An NYC Stylist's Guide To Sustainable Shopping
We've all seen "sustainable shopping" on SO many billboards and Instagram Advertisements. But do we even know what it means?
Collectively, we're noticing fashion's impact on landfills and looking for a simple solution. So how can you shop smarter to protect the environment, look chic, and reduce waste?
As an NYC stylist, I'm always helping people swap out their wardrobes and start buying things intentionally.
Once you start shopping with longevity and clothing quality in mind, you'll never look back!
So What Is Sustainability When Shopping Anyway?
Sustainability is a word that gets thrown around a lot these days in the fashion industry. Let's break it down piece by piece.
How to Shop Ethically
The first thing to consider when shopping intentionally is the brand you're buying.
Before you click "add to cart," do a little research on how that brand is sourcing materials and production.
Look into things like...
What are their labor practices?
Where do they source their materials?
How do they treat their employees?
Are they eco-friendly?
Doing your research isn't just empathetic, it's also a huge indicator of clothing quality.
Companies who mistreat their workers and source cheap materials cut costs everywhere! That means they're skimping out on things like construction, hardware, finishing, and stitching.
No big deal, right?
Nope!
Let's keep you from the regret of buying a sweater that starts unraveling a few days later.
1. Buying Recycled Clothing
Fast fashion has created a massive increase in landfill waste, and the trend cycle is only getting faster every year. Don't get stuck in the fashion hamster wheel!
You can choose companies that recycle pre-loved materials so garments can live a second life.
Surviving the trend cycle doesn't have to mean endless purchases. High-quality garments can be repurposed and worn for a lifetime.
Where to Find Organic and Natural Fabrics to Shop Sustainably
As we've been saying, fabric is everything. Companies should source well-woven and carefully constructed materials.
Unfortunately, these practices cost more money and time than fast fashion companies want to spend. Some companies sacrifice quality for quantity and keep you in a loop of spending.
Instead of rushing to buy, check to see what's in your purchase.
You buy the cheaper blouse because you think you've scored a deal, but it's not if it doesn't last or feel amazing.
When you shop this way, you get duped, not a deal.
I want better for my styling clients! This is why I recommend taking the extra time to learn about brands worth buying.
How To Shop Sustainably, Look Chic, and Find Better Clothes
Ok, now that you're on board with greener fashion, let's dive in and see what else you can do to shop for clothes that last.
1. Check The Labels and Product Descriptions of Clothes
The next time you're about to hit "check out" on that online sale, check the fabric blend and product description. Before adding another polyester piece to your closet, think about how it will look in a year and whether it's special enough to forgo quality fabrics.
Try to avoid synthetic materials and garments that blend too many fabrics. Ideally, your clothes should only contain two kinds of material.
2. Pre-Loved, Consignment Shopping and Secondhand Is Underrated
Thrifting has been gaining popularity for years, and it's only getting more popular, so why not jump in?
This is one trend that is 100% LGY-approved. Second-hand shopping is a fantastic way to give back to the earth and fill your closet with well-constructed pieces.
Oftentimes, older garments, even the more affordable ones, were crafted with care. Fast fashion didn't exist before 2000, so clothes were made with the consumer in mind rather than the bottom line.
These clothes were made to last, so you can depend on them to stand the test of time.
Thrifting is by far the most accessible way to shop sustainably and expand your budget.
3. Look in Your Closet BEFORE You Buy and Shop With A Plan
Next time you're on your way out the door to go shopping, hit the brakes.
What are you looking for? Do you have a specific piece in mind, or are you just going to wander until something grabs you?
Take a second to make a game plan instead of winging it- it's tough to window-shop without giving in to the call of the credit card.
To avoid overconsuming, take a look at what you already have. Donate or resell what you don't need so you have a more clear mind of what is a good investment.
Where are the "holes" in your wardrobe, and what do you have too much of?
Start from there and work backward. Fill the holes in your wardrobe rather than buy the same shirt that's already there.
