Fashionably Responsible

A new piece of clothing (picture vibrant colours and textures) can really enhance my sense of self. So when the seasons change, I use the new weather patterns as a built-in excuse to go shopping for something that will make me feel and look great.

But as an environmentally-conscious person, I also have to think about how, where, and with what things get made. This built-in conscience can definitely be at odds with the urge to go on a shopping spree.

Being environmentally forward and fashionable however, does not have to be mutually exclusive .  What you wear and how you shop can be sustainable if you consider a few things:

1. Some of the hippest clothing just isn’t getting made any more. So how do you find it?

Action: Stake out the best vintage or second-hand clothing stores in your area (or look for them when you go traveling) and pick up something new to you.

2. Sweatshops are definitely not fashionable. The textiles industry and the fashion industry have had to adapt to increasing awareness about sweatshops and unfair working conditions for garment workers.

Action: Choose clothing made under just conditions. Do a little research on your favorite companies and find out what their business policies are. Can’t find it? Ask a clerk, a store manager or write a letter. Ask where the clothes get made, or if they carry organic or recycled content lines.

3. Share or swap clothing with friends.

Action: Saw something you like on a friend? Ask to borrow it? Often, we are compelled to buy clothing for one-time events and this is not a very efficient consumer practice. Borrow items, or lend yours out to friends as well.

4. Just need some basic tees?

Action: Choose organic fair trade cotton. Organic cotton is becoming increasingly available in popular retail stores. Ask a clerk where you can find these items!

The benefits of shopping sustainably include reducing the need for pesticides, harmful dyes, water use, and will reduce packaging and greenhouse gas emissions. Shopping should be fun. Shopping sustainably is fun.