Wear It Till It’s Worn

The fashion industry is the second largest global pollutant, and with climate change catching up to us we need to do all we can to live sustainably. The easiest place to start is your wardrobe. As consumers we continue to purchase from corporate businesses who are doing the environment no help. And for what, easy access and cheaper prices? There are so many other ways, op shops, swap shops and self mending. Remember, you have the power in where you tap your card.

NEEDS OR WANTS?

The first step is checking on our ever growing wish lists. The job of a consumer is to consume but we’re not originally built with an off switch. We buy, buy, buy until we become a glutinous heap. 

When you walk into a clothing store and pick up a good looking garment, your first question should be ‘Do I need it?’ Followed on by ‘Do I already own this same cut/style?’, ‘Will I really wear it at least thirty times?’, and ‘How full is my wardrobe already?’. If you’ve answered all these questions and have surfaced with a positive analysis then, why not?

When looking at your wardrobe, decipher how much of it you need to keep. Even if you’re losing a much loved outfit, if you donate it you know that it will make the next person happy.

THE BEST LITTLE FINDS

Op-shopping is like your own mini scavenger hunt. You’re weaving your way through a sea of colour and style. You find a ski jacket next door to a vintage dress. The possibilities are endless…..

At least, that’s how I see op-shopping. Some people see it as a mess of second hand germs. It’s all about the mindset. Majority of donors wash their clothes before dropping them off and you’ll probably wash them when you get home anyway. You have the choice to decide what quality you want your purchases to have, because there are times when you find practically new items. 

You could spend hours perusing the racks and stumble along hidden gems. You can find yourself wandering out of the shop after spending $100 on new outfits, where anywhere else it would be $300. The best joys are when you find something from brands you love. You can’t do anything about the explosive damage the supply chain has already created, but at least you can make it worth it. Even at op-shops remind yourself about the needs and wants you hold.

MAGIC OF MENDING

You pull on a pair of your most treasured jeans, only to find a fraying tear in the side. Will you have to part ways?! No, that’s not necessary. Pick up a needle and thread and start creating. You can add spots of colour, an embroidered symbol, or an invisible mend. If people can see it or not, you know that you saved your relationship with these beautiful jeans. Even if your sewing skills are a little rusty, jump onto ‘YouTube’ or ask a buddy to help you out. There is so much media around fixing clothing. A great read if you're interested is the book Joyful Mending by Noriku Misumi, teaching you about the beautiful imperfections found on garments.

Take the matter of sustainable fashion in your own hands. It might be hard creating new habits, but each small step you take is towards a better future for you, your friends, your children, your grandchildren and future Earth. Wear the world you want to live in.