5 Simple Ways to Make Your Wardrobe More Sustainable
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important topic in today's world. The fashion industry, in particular, has come under scrutiny for its negative impact on the environment. But you don't have to sacrifice style for sustainability. There are plenty of easy ways to make your wardrobe more eco-friendly without breaking the bank. In this post, we'll share five simple ways you can make your wardrobe more sustainable and reduce your environmental impact, with references.
- Buy Second-Hand:
One of the easiest ways to make your wardrobe more sustainable is to buy second-hand clothing. Shopping at thrift stores or online marketplaces like eBay and Depop can be a great way to find unique pieces at a fraction of the cost. Plus, you'll be keeping clothes out of landfills and reducing the demand for new clothing.
According to a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the second-hand clothing market has the potential to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry by 30-40% (Reference: "A new textiles economy: Redesigning fashion’s future" 2017)
- Invest in Quality:
Another way to make your wardrobe more sustainable is to invest in high-quality clothes that will last for years. Cheaper, fast fashion items are often made from lower-quality materials and are more likely to fall apart after a few wears. By investing in higher-quality clothes, you'll save money in the long run and reduce the number of clothes you need to buy.
Investing in natural fibers like silk is a great way to ensure quality and durability in your clothing. Silk is a luxurious and durable fiber that can last for years with proper care. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), natural fibers like silk are more durable and long-lasting than synthetic fibers, making them a more sustainable choice in the long run (Reference: "The environmental impacts of the clothing we wear" 2015)
- Repair and Upcycle:
If you have clothes that are looking a bit worse for wear, don't throw them away! Instead, try to repair or upcycle them. Simple repairs like patching holes or replacing buttons can extend the life of your clothes. And if you're feeling crafty, you can try upcycling your clothes into something new.
According to a study by the University of Cambridge, extending the life of clothes by just nine extra months of active use can reduce their environmental impact by 20-30% (Reference: "Valuing the Role of Secondary Materials in the Textile Cycle" 2013)
- Shop from Sustainable Brands:
Another way to make your wardrobe more sustainable is to shop from brands that prioritize sustainability. Look for brands that use eco-friendly materials, employ ethical manufacturing practices, and have a strong commitment to reducing their environmental impact.
Especially brands that specialize in natural fibers like silk, that are sustainable and ethically produced. According to a report by the Ethical Fashion Forum, sustainable fashion brands are becoming more popular among consumers, with a growing number of people looking for environmentally-friendly and ethically-made clothing (Reference: "The State of Sustainable Fashion" 2018)
- Wash Clothes Less:
Finally, one of the easiest ways to make your wardrobe more sustainable is to simply wash your clothes less. Washing clothes releases microfibers into the ocean, which is a huge problem for marine life.
According to a study by the University of California, Santa Barbara, an estimated 1.5 million tons of microfibers are released into the ocean every year from washing clothes (Reference: "Microplastics in the Seas" 2011). By washing your clothes less, you'll be reducing the amount of microfibers that end up in the ocean.
Conclusion:
Making your wardrobe more sustainable doesn't have to be hard. By following these five simple tips, you can reduce your environmental impact and still look and feel great. Try incorporating one or two of these tips into your wardrobe and see how they work for you. Remember, small changes can add up to make a big difference. Investing in quality clothing like silk is an excellent way to ensure that your wardrobe is both sustainable and stylish.
