[ECO]Breaking the Cycle: Understanding Sustainable Fashion

[Eco 0]

This is the hidden content, please

• Sign In
• or
• Sign Up

This is the hidden content, please

• Sign In
• or
• Sign Up

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Breaking the Cycle: Understanding Sustainable Fashion

This is the hidden content, please

• Sign In
• or
• Sign Up

represents a holistic approach to clothing production and consumption that respects both people and the planet. At its core, it’s all about minimising environmental harm by reducing waste, conserving resources, and ensuring fair labour practices across every step of the supply chain. Traditional fast fashion contributes significantly to pollution, water usage, and greenhouse gas emissions, with millions of tons of textile waste ending up in landfills every year. 

By contrast,

This is the hidden content, please

• Sign In
• or
• Sign Up

is a principle which aims to create garments that last longer and have a smaller ecological footprint. As consumers, our choices (whether we purchase a new shirt or repair a pair of jeans) directly impact how the industry evolves. Even a single conscientious purchase signals to brands that ethical and eco-friendly products are in demand.

Materials

One of the most impactful steps you can take toward a more sustainable wardrobe is choosing materials wisely. Organic cotton, recycled polyester, and natural fibres like hemp, linen, and bamboo are generally considered more environmentally friendly than conventional alternatives. Organic cotton, for instance, avoids

This is the hidden content, please

• Sign In
• or
• Sign Up

, while recycled polyester gives plastic waste a second life, reducing the need for virgin resources. 

Hemp, linen, and bamboo are fast-growing crops that require fewer inputs, making them excellent low-impact choices. On the flip side, synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic shed microplastics into our waterways when washed, harming marine life. Whenever possible, opt for fabrics that lessen pollution and conserve vital resources like water and energy.

Mindful Shopping

Adopting more mindful shopping approaches is another powerful way to influence the fashion landscape. Instead of buying trend-driven pieces that fall out of style within months, focus on fewer, higher-quality items designed to stand the test of time. Well-made garments may cost more upfront, but they often save money in the long run and generate less waste. Another key strategy is to shop second-hand and vintage. Charity shops and online resale platforms are treasure troves of unique items that extend the life cycle of clothing. You might even find some

This is the hidden content, please

• Sign In
• or
• Sign Up

buried amongst the old vinyl records and toys.

If you do choose to buy new, look for brands that are transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing practices. Ethical labels often provide information on their materials, labour conditions, and environmental commitments, allowing you to make informed decisions. By selecting timeless, versatile designs, you create a wardrobe that stays relevant for years, further reducing fashion waste.

Circular Fashion

Equally important is embracing circular fashion principles, which focus on keeping garments in circulation for as long as possible. Start by repairing your clothing rather than discarding it at the first sign of wear. Simple fixes like sewing on a missing button or patching a tear can dramatically extend a garment’s lifespan. 

Participating in clothing swaps or hosting a swap party is another fun, cost-effective way to refresh your wardrobe without generating new demand. If you’re unsure about buying an item you might only wear once, consider renting or sharing instead. Finally, proper garment care such as washing on a gentle cycle, air-drying when possible, and storing garments correctly, can significantly reduce wear and tear and

This is the hidden content, please

• Sign In
• or
• Sign Up

.

The post

This is the hidden content, please

• Sign In
• or
• Sign Up

appeared first on

This is the hidden content, please

• Sign In
• or
• Sign Up

.

This is the hidden content, please

• Sign In
• or
• Sign Up