How to Shop This Season’s Biggest Trends — Sustainably

Think! Shop Responsibly

Let Michelle Obama, Will.I.am & Pharrell Williams be an example to us all. These stars are spearheading the attack to push ethical trading practices towards fashion. Yes it is possible to have a fully sustainable wardrobe but we know that it is very difficult. Unfortunately, us mere mortals do not have the same sort of income as the stars above and sadly unethical fashion doesn’t come cheap.

If you want to start shopping more responsibly then you will need to do some research on what brands are flying the ethical flag. Sourcing and manufacturing are things to look out for. Sadly, this means many firm favourites we ladies love will not be an option if you’re taking this task on. As said before finances could become an issue as shopping ethical is, at the moment, very expensive so if you want to make a change then starting with a few items could be a great way to start out.

Still, a greener wardrobe is definitely worth your time, effort and money, even if you only purchase a few items to start out with. According to Business of Fashion, fashion is one of the most polluting industries, second only to oil. It also produces more carbon emissions than international flights. And then there’s the human rights aspect. Remember when, less than five years ago, a building in Bangladesh’s Rana Plaza — home to five garment factories — collapsed and killed over 1,100 workers? This was devastating news and uncovered some horrible truths regarding the way the fashion industry is treating its employees in some parts of the world.

You can be part of the movement that is working against things like the tragedy in Bangladesh happening again by simply changing your buying habits and who you are shopping with. We are not saying stop shopping completely but small changes can make a difference going forward. A good tip to help you shop sustainably is to shop vintage. And who doesn’t love that anyway? Winning!