Sustainability On A Budget: Clothing

The problem with fast fashion

Cheap clothes are the world’s bread and butter, but people don’t consider the strain that fast fashion is putting on the environment every day.

not only do most companies rely on poor laborers that they do not pay enough, but these clothes are also so cheap that buyers only wear them once or twice before throwing them out and buying new. Taking advantage of a helpless labor force and adding tons of garbage to the world is enough of a reason to try to switch to sustainable.

there are many things you can do to be more sustainable. You can buy responsibly sourced jewelry to wear to work, thrift and alter clothing, and many more.

the main argument against buying sustainably is the cost. It is true that it costs more, but these clothes last longer. You can buy one pair of boots for 200 dollars that last eight years versus 60 dollars for boots four times, and they each last a season.

still, it is a lot of money to put down at one time. Here are some tips on how to buy sustainably on a budget.

Buying secondhand

thrifting has grown in popularity in the past few years, and it isn’t hard to see why. People have found amazing items for a fraction of their original cost, including expensive brands like gucci and prada if you know where to look. It is usually even cheaper than fast fashion, making sustainability affordable for absolutely anyone. It also saves clothing from going to the dump. Recently, thrifters have gotten famous for buying and altering clothing. Remember, though: you should only buy what you need, so there is something for others.

Buying for versatility

part of the fast fashion industry is ever-changing trends. That encouraged people to buy more, more often. If you resist the temptation to buy every trend that pops up on your instagram and buy versatile pieces that will go with any season, you will save money and the environment. Although the pieces may cost more upfront, if you use them for a long time, you will save money.

Buying recycled

polyester is now a common material for clothing, but did you know it can be made out of recycled plastic? Many small brands have been shifting production to recycled polyester clothing, but they aren’t mainstream. This production saves plastic from staying in the ocean and going into landfills. These garments are more expensive than fast fashion, and this certainly is a pricier option for sustainability, but if you have the means, this is a great way to help the environment.

Conclusion

of course, there is no perfect solution. You have to throw away clothes some time, and then they will end up in a landfill. Realize this, and try anyway. Pick the best solution available to you; it will end up making a big difference to the planet in the long run.