Do you want to shop sustainably but can’t quite let go of chic style? Believe it or not, the two terms can coincide – give your wardrobe a luxurious look while still supporting the planet. It may take a bit of searching, but finding fashionable, eco-friendly clothing is easier than you think. Keep reading to learn how you can create a chic and sustainable clothing collection that will make your closet – and the environment – happy!
1. Defining Chic & Sustainable Style
Chic and Sustainable Style:
Sustainable fashion pairs two seemingly opposite concepts: chic style and environmental responsibility. It is the art of pairing quality with conscientiousness – a search for natural materials in innovative organisation structures. This trend is increasingly gaining attention while challenging traditional beliefs about ‘eco-fashion’.
Chic and sustainable style gives way to the idea of timelessness. Think high-end basics and staple pieces crafted from organic fibres that are made ethically. It’s about finding versatile pieces that won’t just look good but last long-term, no matter the season:
- Clothing with a modern fit and a timeless design
- Structural layers and elements that can be styled for countless occasions
- Organic materials that are kinder to our skin and provide a sense of luxury
Chic and sustainable style is all about minimising environmental impact while also considering a nicer, healthier and more beautiful product. It’s the perfect balance of quality and conscience, style and sustainability.
2. Shopping Tips for an Eco-Friendly Clothing Collection
Choosing eco-friendly clothing is an important way to reduce your environmental impact and do good for the planet. Furthermore, looking good in sustainable fashion shows off both your style and ethical values! Here are some tips that you can use to shop for an eco-friendly clothing collection.
- Identify sustainable brands: Brands that focus on sustainability are available throughout the fashion industry. Do some research and take a look at the materials and processes that the brands use in their collections. Many of them feature eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, bamboo, lyocell ( TENCEL™), hemp, and recycled polyester.
- Find stores that are transparent: It is important to know where your clothing is coming from and how it’s made. Do some digging around and try to find stores that are transparent about their practices. They should be able to explain their entire production process from sourcing to dyeing.
- Partner with a local store: Shopping with locally owned stores can be a great way to get sustainable clothing. Such shops are likely to have clothes made from locally sourced materials, putting a smaller strain on the environment.
When looking for an eco-friendly clothing collection, try to focus on certified organic materials, such as cotton and Tencel. These materials have minimal environmental impact, and are often produced with natural materials like air and solar energy. GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and Oeko-Tex certifications are also signs of quality and sustainability.
Finally, remember that second-hand and vintage clothing are great options for creating an eco-friendly clothing collection. Vintage pieces and thrift shop finds are all part of the journey. Not only are they often less expensive and stylish, but they also support the reuse of existing materials.
3. Accessorizing with Sustainable Materials
Are you looking for trendy ways to express your unique style without wasting precious resources? Then is the perfect way to do just that! Sustainable materials are easy to come by and add a certain elegance to your wardrobe that even the most high-end fashion cannot match. Here are some ideas to jazz up your look and reduce your carbon footprint at the same time:
- Leather Alternatives: Tired of buying leather products? Opt instead for more sustainable alternatives like Piñatex – a leather-like fabric made from pineapple fibers – or materials such as cork leather or mushroom leather.
- Wood Accents: Wood accents are a great way to add a touch of natural charm to your apparel. Search for pins, wallets and jewelry made from sustainably sourced wood— they offer a unique look that you won’t find anywhere else.
- Metallic Accessories: Wear your values while adding some sparkle to your look with sustainable metallic accessories. Look for metallic jewelry and accessories adorned with gems created from recycled glass or hammered from coins!
Accessorize with sustainable materials and feel good about investing in items that are made with respect for the environment and our precious resources. Sustainable materials are now more accessible than ever—you’re sure to find a piece to fit your style!
4. Building a Chic & Sustainable Wardrobe
Having a closet of clothing that is both chic and sustainable can seem like a difficult task, but it can be an attainable goal. Eco-friendly clothes have come a long way from tie-dye tees and hemp pants; you can now find fashionable pieces made of recycled materials, organic fabrics, low-impact dyes, and natural fibers – all without sacrificing style.
One way to reduce your environmental impact while still looking amazing is to invest in high-quality pieces that last longer. For instance, build up your foundational clothing items, such as dresses or collared shirts, from fabrics like wool, linen, or bamboo – all natural, strong materials. You can also find unique vintage items at thrift stores or on resale sites that will add diversity to your look.
When it comes to accessories, go with something that can reflect your personality without using too many materials. Invest in timeless pieces that will look great for years, such as handmade jewelry, watches made from recycled materials, or vegan leather bags. And lastly, repair your clothes and shoes when they experience wear and tear to extend their lifespan. Armed with these tips, you can build a sustainable wardrobe while still keeping your style sexy and chic.
Having a stylish yet sustainable wardrobe is possible, with the right clothing pieces from ethical brands. With increased awareness of the impact our fashion choices have on the environment, consumers can empower themselves with the knowledge of how to create a mindful and chic clothing collection. Anything is possible, so go out there and make your fashion choices count!
