Hi all,
For 2019 I’ve chosen not to buy any new clothes instead opting to shop second hand at charity shops, or on Depop. Additionally I’ve attended a few Swap Shop events which are great ways to swap out pieces from your wardrobe that you may have grown tired of but that are in perfect condition.
Waste from the fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters and negative influence on the climate. There’s the mass production of cheap, synthetic clothes and the waste that this generates as well as the resources it uses up. Don’t forget polyester is basically plastic! So when we wash our clothes micro plastics are being leached into the water system and ultimately into the sea/ocean. Then there’s the fact that most clothes are only worn a handful of times and many end up in landfill. There’s also the issue of labour rights as these clothes are produced so quickly and cheaply.
Depop is a great way to clear out underworn pieces that are in perfect condition. I picked up two pieces for events this year from Depop and they were amazing both in value and the dresses themselves. If you have an event coming up or are looking to refresh your wardobe check out Depop or a charity shop before hitting the high street. I’ve even bought Lululemons on Depop for half the price as in store. Great for all you bargain hunters out there. For a look at my depop listing here’s the link.
Downsizing your wardrobe can make you more creative, help you identify your style and speed up getting dressed. Clothes that are sitting in your wardrobe not being worn are benefitting no one. Give them a new lease of life by customising them or bringing them to a swap shop or charity shop. Its one of the elements of zero waste that we can all easily adapt right now.
Shopping less and caring more for your clothes can go a long way in reducing your environmental impact.
- Wash clothes less, at lower spin and reduced temperature (30 degrees)
- Swap clothes with friends, or attend organised swap shops
- Invest in quality over quantity
- Try think if you need an item rather than want an item for the majority of your clothes purchases
- Buy from sustainable clothing brands
- Add your wardrobe to sites like nuwardrobe (where you can make your wardrobe available for wear by others, like a rental scheme)
- Repair holes or loose stitches asap so to preserve the life of the garment
For swap shop events check out:
For sustainable/ethical clothing check out:
Documentaries on Fast Fashion
Have a watch of The True Cost to see more about the social and environmental impact of fast fashion
Have any more suggestions please comment below or email me at info@greenoutlook.ie
