Tips for making sustainable clothing choices

As customers in the UK become more conscious of the environmental impact and ethical difficulties in the fashion industry, they seek for sustainable clothing solutions. Navigating the world of sustainable fashion can be challenging, but with the correct approach, you can make decisions that benefit both the environment and society. Here are some useful pointers , as well as recommendations for where to purchase and sell used clothing.

What is Fast Fashion??

The quick rise and fall of designs and styles in other words.

Fast fashion is defined by the quick production of low-cost, stylish apparel, and has serious environmental and ethical consequences. This industry contributes to pollution, excessive water consumption, and significant co2 emissions. Furthermore, it frequently results in bad working conditions and unequal wages for labourers in underdeveloped countries. Understanding these consequences is the first step towards more sustainable decisions.

Be the Smart Buyer !

Investing in high-quality, long-lasting items can help you save money and prevent waste. Look for high-quality, long-lasting clothing. Finisterre and People Tree, known for their environmentally friendly and ethical production processes, provide high-quality solutions that prioritise longevity.

When choosing apparel, consider the fabrics. Choose natural fibres like organic cotton, linen, hemp, and bamboo, which use fewer chemicals and water to create. Innovative textiles like Tencel (produced from wood pulp) and recycled materials like polyester from plastic bottles are also wonderful options. Thought and BAM (Bamboo garments) are brands which provide a selection of garments produced from sustainable materials.

Support Ethical Brands ! 

Explore and support brands that prioritise ethical standards and sustainability. Many businesses are now devoted to lowering their environmental impact and implementing fair labour standards. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), and Bluesign, which demonstrate a company's dedication to sustainability and ethical manufacture.

https://www.consciouslifeandstyle.com/sustainable-ethical-fashion-brands-uk/

Consider upcycling !

Before tossing clothing, think about alternate options. Many materials can be recycled as cleaning rags, blankets, or even new garments. If the garment is still in good shape, consider donating it to a charity shop or selling it on sites like eBay or Vinted.

https://www.gumtree.com/p/other-footwear/12-ways-to-upcycle-your-old-clothes/1466002872





Knowledge is Power

The fashion business is constantly growing, with new sustainable methods and technologies being introduced on a regular basis. Stay informed by following sustainable fashion websites such as Eco-Age and The Sustainable Fashion Collective, attending events, and joining eco-friendly communities. Knowledge is power, and the more you know, the better you can make decisions.

https://eco-age.com/



Thrift with Pride !

Purchasing used or vintage clothing is a great method to reduce waste. The UK has a robust market for pre-owned apparel, with several alternatives for purchasing and selling.

- Oxfam Online Shop provides a diverse selection of second-hand clothing, with earnings benefiting various charity organisations. 

https://onlineshop.oxfam.org.uk/vintage

- Depop is a popular app for buying and selling unique used clothing items.

 https://www.depop.com/gb/category/womens/tops/

- Thrift+ an online platform where you can donate or sell gently used clothing and earn credit to spend on the site or donate to your preferred charity.

https://thrift.plus/women/jackets-coats

- Vinted is great for purchasing and selling used clothing, noted for its user-friendly layout and varied selection of items.

https://www.vinted.co.uk/our-platform







A stitch in time saves nine !

Proper care for your clothes can significantly improve their lifespan. Follow the care recommendations on the label, wash in cold water to conserve energy, and air dry if feasible. Learning basic repair skills, such as sewing a button or repairing a small tear, can also help you maintain your clothes in good shape for longer.

Consider the minimalist approach :)

A capsule wardrobe is made up of a small number of adaptable pieces that may be combined to form a variety of ensembles. This minimalist approach pushes you to prioritise quality and functionality, which reduces the need for regular buying. Unfolded, for example, provides advise on how to create a sustainable capsule wardrobe through their intelligently created collections.

Making sustainable clothing selections is about making smarter decisions that help the world. Understanding the impact of your fashion decisions and implementing sustainable practices can help generate positive change in the industry. Begin with tiny steps, and your conscious efforts will eventually add up to make a substantial difference. Embrace the road to a more sustainable wardrobe and reap the rewards of helping to create a more ethical and ecologically friendly fashion business in the UK.

As a Futurelets resident, head to our Reslife event on 30 May to swap clothes.