Each year, fashion contributes negatively to the environment. According to Business Insider, the fashion industry produces roughly 10 percent of the world’s carbon emissions. The industry is the second-largest consumer of water, and pollutes our oceans with harmful microplastics. Additionally, most textiles produced ultimately end up in landfills. Fortunately, there are many ways that you, as a consumer, can decrease the negative environmental impacts of this industry. To learn how to create a more sustainable wardrobe, continue reading.
Do Your Research
An effective way to start creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly wardrobe is by being a more conscientious shopper. It is important to take time to research the brands from which you purchase.
Try to avoid buying clothing from fast fashion brands that engage in wasteful practices and sell low quality pieces that will wear out in a matter of months. This clothing may be inexpensive, but it comes at a high cost to the environment. Plus, having to re-purchase items because they wear out quickly isn’t financially beneficial in the long run.
Instead, try to purchase clothing from brands that engage in sustainable production practices and create clothing that lasts longer. Or consider purchasing clothing secondhand from thrift stores to prevent it from ending up in landfills.
Take Care of Your Clothes
Taking care of your clothing is another way to create a more sustainable wardrobe. Follow laundry instructions on their tags, let clothes air dry instead of using the dryer, and conduct small repairs when possible.
Reducing the amount of clothing you buy is the best thing you can do for the environment. This helps decrease the waste that occurs during the production and transportation process.
Try Creating a Capsule Wardrobe
To pare down your closet and still have enough clothing to create a wide variety of stylish outfits, consider putting together a capsule wardrobe.
A capsule wardrobe is essentially a collection of clothing pieces that are easily mixed and matched and can be augmented with seasonal items. When you create a versatile collection, you eliminate the need to constantly buy new pieces to create different looks. Creating a capsule wardrobe is a great way to make your style more sustainable.