Building a Sustainable Wardrobe – Tips for Longevity & Style
Creating a sustainable wardrobe from scratch can seem overwhelming to you. You might worry about not being able to wear your favorite brands and limiting your choices when it comes to following trends. Additionally, it may require spending a bit more money than you’re used to.
Rest assured, your concerns are valid, but embarking on a sustainable wardrobe journey is easier than you think, and the benefits are definitely worth it in the long term.
Let me share with you some tips from the experts to help you effortlessly build a more sustainable wardrobe.
Choose Clothes to Wear More Than 30 Times
You have likely heard of the 30 Wears Challenge, which has been the standard for considering a new purchase as a worthwhile investment. It was introduced in 2015 by Eco Age co-founder Livia Firth and journalist Lucy Seigle, urging consumers to assess if they would wear an item at least 30 times before buying it. However, as sustainability gains more prominence in our daily routines, it prompts us to reconsider whether 30 wears is sufficient when curating our long-lasting wardrobe.
To make wise sustainable fashion ideas, steer clear of purchasing a statement piece that you’re aware will only be worn once for a specific occasion. Instead, focus on investing in items that offer longevity and can be worn repeatedly. Opt for versatile pieces that can be styled in various ways, rather than that single item you know will quickly go out of fashion. By selecting versatile options, you ensure that your wardrobe remains adaptable and sustainable for the long haul.
Do Your Homework
If you want to learn how to shop sustainably, knowing where to begin is crucial. The question of where to shop responsibly is equally important. Fortunately, the good news is that it’s much simpler now than it used to be, as numerous brands prioritize sustainability in their operations.
A helpful guideline when evaluating a brand’s sustainability is to consider how easy it is to access information about their practices. If it proves challenging to uncover their eco-conscious stance, it’s likely that they may not be as committed to sustainability as they claim. By familiarizing yourself with such brands, you can make more informed choices and support those dedicated to making a positive impact.
Opt for New But Old Pieces
You understand the excitement and joy that comes with shopping and wearing something new. However, experiencing that feeling of novelty doesn’t necessarily require purchasing brand new items. You can achieve sustainable clothing essentials by exploring vintage pieces or renting special items for specific occasions.
Choosing vintage pieces or renting fashion is not only a stylish choice but also an eco-friendly one. It’s alarming to consider that 300,000 tonnes of unwanted clothes are discarded rather than recycled each year. By embracing the concept of sharing our wardrobes and participating in the circular economy through rental fashion, we take a significant step towards building a more sustainable future.
Trans-Seasonal Clothes is the Best
When it comes to building a sustainable wardrobe, it’s crucial for you to make thoughtful purchases that will serve you throughout the year. Avoid investing in an entire summer wardrobe if you reside in a cold and rainy location like London. Chances are, you won’t pass the 30 wears test for most of those seasonal items. Instead, allocate the majority of your budget towards pieces that can be worn across multiple seasons, ensuring longevity and versatility.
Consider essential items like jeans, T-shirts, classic dresses, and timeless coats and jackets. These wardrobe staples have the power to transcend trends and remain relevant throughout various seasons. By focusing on such timeless pieces, you’ll establish a more sustainable wardrobe that can be adapted to different weather conditions and occasions, while minimizing the need for frequent replacements.
Don’t Hesitate to Donate
Taking the initiative to donate your unwanted clothes to a worthy cause instead of allowing them to languish in your wardrobe can have a significant impact on promoting sustainability. By doing so, you provide others with the opportunity to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle by investing in pre-loved garments rather than purchasing something brand new. Adopting a one-in, one-out policy can be an effective strategy in this regard, where you live by the mantra that for every new item you acquire, you commit to donating an existing one.
Embracing this practice not only encourages mindful consumption but also ensures that your wardrobe remains clutter-free and purposeful. When you adhere to the one-in, one-out principle, you create a balanced cycle of giving and receiving, allowing your clothing items to have a meaningful journey beyond your own use. Your donations can find new homes, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for excessive production.
Love & Care for Your Clothes
You already recognize the significance of this point, but it cannot be emphasized enough. Investing in higher-quality clothing is not only an obvious choice but a vital one. When you opt for garments crafted with superior craftsmanship and durable materials, they are more likely to withstand the test of time. Moreover, the costlier price tag often motivates you to handle them with extra care, further extending their lifespan.
However, this principle extends beyond just your higher-quality pieces. Every item in your wardrobe deserves attention and proper maintenance. By dedicating time and effort to care for your clothes, you can significantly reduce the frequency of replacements. Whether it’s delicately tending to your cashmere sweaters or washing your denim inside out to preserve the color and texture, going the extra mile in garment care ensures that your clothes stay in their best condition for a longer duration.
Build Your Sustainable Wardrobe
Building a sustainable wardrobe is an achievable goal that starts with making conscious choices. By following the tips shared by experts, you can embark on a journey towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly fashion lifestyle.
Remember, creating a sustainable wardrobe is not only beneficial for the environment but also for your personal style and wallet in the long run. Every small step you take towards a more sustainable fashion approach contributes to a brighter future for our planet and future generations.
