What Is Sustainable Fashion

We often hear the term "Sustainable Fashion" nowadays. What does "Sustainable Fashion" really mean? "Sustainable Fashion" is the concept of environmentally-friendly and ethical garment and clothing production that supports the survival of the workers involved in every step of production.

"Sustainable Fashion" means being more responsible, not only to the consumer - by providing skin-friendly clothing and accessories, but also to the environment - by producing in a way that does not pollute nature, and to the makers - from the factory workers who produce the clothes to the distribution channels that have the ethics of sharing profits fairly.

Today, more and more consumers, especially in developed countries, are increasingly concerned about the origins of the things they wear: a piece of clothing or a pair of shoes they wear should be in line with the concept of "Sustainable Fashion".

Issues in the Fashion Industry Today

In fact, every year the global fashion industry contributes no less than 20% of the earth's water waste and 10% of our planet's carbon dioxide emissions, as quoted by the UN European Economic Commission. This industry-generated waste and pollution are MORE than the combined emissions of all international flights and shipping.

Therefore, now might be the right time for all of us to pay more attention to the concept of "Sustainable Fashion".

What is a Sustainable Product?

Products made with the concept of "sustainability" provide social and economic benefits in the entire production process, without polluting the environment.

In the past ten years, more and more garment companies are trying to apply the concept of "sustainable" and good business ethics in carrying out the entire process from production to marketing and distribution of the goods they sell.

Designers are also competing to experiment with eco-friendly materials, such as apple skins, mushroom-based clothing materials, and alternatives to animal skins created from the fibers of pineapple leaves and stems.

The market for "preloved" goods aka second hand / used but in good condition, is also increasingly widespread, as well as vintage / ancient items that are increasingly being hunted by buyers.

5 Steps In Implementing The Sustainability Movement

Environmental issues are not just the problem of clothing manufacturers. But it is time for everyone to take part in this sustainability movement, including us as consumers. For that, here are some tips for implementing the sustainability movement!

1. Less Is Better

Buy fewer items, but with better quality and timeless classics. These items usually come with a higher price tag, but the quality is worth it.

Keeping up with the latest trends is fine, but keep in mind that most trends only last for a season and then disappear. And the way these items are made is quite damaging to the environment.

Here are some examples of timeless classics that are good to have:

• One set of formal trousers and blazer for women, suit for men
• One white shirt and 3-4 pieces of other color shirts with long sleeves
• Two pairs of jeans
• 3-4 pieces of skirts or casual pants
• A jacket or casual outerwear
• Plain t-shirt or blouse in neutral colors
• Black evening dress
• Neutral colored shoes, bags, and accessories with gold or silver accents

It's always best to stick to timeless colors like black, white, grey, beige, and ivory, as these colors are very easy to mix and match.

Try to clean out your closet regularly, donating clothes and items that are no longer used to those in need.

2. Get To Know Brands That Are Already Making Strides Towards "Sustainable Fashion"

Choose brands that are already one step ahead in the "Sustainable Fashion" direction. Usually, the price will be a bit higher. But this higher price is balanced by the less damage these brands cause to the environment.

In addition, eco-friendly brands also support fair remuneration for their factory workers. Some of the international brands that are already sustainable include H&M Conscious, Levi's, and Columbia.

3. Also, Consider Buying Vintage Or Preloved Items

Don't be ashamed to hunt for vintage goods at flea markets, because you can get good things at a lower price while being more nature-friendly! If you don't have the time to travel to a second-hand market, preloved items can be easily sourced from various sources - social media, garage sales, or from various online marketplaces.

Also, barter with your fellow fashion lovers! Before there was a universal medium of exchange, money, people used to barter. Join a community of sustainable fashion lovers and organize a mass barter event. Make friends, save money, and love the environment. How cool is that?

4. Take Good Care Of Your Clothes

Take good care of your clothes, wash your shoes carefully and repair them if they are damaged. This helps to make the items last longer.

Where possible, always use the right type of detergent, wash gently by hand, and always dry clothes in a breezy place without direct sunlight.

Every Little Step Counts

Always look for the latest updates on "Sustainable Fashion" news through various eco-friendly groups on the internet. Besides keeping you motivated to support this earth-loving movement, you can also get various inspirations.

Hopefully, in the future, more and more people will realize the negative impact of the fast fashion industry and switch to sustainable fashion. Every small step counts because when done together, it will bring a big wave of change.

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