Sustainable clothing has created an enormous impact on the fashion industry of late. It is like a movement started with a few bunch of people which is now gaining popularity in big numbers. Those groups are ensuring their clothes are made up of eco–friendly materials, that do not harm the environment. Below is a detailed guide to sustainable clothing and how one can incorporate it into their wardrobe.
What is Sustainable Clothing?
Sustainable Clothing involves the use of natural products in a way that does not harm the environment. This consists of using eco-friendly materials, ethical labour practices and adapting methods that reduce environmental impact during the lifecycle of the product.
Why Sustainable Clothing Matters
Environmental Impact
The fashion industry creates the largest pollution in the entire world when it comes to polluting largely water, carbon emissions and landfill waste. Sustainable clothing ensures the reduction of these unlawful impacts on the environment, thereby diminishing the harmfulness overall.
Ethical Labour Practices
Traditional clothing brands heavily rely on illicit labour practices, especially in developing nations, where workers are exploited regularly. Sustainable clothing brands advocate for fair wages, safe working conditions and the overall welfare of the employees.
Quality and Longevity
Sustainable clothing usually emphasizes quality over quantity. It focuses on long-lasting and durable pieces to reduce waste and less need for replacement frequently.
Sustainable Materials
Selecting the right materials is an important aspect of sustainable fashion. Below are some commonly used eco-friendly materials:
Organic Cotton
Organic cotton is grown naturally without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, consequently reducing the ecological footprint. It requires quite less water than conventional cotton.
Recycled Fabrics
Recycled materials, such as recycled polyester, are created from post-consumer plastic waste, like bottles and other plastic waste, reducing the need for virgin materials and decreasing landfill waste.
Hemp
Hemp is an extremely sustainable crop that needs minimum water and pesticides. It grows fairly fast and can be used to make breathable and durable fabrics.
Tencel (Lyocell)
Tencel, also known as Lyocell is derived from sustainably harvested wood sources using a closed-loop production process, it requires minimal water in its production and is known for moisture control and breathability.
Micro Modal Fabric
This is the only Modal fabric one should purchase, as it is made of pulp from a sustainably harvested tree. It has an identical closed-loop production process like Lyocell.
Sustainable Fashion Brands
Here are a few noteworthy brands that are into sustainable clothing and are paving their way into eco–friendly fashion:
Patagonia
Patagonia is an eminent brand which is known for its commitment to sustainable clothing. They use recycled materials, endorse environmental causes and promote fair labour policy.
Eileen Fisher
Eileen Fisher concentrates on using organic and recycled fabrics. It always promotes fair labour practices and recycled clothing programs.
Reformation
Reformation is a famous clothing brand that focuses on sustainable fabrics, and ethical manufacturing processes and is extremely transparent in its production process.
Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney is an opulent brand, which is committed to using sustainable and organic materials. It is against animal cruelty and therefore uses such materials in their collection.
How to Build a Sustainable Clothing Wardrobe?
Building a collection of sustainable clothing wardrobe doesn’t happen overnight, but here are some steps to help you get started:
1. Evaluate Your Current Wardrobe
Check on your current wardrobe collection and identify your favourite pieces that you wear frequently, this process will help you to have more mindful shopping in the future.
2. Buy Less, Choose Well
As the topic says, one should always choose quality over quantity. Invest your money in high-quality pieces of clothing to have longer periods of ownership, if one possesses great quality products, one naturally will have a prolonged wardrobe.
3. Opt for Sustainable Brands
Purchase those brands that support sustainability and endorse ethical practices, before shopping do proper research to ensure they align with your values.
4. Embrace Second-Hand and Vintage
Buying second-hand or vintage clothing will have a long-lasting impact on the life of garments and ultimately it will reduce the need for new production. Online platforms, consignment shops and thrift stores are amazing places to find such unique pieces.
5. Care for Your Clothes
When you properly take care of your clothes, it tends to extend their lifespan. Consider eco-friendly laundry practices, follow care instructions and repair items wherever needed.
6. Recycle and Upcycle
When you are done with a piece of clothing, recycle it or you can upcycle it into a new one. Many organisations are out there in the market, that are offering their services for old garments.