me move away from fast fashion and invest in some pieces for my wardrobe that have lasting potential.

From the Source

Shopping from the source is obviously one of the best ways to invest in sustainable fashion. You just need to be aware of what retailers are actually sustainable and are not use hot words as a front. Bamigo is a brand that is passionate about sustainable fashion using bamboo fibers rather than cotton. Bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants on earth and it only needs sunlight and water to do this. Not only this, manufacturing it has a much smaller carbon footprint than say cotton. When shopping for ethical and sustainable clothing, bamboo is definitely a fabric to keep an eye out for.

Second Hand

I know a lot of people are reluctant to move towards more ethical fabrics for clothing due to the price, which is why you can also shop second hand. I love eBay and Vinted for this as it means I can usually pick up bits I would have been unable to afford from stores at full price. I also like that it means I usually end up with multiple items in different sizes or colours as I can search for exactly what I like. Buying second hand means less clothing and textiles end up in landfills.

Swap Shop

Finally, another great way to reuse and recycle unwanted clothing is to hold a swap shop. You can make this as big or as small as you way, opening it up to everyone or just keeping it to friends and family. You know the saying, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” while you may no longer fit or want something, there is no saying how someone else will feel. Not only is this a great way to give clothes a new life purpose, but it means you can replenish your wardrobe without spending a penny! Now who doesn’t like to do that?