Sustainability in fashion begins with YOU

Sustainability in fashion begins with YOU

In the fashion industry, sustainability is becoming an increasingly important concept. Manufacturers are gradually grasping the need for more sustainable practices. However, consumers still need to deepen their understanding of how they can practically become agents of change. In fact, sustainability fashion begins with YOU! It is within this context that, initiatives such as the AfroSustainable Fashion Initiative are established to increase awareness of the potential harm of fashion to the environment, spark a change from industry actors and inform the public about responsible production and consumption practices. 

The change starts with you and me! 

“Fashion that is not detrimental to the environment” is one of the most straightforward definitions of eco-fashion. That is not difficult in any way, is it? Being eco-fashionable typically doesn’t necessitate making significant adjustments to one’s lifestyle, which is one of its main advantages. Even starting small is an option. The following points explain key recommendations for fashion consumers becoming more ecologically friendly. Also, it’s probably simpler than you imagine. 

1. Become a wise shopper! 

Being conscious of what we already have in our wardrobe is the best method to prevent us from making poor purchasing decisions, particularly ones based on emotion. This will enable us to purchase goods that truly enhance our wardrobe and that we are more likely to treasure and use frequently. But above all, practice careful shopping. Consider the materials your clothing is composed of and how you plan to wear it.  

When shopping for new garments, avoid brands with worldwide production techniques. Very few among them are environmentally conscious. Choose products that use organic fibers and, if you must have a cloth made of plastic-based textiles, choose brands that use recycled materials. An increasing number of fashion designers make a deliberate effort to create eco-friendly outfits. Take the time to identify them and support their businesses and the planet by acquiring these products. 

2. Be responsible wash consciously. 

It has been established that washing your clothes can harm the environment significantly. Washing less is the first, easiest, and most effective way to prevent this. Clothing like trousers, coats, and sweaters may only require occasional washing, unlike common items like underwear and socks, which must be washed after each usage.  

Another piece of advice is to explore ways to deodorize clothing without washing it. But ultimately, every piece of clothing will require washing. The safest approach is to wash them thoroughly when it’s time while following the care label directions. 

3. One garment: 9 lives. 

Indeed, a garment can be easily recycled, in contrast to how it is now done. Before you throw away a piece of clothing, consider whether you can’t find an ecological designer nearby or give it a second life with a little imagination. Clothes can be made from recycled materials. Offer it to a friend or to organizations that assist underprivileged people to extend its life. If the clothing is severely harmed, though, tossing it away is your only option. However, most of your garments are composed of synthetic fibers, which are not biodegradable and will just build up in landfills if you discard them in the usual trash. Put them rather in a trash container for recycling textiles. 

Fashion that is environmentally friendly is becoming increasingly important and YOU are the first step toward achieving that. Environmental concerns have emerged as an important, if not critical, component of the consumer purchasing process. It is time for us to contribute to this cause by making simple changes like the ones we suggested. It’s time to be both fashionable and environmentally conscious: it’s time to be Eco fashionable.