Conscious Closets
Sustainability. Buying Green. Buying Clean. We hear the buzz words, see the campaigns, swipe through the IG posts giving us tips on how we can be conscious consumers. But what do these ideals really look like in everyday life with our wardrobes?
Over the years, the definition of sustainability has shifted based on subject. As it relates to fashion, we’ve seen a rise in brands that have committed to equitable supply chain and ethically sourced materials. In theory, shopping at one of these brands is generally a leap in the right direction, and at the same time, it is just one of the many ways sustainability can make its way to our closets. Especially for those of us who don’t necessarily have $48 to spend on a basic tee (spoiler alert: a majority of the US population).
My personal belief is that most of us have the ability to take a more thoughtful approach to building our wardrobes no matter what price point we’re working with. I’ll also take this opportunity to note that I firmly do not believe in shaming folks for buying “new” or shopping from fast fashion brands. IMO, it is completely unrealistic (and unfair) to expect a population - where over 30 million people are living in poverty - to all of a sudden commit to spending essential income on clothes in the name of sustainability. That said, I do believe those of us who have the privilege of prioritizing parameters around our closets can and should; in ways that are practical and applicable for our lifestyles.
For example, when I think of building a sustainable wardrobe, I think of a timeless, versatile collection of items that can be used year after year, event after event. A few things I consider while buying items, whether secondhand or new:
Multi-functionality: Can I transition this piece from season to season? Ex: Can this button-up be a regular shirt in the Fall? A second layer in the Winter over a tee? Knotted in the front as a crop top in the Summer?
Fabric & Condition: -What’s the quality & condition of the fabric? Does this seem like it can withstand normal wear and tear? I’m not a textile expert and feel it’s generally a crapshoot when it comes to fabric longevity… I have some vintage poly blends that have been through it and still going strong,
Versatility: Can I style this top for work, brunch, and special occasions? Or any combination of the 3?
Before I take anything to the register - secondhand or new, in person or virtual - it has to hit those 3 points and it’s taken years of consistent effort to fine tune this habit. I say that less to boast, but more to highlight how “sustainability” is so much more than a $48 ethically sourced tee or a trip to the Goodwill (although both of those things are great!).
We all have learning and unlearning to do when it comes to sustainable wardrobes. At the end of the day, to me, it’s all about doing our best to lessen the impulse of buying something new (or used!) for every occasion. And like any other habit or mind shift, it’s a work in progress that takes time.
So the question is - what are the small steps we can take today to begin building our conscious closets?