Tips on how to shop more sustainably!

Did you know that the United States contributes more than 14 million tons of textile waste each year?

With the newest culture of fast fashion, retailers are able to keep up with the quick shifting demand of new trends, by mass producing and offering new styles at cheaper costs.

These clothes aren’t intended to last very long at all. As consumers, we are more opt to throwing out cheaply made garments as each new season of trends come around..

Fast fashion has caused a rapid increase in our global textile waste.

So the next time you shop for a new outfit, consider these easy buying habits to extend the lifespan of clothing, and help reduce textile waste!
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1. Buy from local, sustainable brands and boutiques!
Brands who identify as “sustainable”, have made it a priority to create clothing that does not leave a heavy waste footprint on our planet. These brands have considered things like; the amount of wasted and unused textiles during production, reducing the amount of toxic chemicals used to treat and dye fabrics, using minimal and recyclable packaging for their products, and they consider the waste factors that are involved with importing and outsourcing manufacturing. (USA made!)

2. Thrift store shopping!
It’s hip, it’s trendy, it’s vintage and it’s used! Second hand clothing has become a very cool way to shop. My friends and I often set up thrift shopping dates and spend a few hours rummaging through the local thrift stores. We particularly enjoy fitting room crack ups as we try on rad 80’s gear. Shoulder pads and all! For those one-of-a-kinders, thrift shops can offer an amazing assortment of vintage and modern clothes to showcase your unique styles! You’re giving new life to unwanted clothes that might have gone straight into the trash can!

3. Buy and sell pre-loved threads with virtual boutiques!
E-commerce has jumped on the trend of second hand clothing, and it has become a huge hit! Online stores like Poshmark, Threadflip and Twice (for more high-end swag) offer consumers a way to not only buy trendy, second hand clothing at a discounted price, but you can also sell your unwanted clothes and make some money! This is a great option for online shoppers!

4. Swap with your friends!
You already know what cute clothes are in your BFF’s closet. Next time you need a hot new outfit for a night on the town, go shopping in a friend’s closet. It’s freeeee! My friends often host clothing swapping parties when our wardrobes get too full. Add some wine and cheese and you’ve got yourself a swanky little shindig, and some free clothes! It’s a great way to mix up your style, and get rid of some clothes that have been sitting in the back of your closet, collecting dust.