Stop Wasting Your Money Buying Clothes You Don't Wear
Solving the problem to these many issues may seem like a lot but the solution is really quite simple and will save you money and make you feel a whole lot better when you break it down slowly.
I haven't met anyone who doesn't agree with the concept of slow fashion or who doesn't want to support a more sustainable world but I am still shocked by the amount of people who tell me that clothes today cost too much and that sustainable fashion brands are too expensive for them. But the truth is that the majority of clothes are actually too cheap and our perception of what clothes should cost today has become warped!
Most sustainable brands prioritise ethical sourcing, choose quality sustainable fabrics, obtain certifications and ensure fair wages for their workers. They engage in ethical manufacturing and maintain careful planning. Sustainable brands can't afford to be stuck with excess stock that doesn't sell when it doesn't flatter or fit well, whereas most fast fashion brands work on the basis that they will throw out excess stock to achieve cheaper bulk manufacturing costs to keep their prices low. A shocking 93% of global brands are not paying their garment workers a living wage.
So if you think that sustainable fashion is too expensive. Try these ideas instead.
1. Stop Impulse Shopping. Don't buy clothes when you feel you have nothing to wear. Shopping for fast fashion can be like a dopamine hit when you are rushed and on a mission. The feel good feeling only lasts for one wear and you end up with hyper pieces that match nothing else in your wardrobe. Instead spend time, not more money on your wardrobe. Go through your wardrobe before you shop and do a quick inventory. You should love every piece you wear. If you don't love it, don't buy it.
2. Find Your Style. Be intentional with your outfits by finding your own personal style and dressing to suit your lifestyle and definitely don't buy clothes for your future body. Once you've done a de-clutter of your wardrobe make a list of the core pieces you need to create your own style. I'm not a believer in comparing body types to fruits as everyones shape is unique. Spending time trying styles on is the best way to work out what looks best on you.
3. Challenge Yourself. Create style challenges using clothes you already own or by doing a challenge such as the 30 wears challenge. Most people regularly wear just 20% of their wardrobe, so challenge yourself to wear every item 30 times! You might choose to only buy one piece of clothing per month or to not buy anything new for a year. Looking after and mending current clothes is also a truly commendable option and could be the challenge you need.
4. Budget. On average, every Australian buys 56 items of clothing yearly. When you do the maths the numbers are quite shocking! Calculate your clothing budget by looking at what you spent on clothes over the last year and divide by 12 months. I would recommend buying only one item of clothing per month but choosing quality, well thought out items. Stick to your style and it's a win win. You'll end up with some amazing pieces that will last for many years.
5. Care For Your Clothes. Choose clothes that will last longer by looking at the fabric content and care instructions before you buy. Invest in good quality fabrics, natural sustainable fibres and well made pieces. Hand wash clothing in cold or warm water or use a gentle machine cycle. Use the correct detergents and slow spin cycles on silks and wools. Line dry if you can and store clothes buttoned or zipped up on wooden hangers to keep their shape with space and plenty of air circulation. Care for your clothes, like the good friends they are. Your clothes will thank you.
