I think we can all agree that it can be very disheartening when we try to be sustainable and ethical in our shopping practices. Put simply, the fashion industry doesn’t make it easy for us. Unethical practices are deep rooted in the supply chain, all the way from manufacturing to cotton picking. It can take extensive research to find a sustainable and ethical brand that you feel meets your fashion needs, and even then the prices are often way past what the student budget allows. It can be very easy to feel guilt. In a world where social responsibility is becoming increasingly prominent and publicised, any ‘wrong’ move can feel extremely exposing.
Whilst it is important to recognise the inhumane working conditions in which some of our clothes are manufactured as well as the damage that the fashion industry does to the environment, it is also important to recognise that you do not hold all of the responsibility for resolving these issues. I’ll never forget the awkward silences and embarrassed faces in my business tutorial when we all looked at the labels on our clothes to see where our clothes were made whilst learning about modern slavery in business. In short, overall the class wasn’t wearing very ethical clothing.
My main message is, quite simply, trying your best is more than good enough. One person can’t fix the whole fashion industry, which yes, does need fixing. However, taking the small but manageable and realistic approaches to purchasing clothes and accessories does play its part. From the wise words of Tesco’s, “every little helps”.
Here are some tips and easy ways to make your wardrobe and future fashion more ethical and sustainable:
1). Upcycling
I don’t think upcycling is often thought of as an option by most people. I personally discovered my love for upcycling during the first lockdown. We have a sewing machine, and i used that to turn leggings into a top and a polo neck into a cardigan. However, you don’t need a sewing machine to be able to do this. With a mere needle and thread, a lot can be achieved. Personally, I’m a big fan of upcycling. Not only is it good for the environment, I also find it to be very relaxing and feel a great sense of achievement after bringing new life to my clothes.
2). Charity shops, vintage shops, Depop and more.
Charity shops and vintage shops are great ways to find good quality clothes and accessories (never forget accessories). Not only are the items generally in good condition, but if you’re personal fashion sense is more vintage, shopping at these shops is also a great way to find items that suit your style. As well as helping the environment, shopping at charity shops also benefits other causes, so this method of finding new clothes honestly couldn’t be recommended more highly.
There is also the option of buying clothes off of Depop, eBay, Vinted, Etsy and other online second-hand retailers. This is a way in which you can help the environment but also support smaller and independent businesses.
3). Clothes swaps (first clothes swap shop opened in London).
I believe clothes swaps to be one of the most underrated ways of living a sustainable fashionable lifestyle. Clothes swaps are an amazing way to find pre-loved clothes and give them a new home. If this is something you’re interested in, make sure to come to the Fashion Society’s clothes swap!
I hope that this blog has been useful in showing you that there are more ethical and sustainable ways to style ourselves; and there are also ways in which these choices can benefit third parties (such as buying from a charity shop). My main message to you though is don’t be hard on yourself and be realistic. It’s important to remember that you do not have all the responsibility to fix the unethical and polluting nature of the fashion industry, but by doing your bit, with the budget you have, you are making a difference.
- Annabelle Dennis x
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