I love putting together outfits. Clothes shopping, especially online, is kind of a weakness for me. But by now we all know that fast fashion is bad. And clothing is one of those things that eventually need to be replaced. So how do we practice eco fashion while clothes shopping?
In celebration of having our solar panels installed this week, I’m sharing earth friendly tips every day of the week. Today I want to share what I’ve learned about eco fashion and what I’ve managed to practice.
Utilize a Capsule Wardrobe.
Essentially, make sure all of the pieces in your wardrobe can be interchanged. This way you can create endless combinations of outfits.
Years ago, my pcp told me that Autumnal colors were for me. As far as I know, she has no styling or fashion advice. But it stuck. I valued her opinion and so it’s been gospel ever since.
I gravitate towards muted/greyed shades of yellow, orange, red, purple, green, and brown. More specifically: Ochre, Mustard, Rust, Blush, Chestnut, Olive, Burgundy. Because the colors have similar undertones, they mix and match easily.
Another theme within my wardrobe is floral prints. I can do pattern on pattern for drama or a pop of something with just one piece.
Know your colors, choose your pattern, keep neutral basics to swap in and out.
Recycle and Shop Online.
Once upon a time the eco fashion option was thrift stores and yard sales. And you just had to hope something that was cute also fit. Thankfully we live in 2022 and we can buy anything on the internet.
Platforms like Thred Up and Poshmark, let us experience the same online shopping we are used to. It’s made refilling my closet easier as my size has fluctuated over the years. It’s been easier on my wallet and the environment.
To make shopping easier,
- keep your measurements handy so you can compare them against what’s listed.
- note what cuts and colors are your cuts and colors.
- filter for what you’re looking for, maintain focus.
I’ve bought everything from jackets to boots. And everything has held up beautifully.
What’s better? You can list your own clothing on Poshmark and send in clothes to ThredUP. Either way, you get paid when items sell. Keeping the circle going.
I’ve recently opened a boutique section to my own online store. I’ve listed clothing that is no longer my size that’s still in great shape without the added cost of a middleman. Use EcoWeek20 for 20% off everything in my online store.
Buying New? Check the Fabric Material.
Cotton, linen, bamboo, hemp, lyocell, tencel are touted as being long lasting and biodegradable. Avoid polyester, we don’t need more of that filling our closets, waterways, and landfills.
Leaders in the eco fashion industry like Pact (Get 20% off with this link) and Patagonia have made it easier to find and buy new eco conscious clothing and accessories. I recommend checking out this article from Earth Friendly Tips for in depth information on eco fashion brands. I have little experience with it myself and they do a really good job of explaining the layers to it.
Buy Less.
Of course, the most earth friendly option is to keep wearing what we have. It’s not the most exciting suggestion. I know we all deep down know this to some degree. It’s hard not doing something we want to do.
That’ll wrap things up from me today. I hope these tips were helpful in guiding your eco fashion journey. Be sure to tune in tomorrow for earth friendly household items I use and love.
