3 simple ways to make your wardrobe more sustainable
Shopaholics will understand just how fun a shopping trip can be. However, if you want to become a more sustainable shopper, you'll need to curb those toxic shopping habits and start making your clothing choices more eco-friendly. The footwear and clothing industry is the third most polluting in the world, producing 8% of the world's total greenhouse gas emissions. However, it's not too late to do your part for the planet and you can start with your clothing choices. Here are three simple ways to make your wardrobe more sustainable:
1. Choose clothing items that will last a lifetime
You might be tempted by the next big clothing sale, wanting to buy everything in sight. However, if you're going to become a more sustainable shopper, you need to adopt a more minimalist approach. Be selective with the items you purchase, choosing items that will last for a lifetime instead of products that will fall apart after just one use. Not only is this better for the planet, but your bank balance will also thank you in the long run.
If you're struggling with the minimalist approach, try and get creative with your outfit choices; hit the internet and look for different ways to wear an item of clothing. Most importantly, don't be afraid to wear the same outfit twice; no-one will notice and it's the best option for the planet.
2. Shop with a sustainable brand
Before you start adding clothes to your shopping basket, do your research into the company. It might be difficult to stay away from your favourite brand if they produce unsustainable products, but it's necessary if you want an eco-conscious wardrobe. Boycotting certain brands is essential if you want to trigger change; in the future, a company might change its environmental ethos and you can start shopping with them again.
Until that time, start shopping with brands that are known to be sustainable. ASOS is one such brand with a corporate responsibility programme in place. 34% of all fibres used in ASOS brands come from sustainable sources and 70% of clothes sold on ASOS's Marketplace are vintage or pre-worn. Invest in brands with similar goals and you can wear your next outfit proudly, knowing that it was sustainably created.
3. Upcycle and repair
According to a recent Sainsbury's survey, more than 235 million tonnes of clothes end up in landfill each year; this is a staggering number that really ought to be much lower. Before you throw an item of clothing away, ask yourself if there's another option. Get savvy with the scissors, cropping jeans and t-shirts that you've grown bored of. If there's a small hole in your jeans, they aren't destined for the bin, sew it up and they'll be as good as new.
However, sometimes clothes are beyond repair and cannot be upcycled in any way, but this is no excuse to throw it away. Charity shops are always on the hunt for clothing donations and they will even take rags that are seemingly beyond repair.
