Earth Day | Sustainable Shopping Tips
What exactly is Earth Day? And why do we celebrate it?
According to EarthDay.org, it’s a time to celebrate our planet and also raise public awareness about the environmental challenges it faces.
As a fashion and beauty enthusiast, I make an effort to do my part. Especially when it comes to sustainable fashion. During the pandemic, my interest in the topic peaked. I read books about it, watched documentaries, etc and since then, I’ve become a better shopper. It wasn’t easy at all because I love to shop, but I knew in the long run, the benefits would be worth it. So I’ve been doing this for about 5 years now and here’s what I’ve learned. These tips might be helpful if you’re looking to start a similar journey:
- Less clothes = more creativity: When I cut back on shopping, I got tired of wearing the same outfits so I learned how to create different ones by mixing and matching pieces.
- Thrifting is fun: Secondhand stores have great items. I look for clothes with tags or slightly used items. You can shop at brick and mortars like Goodwill, The Salvation Army or Savers. If you prefer to shop online, try Poshmark, Vestiaire Collective or ThredUp.
- Save $$$: Think about it. For example, if you shop at Zara once a month and spend a minimum of $100 every time you go, that’s at least $1,200 a year. Instead, you could put those funds in a High Yield Savings account and watch your money grow.
- All fabrics aren’t created equal: Natural fabric (cotton, silk, linen) tends to last longer than synthetic/manmade fabric (polyester, acrylic, spandex).
- Where it’s made: Pick up any clothing item and look at the tag. Where was it made? When I started reading about fast fashion production, I was immediately disgusted. Reports have shown that garment workers in developing countries sometimes work in hazardous conditions and get paid an unlivable wage. Check out the documentary, “The True Cost” to learn more about this and the Rana Plaza collapse. An eight-story garment factory that collapsed and killed over 1,100 people in 2013.
- Cost per wear: Before you buy an item, think about how many times you’re going to wear it. Trends come every season so if you see something you like that will get a lot of wear, then it’s a good piece to buy. But if you’re getting it to be in style with everyone else, then take the time to reconsider if it’s worth it. Investing in ‘cost per wear’ pieces saves money and closet space.
- Give yourself grace: It’s hard to cut back on shopping when you’ve been doing it for so long. So I say, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time curating your closet and it will all come together.
Happy Earth Day!
