Be Thrifty
About 13 million tons of clothing waste ends up in landfills each year, but you can help keep some of those items in use by shopping thrift stores and yard sales. Buying used clothing is one of the greenest ways to fill out your wardrobe. You’re not only preventing the clothes you purchase from being discarded but also saving a lot of pollution that results from the manufacture and shipping of new clothing.
Get Crafty
It was only a few decades ago when making your own clothing was the norm, and sewing your own fashions is still one of the most eco-friendly and affordable ways to dress. You can pick up easy patterns at craft stores or print them from the internet. As your sewing skills improve, you can start designing your own unique patterns. Are you all thumbs with a needle and thread? Try looking for handmade pieces from local artists.
Choose Sustainable Materials
Many common materials used for clothing contain pesticides, harmful dyes or hidden animal products. If you’re shopping for ethical clothing options, it’s important to check the labels. Look for healthy, sustainable materials like organic cotton, hemp, Tencel and alternative fabrics made from plants. Recycled fabrics are also a great choice. Look for t-shirts made from plastic bottles or sweaters knitted with marine and coastal recovered plastic material yarn.
Research Eco-friendly Brands
There are many great eco-friendly brands on the market, but you’re not likely to find them in your local big box store or shopping mall. However, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get them. Alternative Apparel is one brand that specializes in affordable, eco-friendly basics made with organic materials. Check out Bluer Denim if you need a pair of sustainable jeans to go with your organic cotton t-shirt.
Although choosing environmentally responsible fashion is important, sometimes you can’t find what you need at the price you can afford without resorting to fast fashion. Remember, every eco-friendly piece you buy helps even if you can’t build your entire wardrobe with sustainable choices.
About the Author:
Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. She went to college at The Ohio State University where she studied communications. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and long walks in the park with her 3-year-old husky Snowball.
Twitter: @LizzieWeakley
Facebook: facebook.com/lizzie.weakley