The fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world, responsible for 10% of global carbon dioxide output. In addition to its environmental impact, the fashion industry is also a major contributor to labor exploitation around the world. However, as consumers we can make ethical choices to reduce our impact. Here are some tips for shopping ethically for clothes:
Buy Less Clothing
- The best thing you can do is simply buy less clothing overall. Before making any new purchase, consider whether you really need that item.
- When you do need to buy clothing, choose versatile, high-quality pieces that you will wear for years to come. Avoid buying into fast fashion trends that will quickly fall apart or go out of style.
Choose Sustainable Fabrics
Natural Materials
- Opt for natural materials like organic cotton, linen, hemp, and wool whenever possible. These fabrics are biodegradable, long-lasting, and don't involve the chemical processes used to manufacture synthetics.
- Support clothing brands that use fabric made from recycled plastic bottles, discarded fabric scraps, and other repurposed materials. This helps divert waste from landfills.
Recycled Polyester Over Virgin Polyester
- If you need performance attributes like moisture wicking that natural fabrics can't provide, at least choose recycled polyester rather than virgin polyester.
- Recycled polyester has less environmental impact since it reuses existing plastic waste rather than creating new plastic materials.
Support Ethical Brands
B Corps & Fair Trade Brands
- Seek out clothing brands that are certified B Corporations, which are legally required to consider environmental and social impacts. Fair Trade brands also adhere to strict standards around worker welfare and environmental sustainability.
Local & Independent Labels
- Support smaller scale, local clothing companies rather than huge corporate conglomerates where accountability can be diffuse and oversight challenging. Local brands are more likely to manufacture domestically as well.
Shop Secondhand & Vintage
- Shopping at secondhand stores helps divert clothing from landfills and slows the demand for new textile production. You can find great quality items for a fraction of retail price at thrift shops.
- Vintage clothing also represents the pinnacle of "slow fashion" - keeping quality garments in use for decades. Plus, vintage has unique character and design.
Care For Clothes Properly
- Caring for your clothing properly keeps them usable for longer, reducing the frequency you need to buy new items.
- Learn how to mend, patch, darn and otherwise repair your garments. Don't toss clothes just because of minor damage. You can often restore them to nearly new.
Conclusion
Making ethical choices when shopping for clothing does require more consideration than simply grabbing whatever is cheap and convenient. However, the benefits for people and planet make the effort worthwhile. By supporting brands that align with your values and making responsible purchase decisions, you can use your wallet to vote for positive change in the fashion industry.
