Fashion plays a major role in the global economy, however, it is one of the most resource-intensive industries in the world. Nowadays, we are disconnected from the value of our clothes. When we buy more and more, this signals the fashion industry to produce at the pace of our demands. This is typically the case of fast fashion, which is mass-producing clothes at a very fast pace and selling at a low cost. The true cost of our clothes, and their environmental and social impact, is largely out of our sight, but that does not mean it does not exist.
First of all, what is sustainable fashion and why is it important? Sustainable fashion is fostering a fashion industry that takes a long-term approach to the design, manufacturing, and consumption of clothes and accessories (good on you). It is important because, at its core, it aims to respect people and the environment all along the fashion supply chain. It aims to meet today’s needs, as well as for future generations.
However, the reality is that the fashion industry has a huge footprint. One of the reasons is as consumers, our demand is rising. To counteract this, we have to start reducing our consumption and fight against fast fashion.
Six Solutions to Fight Fast Fashion and Reduce Consumption
Everyone can promote sustainable fashion by shopping less, choosing better, or buying second-hand clothes; and this is where faircado can help! Faircado is a free browser extension that pops up with the best second-hand alternatives to what you’re searching for online. And helps you save time, money and CO2. Whether you choose to shop less, choose better options or try out second-hand, here are seven solutions that can help you fight fast fashion:
Shop from Sustainable & Ethical Fashion Brands
Paying attention to where you shop is one of the best ways to ensure your clothing choices are not harming the environment. Doing your research and supporting ethical and sustainable brands helps ensure that your carbon footprint is low, and promotes fair working practices for the people behind your clothes.
Buy Less Often & Buy High Quality
“To be happy, you need to have the newest styles in your closet.” This is what fast-fashion retailers have convinced us to believe, but it is time to think differently. Fast fashion items are usually crafted from cheap materials that break easily, a tactic that keeps us buying for more. To fight this fast fashion problem, choose better alternatives that are of higher quality from brands that care about extending the life of your clothes.
Donate or Sell Gently Used Clothing
When you have outgrown your favorite pair of jeans, or maybe moved away from a cold climate and have more sweaters than you need, you can give your clothes a chance to a second life. The first option is to sell your gently used clothing. Participate in your local flea market or sell them through online platforms. Not only are you giving your clothes a second life, but you are also making money on the side! The second choice is to donate them. Drop them at a local charity or a thrift store accepting used clothing. Just make sure that they are washed and in good condition before you sell or donate them.
Host a Clothing Swap
Another way of extending the life of your clothes is holding or attending a clothing swap. Clothing swaps can be a great way to get access to new clothes without putting in the money or effort it takes to buy new items.
Consider Second-hand
If you enjoy shopping often to refresh your wardrobe, we suggest you try second-hand clothes since it has countless benefits for the planet and your wallet. Thrift stores or second-hand online markets like Faircado offer unique and vintage styles at prices that are more affordable than buying new ones. These stores also make it easy for consumers to take a stand against overproduction and lower their carbon footprints.
Repurpose Old Clothing
Make new things from very old or damaged garments. Take the matter into your own hands and create something new through repurposing. For example, you can use old t-shirts as cleaning cloths, thus reducing your need for paper towels. Or you can also try making stuffed animals or dolls from items you already have at home.
