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So you’ve decided: this is the year you’ll change your wardrobe, find your own style—or at least make sure the What Not to Wear team isn’t scouting you for the next “Best of the Worst” marathon. But making these easy fashion resolutions will ensure that your new duds are eco-friendly—and that they’ll last much longer than your no-cookies resolution ever does.
Go vintage.
Buying something that already exists is a great way to prevent wasted production resources and materials. Vintage shopping is key: if you know what to look for, you can find classic pieces in flawless cuts, shapes, and fabrics that will serve you for years to come. And since the definition of vintage is pretty broad, extend it to those clothes your friends haven’t worn for years and host a clothing swap. Hey, new-to-you is still new, right? Make them last.
If you’re handy with a needle and thread or willing to learn, then it’s never necessary to ditch clothes because of lost buttons, weight gain, or hemline changes. If you’re really handy with a needle and thread, you can even work on altering the shapes of pieces, or turning them into trendier alternatives. If you’re not even slightly handy with a needle and thread, then follow the washing instructions closely, dry on low heat, and cut out tags or threads—never rip. Keep shoes clean—and untie the laces instead of kicking one shoe off with the other—and your feet will stay happy, too.
Know your fabrics.
Organic cotton is better than the pesticide-laden traditional version, but is it better than bamboo? Or hemp? Or recycled nylon fibers? It’s important to know the difference between fabrics when you’re scanning the racks; natural fibers are more comfortable, lighter, and last longer than synthetics, but the manufacturing processes can be harsh on the environment. Study up—and then hit the racks!
More eco-friendly fashion:
Buy 3 of the Newest in Eco-Chic Fashions for Fall
Organize Your Wardrobe and Cut Down on Waste
How to Go Green: Wardrobe
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