Have you read up on the fast fashion industry and learned of its terrible effects on the environment? If not, I encourage you to read my introductory blog post, which will provide a basic understanding of it. Once you know more about fast fashion you may wonder how you can consume more sustainably. Here are some of the best ways that you can combat fast fashion:
- Shop second-hand. Rather than contributing to the excess textile waste we already have, consider shopping second hand. Not only will this be an alternative to directly supporting the industry, it will also prevent more clothes from going to landfills. Local thrift stores and consignment shops are fantastic for this. Online shops like eBay, Poshmark, and Depop can also be a source for nicer secondhand items.
- Rehome or donate. When you no longer want to keep a garment, try to find it a new home. Do not throw out garments unless they are completely unwearable. Otherwise, try to find someone else who will love the item as you once did.
- Learn the basics of sewing. Simple sewing skills come in handy when an old garment needs to be repaired. Learning to reattach buttons or patch up holes can help prevent textiles from being trashed, and new ones being purchased. There are dozens of online resources that can help you learn the basics. Or, you could ask someone you know to teach you. More people than you think have already mastered this skill.
- Upcycle or repurpose. If a garment is no longer wearable or fixable, you may be able to find a new purpose for it. Using old t-shirts as cleaning rags, for example. Find a purpose, get creative! Try to avoid unnecessarily contributing to the landfills of textile waste.
- Consider saving up for a sustainable brand. This route can get pricey, however, opting for an ethical and sustainable company can be more beneficial than you think. Some of my favorite eco-friendly companies are Patagonia, Restoration, Parade, The North Face, and Athleta. You truly pay for what you get.
- Opt for timeless pieces. If you do end up having to consume fast fashion, try to avoid pieces that are trendy in the moment. Because as soon as the trend leaves, you most likely will not want to use it anymore. This just contributes to overconsumption. Instead, shop for more basic or timeless pieces– things that will not go out of style.
This list is complied to help you get started on a greener path. No one is asking you to completely stop shopping fast fashion, since almost all clothing companies are. Instead, be more conscious when you are shopping. Think about the company behind the garment, or what the garment is even made of. Do not purchase excessive amounts of unnecessary clothing or clothing that will quickly lose trendiness. At the end of the day, any step towards sustainable fashion is a step in the right direction.
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Blog post contributed by McKenna Kundis, student at Chesapeake Public Schools and Girl Scout Gold Award candidate.