Maybe you’ve been a reader of mine for a while, or maybe you’re new here (Hi, hello). Over time my blog has become about a lot more than just vegan recipes. It’s about individual passions, choices and how they effect the world around us. In today’s post: a glance into sustainable fashion.
The Rise of Slow Fashion
In in recent years, environmental awareness has increasingly become a topic of focus especially in the realm of fashion. Perhaps, like me, you saw a documentary like The True Cost and knew you too had to join the shift towards ethical clothing practices. However, the harsh reality of fast fashion should never take away from those of us who identity as fashionistas or aspire to become one. Self-expression is everything. Read on to discover that it is one hundred percent possible to find your style while shopping sustainably.
As a kid who’s outfits consisted of a significant amount of “hand-me-downs” I always felt lacking compared to my peers because my clothes weren’t the latest and greatest. But by middle school and high school I would eagerly await the weekends my best friend would clean out her closet because I’d get a whole new wardrobe of clothes that were in style; for 2013 anyways. Eventually, I was introduced to the magical world of shopping secondhand while volunteering at a local nonprofit thrift store. Fast forward to now and you’ll probably find me in 2nd Street Thrift on any given Sunday.
Finding What Fits
The ultimate joy of fashion for me is experimentation, but that doesn’t mean I started off knowing exactly what I was doing. In fact, it took me until recently to discover my personal style (probably something to do with my fully developed brain. I’m turning 26 next month, ahhh). Only through trials and errors did I get to this point where I have narrowed down a personal aesthetic. When you look good, you feel good and let me tell you people truly take notice.
Don’t worry my baby thrifters Mother Maddi knows best and I’ll be outlining bellow some tips and tricks to help you navigate the wonderful world of sustainable fashion. Before anything else, I really hope to emphasize the importance of building outfits from what you already own and investing in pieces that you’ll want to wear over and over again!
- Audit Your Closet: Before embarking on a sustainable shopping spree, take a close look at your existing clothes. Identify pieces that resonate with you, and consider why you love them (think the KonMari Method). Take note of your go-to colors, patterns, and styles. This self-audit will serve as a foundation for building a sustainable wardrobe that reflects your unique personality.
- Define Your Style: Understanding your personal style is crucial when shopping sustainably. Are you drawn to classic, minimalist pieces, or do you prefer bold, eclectic styles? Recognizing your preferences helps you make intentional choices, ensuring that each new addition to your wardrobe aligns with your aesthetic. Using a Pinterest board or your favorite influencer for style inspo is a great start, but remember this is your style you’re cultivating.
- Prioritize Versatility: When shopping sustainably, opt for versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. Anything black, a well-fitted pair of jeans, or versatile shoes (I recommend one pair of sneakers, boots, & heels) are perfect examples. Prioritizing versatility not only reduces the number of items you need but also encourages a more sustainable and mindful approach to fashion.
- Shop Secondhand and Vintage: Exploring thrift stores, consignment shops, and online vintage stores like Depop can unearth hidden treasures that align with your style. Secondhand shopping not only reduces the demand for new production but also adds unique, one-of-a-kind pieces to your wardrobe. Embrace the thrill of the hunt and let each find tell a story.
- Invest in Statement Pieces: When it comes to sustainable fashion, quality often trumps quantity. Invest in statement pieces that make a lasting impression. Prioritize comfort without compromising style. A well-crafted, comfortable statement jacket or pant can effortlessly elevate any outfit while standing the test of time.
- Mix and Match: Building outfits based on what you already own is one of my favorite sustainable practices that encourages creativity. Experiment with different combinations to breathe new life into old favorites. Let’s help normalize rewearing clothes! You’ll be surprised at the endless possibilities that already lie within your closet.
- Consider Ethical Brands: Last but not least, when adding new items to your collection, explore brands with a commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. Make sure to watch out for the o-so-terrible greenwashing! Look for certifications, such as Fair Trade or B Corp, and delve into the brand’s transparency regarding their supply chain and environmental impact. I’ll have to do a separate post with some of my favorite brands.
If you’ve made it this far I’m super impressed and excited to see you put these tips to the test! Finding your sustainable style is not about adhering to the latest trends; it’s a journey of self-discovery and responsible consumerism. By auditing your existing wardrobe, defining your style, prioritizing versatility, and investing in statement pieces, you can absolutely build a sustainable closet that not only aligns with your personality but also keeps Mother Earth in mind. Embrace the joy of conscious fashion and let your style reflect the positive change you wish to see in the world.
I’d love to see all your sustainable fits on Instagram. Tag or DM me. Thanks for reading. Love you all!!!
Xoxo Maddi
