Sustainable fashion is not just a passing fashion trend. The movement highlights the need to change the fashion industry to a more sustainable model. But what exactly is sustainable fashion? And how can you make your wardrobe more sustainable and still look stylish? In this article, we have a closer look at sustainable fashion.
In this article:
- Sustainable fashion: a definition
- Why is sustainable fashion important?
- Four benefits of sustainable fashion
- Seven examples of sustainable fashion
- How can you support sustainable fashion?
- Shop at sustainable fashion brands
- Frequently asked questions about sustainable fashion
Sustainable fashion: a definition
Sustainable fashion is a movement about clothing production with respect for people, animals, and the environment. The core principles are simple: sustainable practices with minimal environmental impact, fair production, and lasting clothes. Ultimately, sustainable fashion means less pollution, better working conditions, and seasonless clothes that you can wear repeatedly.
Read more: Sustainable And Ethical Fashion: A Guide
Why is sustainable fashion important? The impact of the fashion industry
There are several reasons why sustainable fashion is so important today: the fashion industry has a huge impact on our planet, both the environment and the people working with it. To give you an example, in the United States, an estimated 11.3 million tonnes of textile waste ended up in landfills in 2018. That number is probably much higher now. This situation is not a sustainable way for our planet to live.
Unfortunately, there are also many ethical issues at play in the industry. These issues include poor working conditions, people being paid less than the minimum wage and being exposed to dangerous chemicals. Profit often comes before providing a safe and healthy place to work.
In conclusion, the fashion industry contributes a lot of textile waste and poor working conditions. Drastic changes are needed to make the fashion industry more sustainable. The first step is sustainable fashion.
Four benefits of sustainable fashion
Sustainable fashion concerns more than just the environment. It is a movement that is driving positive change in several areas. Below are some key benefits.
- Less pollution: Sustainable fashion generates less pollution because people tend to use natural materials rather than chemicals, which are prime pollutants in nature.
- Better quality: Clothes are of high quality because of the use of strong materials. You pay a little more, but the clothes last a lot longer.
- Good working conditions: Garment workers are paid more than the minimum wage. The working environment is also safe and healthy.
- Seasonless: Clothing does not follow fashion trends, so you can enjoy a good style for years. Seasonless clothing is not only good for your wallet, but also for the environment.
Seven examples of sustainable fashion
Sustainable fashion is a term for many different approaches. Below are seven inspiring examples of sustainable fashion.
1. Ethical fashion
Ethical fashion (fair fashion) focuses on social justice and respect for human rights. Ethical brands ensure garment workers are paid a fair wage (often above the minimum). They also work in a safe and healthy environment, and fair trade is important.
2. Circular fashion
Circular fashion is a closed chain where waste is minimised, and materials are reused. At MUD Jeans, for example, we use a minimum of 40% post-consumer recycled cotton in our jeans. We aim to increase this to 100%.
3. Slow fashion
Slow fashion is the opposite of fast fashion, which puts quality before quantity. The clothes are of high quality and are timeless. As a result, clothes last a long time and stay in fashion. So you can wear each garment over and over again.
Read more: Fast Fashion vs. Slow Fashion Explained
4. Conscious fashion
Conscious fashion is about being able to make conscious, informed choices. Transparency plays a big part in this; brands that are open about their production processes and materials help consumers make responsible choices.
5. Shareable fashion
Shareable fashion encourages you to share clothes and accessories with others. For example, with friends and family, but also through clothing libraries or swap platforms. Shareable fashion allows you to exchange clothes you don't wear with others.
6. Zero waste fashion
Zero waste fashion aims to create little waste during production and use. Designers often use clever patterns and efficient cutting techniques to create garments without residue.
7. Upcycling fashion
Upcycling fashion gives new life to old clothes. Reusing and transforming existing materials creates unique and sustainable pieces that would otherwise end up in landfill. For example, by turning old company clothes into bags.
How can you support sustainable clothing?
Choosing sustainable fashion is important for a better planet. But how can you choose sustainable fashion? It's easier than you think. The following tips will help you choose green fashion.
- Buy from sustainable brands: Choose a sustainable brand that cares about sustainability and ethics.
- Be minimalist: Buy only what you really need and avoid impulse purchases to reduce waste and promote a conscious lifestyle.
- Choose natural materials: Choose clothes made from organic cotton, linen, bamboo, or other natural materials. These materials are better for the environment and often better for your skin.
- Invest in quality: Buy quality clothes that last. Quality will save you money in the long run.
- Buy second-hand: Give used clothes a second life by shopping at second-hand shops.
- Swap clothes: Take part in clothes swap events. This is a fun opportunity to refresh your wardrobe without buying anything new.
- Upcycle clothes: Give old clothes a new life by reusing or upcycling them. For example, turn a blazer into a bag.
- Take care of your clothes: Extend the life of your clothes by washing them consciously. Follow washing instructions and repair clothes instead of throwing them away.
Tip: At MUD Jeans, you can get your jeans repaired. We will pay 50% of the repair costs.
Shop at sustainable fashion brands
Sustainable fashion is a term for a movement that aims to produce clothing with respect for people, animals, and the environment. Sustainable fashion ensures less pollution, good working conditions and better quality.
Are you looking for a sustainable fashion brand? At MUD Jeans, you'll find sustainable premium fashion that looks good, feels good and does good.
