Make a Change: Embracing Sustainable Fashion
Introduction
Fashion plays a huge role in our daily lives. As much as we are devoted to staying trendy and fashionable, it is necessary to consider the fabrics, production processes, and environmental impact of the clothes we wear. Sustainable fashion is a booming industry, where garments are made ethically and responsibly with little or no harm to our planet. Making a conscious choice to embrace sustainable fashion can positively impact your personal growth, the environment, and society at large. With these in mind, here is how you can make a change by embracing sustainable fashion.
The Reality of Fast Fashion
The fashion industry is one of the largest and lucrative in the world, generating trillions of dollars in revenue annually. Though much of the industry’s financial success is due to fast fashion, the potential consequences of this model of consumption are severe. A typical fast-fashion garment is cheap to produce, sold at a low price point, and designed to be worn a few times before eventually being discarded. It is the epitome of planned obsolescence, and millions of these clothes end up in landfills daily, releasing greenhouse gases and harming the environment.
Fast fashion’s production processes are also a major concern. Materials such as cotton and polyester are used to make clothes rather quickly, with little attention given to quality. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester release microplastics and other harmful chemicals into our waterways every time we wash them. The harsh and unhealthy working conditions of garment workers in developing countries such as Bangladesh, India, China, and Vietnam are also a massive concern. Many workers work for 12-16 hours a day, with little pay and no job security. Fundamental human rights such as safety and health are frequently neglected, with workplace accidents being all too common.
The Impact of Sustainable Fashion
Sustainable fashion offers a route to transform fashion consumption significantly. This model of clothing production considers the environmental, social, and economic impact of the entire production process, from materials to manufacturing to transport to disposal. Sustainable fashion aims to reduce the impact of fast fashion on the planet, promote fair labor practices, and prioritize the longevity of clothing.
Sustainable fashion uses materials such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, hemp, and bamboo. These materials can be grown or produced responsibly without the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides that pollute our environment. Clothing produced ethically supports fair wages and working conditions for garment workers, which is critical for their livelihoods. Additionally, sustainable fashion pieces are designed to last, with quality over quantity being emphasized, reducing the need for conventional clothing purchases.
Steps to Embrace Sustainable Fashion
Making a conscious decision to embrace sustainable fashion requires a shift in mindset. Here are specific steps to take towards a more sustainable fashion lifestyle.
- 1. Research Brands
- 2. Opt for High-Quality Clothes
- 3. Be Conscious of the Fabrics
- 4. Shop Secondhand
- 5. Rent Clothes
Before purchasing a piece of clothing, research the brand’s values, production processes, and materials. Be on the lookout for brands that use sustainable and eco-friendly materials, transparent supply chains, and ethical labor practices. Brands such as Patagonia, Everlane, Reformation, and Levi’s are pioneers in sustainable fashion with an emphasis on reducing the impact of fast fashion.
Invest in high-quality clothes designed to last for more than a few seasons. Although sustainable fashion pieces tend to be more expensive than fast fashion, the higher price reflects the quality of materials and construction, and you will get more wear out of the item. Additionally, higher-quality clothes can be repaired more easily, reducing textile waste. It is crucial to build a long-term relationship with your clothes, considering them like an investment- ensure they last and that you enjoy wearing them.
Be conscious of the materials that make up your garments. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon are popular in fast fashion, but they contribute to microfiber and plastic pollution. Opt for pieces made of organic cotton, linen, and wool, which are eco-friendly and biodegradable. Clothing made from recycled materials, such as recycled polyester and nylon, is also an excellent option.
Shopping secondhand is a sustainable habit that has gained popularity with the rise of sustainable fashion. Secondhand fashion shopping allows you to extend the lifecycle of clothes, reduce environmental impact, save money, and support local businesses. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces such as eBay and Depop are great places to shop secondhand.
Renting clothes is a developing trend that is seen as a more sustainable option than fast fashion. Renting clothes from online platforms, such as Rent the Runway and Nuuly, allows you to curate a wardrobe without pledging to purchase items that could only be worn once. This is especially useful for occasions such as weddings or other special events. You can return the items after use with no remorse, thus saving money while reducing environmental impact.
Conclusion
Sustainable fashion is not a passive trend but a conscious decision to make an impact. The fashion industry must prioritize sustainability throughout the entire production process, from raw materials to transport. This industry is one that impacts both people and the environment, making it necessary to consider the fundamental principles of responsible production and transportation.
By embracing sustainable fashion, you can make a change and contribute to a better world. It involves taking conscious steps towards a greener future, promoting fair labor, and encouraging people to consider clothing ownership and consumption from a more sustainable lens. Sustainable fashion promotes the beauty in taking time and being mindful, with a focus on creating purposeful relationships with the clothes you wear.