In the world of fashion, being stylish and ethical don’t have to be mutually exclusive. For fashion-forward trendsetters who also want to make good choices for the environment, sustainable fashion finds are now emerging as a stylish new option. With the perfect combination of style and sustainability, the newest sustainable fashion finds offer an ethical way to keep up to date with the latest trends.
1. Crafting a Wardrobe of Conscious Choices
As we move towards building a fashion-forward wardrobe, it is essential to make conscious choices with every purchase. Knowing the origin and environmental impact of the clothing we acquire is essential to having a responsible wardrobe.
Inspect the origins. When shopping for clothing, it is essential to ask the question: Where did this garment come from? It is important to avoid purchasing from brands that rely on child labor, don’t provide living wages, or exploit the environment. Do your research and find out if the company follows ethical and sustainable practices.
It is also important to ask, who made the garment? To have a truly conscious wardrobe, it is essential to support homegrown brands and labels that are shaped by the artist, designer, or seamstress behind them. Knowing their stories is a way to appreciate the patience and skill that goes behind the construction of a garment.
Think about the fabric. There is a wide range of sustainable materials available out there. Consider choosing natural materials like cotton, hemp, linen, and silks over synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic. Make an effort to avoid apparel that use traditional leather and fur by choosing vegan and faux alternatives.
- Inspect the origins
- Who made the garment?
- Think about the fabric
2. Hunting for Sustainable Fashion Finds
As our lives become increasingly busy, it not only puts a strain on our wallets, but also on our environment. Every fashion item needs a journey of its own, from the factory to the store and sometimes further. That’s why it is becoming ever more important to purchase items that are made with sustainability in mind:
- Look into the sourcing of materials used: consider organic or recycled fabrics.
- Research into the craftsmanship of the item: how long will the item last? Is it made in a way that preserves or respects the environment?
As our commitment to shopping consciously grows, so do the conversations around sustainable fashion. There are now more accessible stores that enable us to buy quality items without having to be concerned about the carbon footprint of our purchases. Look out for sustainable fashion accreditations or certificates from organisations like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard).
And don’t forget too that if you want sustainable fashion finds but don’t have the means to buy brand new, consider second-hand stores. Depending on the item, you may even be able to get them repaired or up-cycled to make sure you are getting the most out of your item.
3. Taking Stock of Your Eco-Friendly Options
When considering the impact of your choices on the environment, you might be overwhelmed by the variety of eco-friendly options out there. Fear not! Taking stock of your options is easier than it seems with the help of a few key considerations.
- Consider the reusable versus single-use option. Can the item you need to purchase be reused? Investing in a quality item that can be used over and over is often the more eco-friendly solution.
- Evaluate the product’s impact on the environment. Does it use sustainable materials? Are there ways to use the item more efficiently? Answering questions like these provides perspective on the item’s environmental impact.
- Be aware of the life cycle of the product. Understanding its full impact, from manufacturing to disposal, gives you the best sense of the item’s environmental costs.
Making the move to a more eco-friendly lifestyle can be daunting, but taking stock of your options on a case-by-case basis can help you make informed decisions that benefit the environment. When you have the information you need, you can confidently explore your options. Consider researching certifications and eco-friendly labels, and ask questions to your vendors if you’re unsure of an item’s sustainability. By arming yourself with the facts, you’ll make wiser choices that support your commitment to the environment.
4. Celebrating Ethical Choices with Trendsetting Style
- Creating Trendsetting Outfits – Fashion doesn’t have to sacrifice ethics in the pursuit of being current. Choose fabrics and components from vendors with a track record of ethical trade. Choose cuts and accessories that suit your personal sense of style. The trendiest styles always include a mix of muted and vibrant colors and classic cuts. Using these basics will ensure an outfit that will stand out, with a look that is timeless.
- Focusing on Sustainable Materials – Eco-friendly fabrics can look just as stylish as the latest synthetic up-and-comers. Natural fibers such as cotton, hemp, and linen provide the latest trends in a way that respects the environment. Choose embellishments such as buttons and straps made of organic materials, or opt for recycled synthetic materials that have been produced with minimal damage to the environment.
- Adaptable Wardrobe Additions – Accessories can help customize fit and boost the vibrancy of any outfit. Introduce color with vibrant pieces, like scarves or statement earrings, and try to find ethical pieces that are made of natural materials which can adapt to different looks. Chunky jewelry and vintage brooches are a great addition to give the outfit an up-to-date look.
- Support Local Businesses and Talent – Supporting local craftsmen and businesses takes fashion choices to a higher level. The great thing about putting together an ethical fashion-forward look is that every single detail matters. Put together an inspiring look by finding locally produced accessories, and items created by upcoming talent, rather than mass-produced items.
5. Celebrating the Future of Sustainable Fashion
As we look to the future of fashion, sustainability is the spotlight. In recent years, the fashion industry has been seeking new ways to innovate, improve, and implement sustainability standards in its production, starting from natural resources, materials, and techniques. In turn, the culture of sustainable fashion is embraced and celebrated.
- Stockists are now offering more conscious eco-friendly brands
- Retailers are advocating for ethical practices and environmental conservation
- Consumers are becoming more discerning and demanding for sustainable brands
Fabrics are the cornerstone of any garment, and are now available in an ever growing range of novel sustainable varieties. Organic cotton, vegetable-based fabrics, biodegradable or upcycled materials are just a few of the materials which are now widely available. Designers too are coming up with ingenious ideas from repurposing of recyclable materials to implementing circular fashion systems.
Lastly, the sustainable fashion movement is gaining traction and momentum as more fashion weeks, even traditional fashion centers, are featuring eco-friendly collections. This simply shows that sustainable fashion is taking the world by storm and the future is looking bright and green!
Trendy fashion can be sustainable and ethical! With these sustainable fashion finds, you now know how to make stylish choices that you can feel confident in. Let’s all embrace a world where fashion is stylish, sustainable, and socially responsible!
