Facing the ugly side of fashion. How to become a more conscious fashion consumer
Love is a complicated concept. As beautiful as it is love has an ugly side, accepting and navigating the not so pleasant realities of the thing you love. This is where the complicated love for fashion comes in.
The not so sexy side of fashion is its environmental impact. From how much water is used in the making of those amazing jeans that make you look amazing to the inability of fabrics like Polyester to biodegrade.
You can’t walk around naked, so how do you balance the love of fashion and not destroying the earth? Here is a small list of changes you can make right now,
Avoid fast fashion
Fast fashion is not made to last and is often of very poor quality. A few washes and the item has to be replaced, which is why fast fashion companies enjoy huge profits - the continuous cycle of use, dispose then replace. On the ugly side of that very trendy piece that costs 3 times less than the one that looks exactly the same but is better made, is how this piece is made, what it’s made from, and where it ends up when you don’t want it anymore.
Together the apparel and footwear industries generated between 5 and 10% of global pollution impacts in 2016. - Quantis Intl 2018 report
Invest in well made
So what’s the alternative to fast fashion? Investing in well-made pieces. Ever wondered how that 1980s coat at your local vintage store still looks great? The goal is to have pieces that are better made and therefore last longer which means we throw away less clothing and reduce what ends up in landfills.
Shop off-price gently used, or vintage
It’s unrealistic to think we can always buy that more pricey piece all the time. This is where off-price, gently used or vintage comes in. Off-price gives clothing a longer shelf life, gently used gives clothing a second life and vintage adds unique character to your closet. In short, this can be by buying better-made brands from stores that sell it for less. Yes, it might not be the latest item but if well-styled it’s an item that you feel great wearing.
Take it a step further and consign your clothes too. Giving them a second life while making a little money towards your clothes purchases
Shop local designers
If it takes fewer trips to get it to you, the earth is happier. Not only will the earth thank you but you will be contributing to the emergence of the Canadian Fashion industry. That’s a double win.
Donate rather than throw away
How do we turn that ugly side of fashion for good? Donate! Spread the love and support local communities by giving to those who don’t have. Most organizations have donation bins throughout the city but we challenge you to check your city website for a list of charities who accept clothing donations. This is one way of making sure your items are truly reaching those who need them.
Swap
You probably have stylish friends and they have you as a stylish friend. And if you are the kind of people who shop well made then clothes swap are a great way to add newness to your closet. Social, newness, fewer clothes in landfill = winning.
Up-cycle
With some creativity and help from a tailor, reinvent the pieces you already have. With a few alterations, you can have something new whether it’s in look or fit and this not only adds some newness but allows you to keep your clothes longer.
Becoming a better fashion consumer is a long road but we can help. Through our partners, you can support local designers and with every Style 360 or Wardrobe Refresh, we can donate your old clothing on your behalf.
Get in touch.
