Fashion is the second industry after oil that pollutes and damages our environment the most. Did you know that it takes 2,000 gallons (7,600 liters) of water to produce your favourite pair of jeans? (There already are some amazing brands who are making sustainable denim though, e.g. LA-based Boyish Jeans). Everything from the materials used, to the conditions of the workplace and the carbon footprint that is being left before you can enjoy wearing the garment is important in determining just how ethical and sustainable the brand is.
It’s important to know that each of us can take steps in supporting ethical fashion and helping our planet:
- Take good care of the clothes/accessories you own to prolong their life. Prioritise quality over quantity.
- Buy versatile things that would work well with your already existing wardrobe and that can be styled into a great variety of outfits.
- Don’t buy just for the sake of buying. Try vintage or even rental alternatives.
- Check the clothing tags and prioritise pieces that are made of one material (100% cotton, wool, linen etc.) Mixed materials are harder (if not impossible) to recycle and upcycle.
- Give clothes that you don’t want anymore to charity instead of throwing them away.
- And, finally, stop buying from the fast fashion retailers and support ethical and sustainable brands instead.
Remember that even little changes in your shopping habits can help in making fashion industry more ethical.
