Breakup with Fast Fashion and Fall for an Eco-Conscious Wardrobe
If you’re on a quest to live a more sustainable life, one thing that you cannot ignore is your wardrobe.
The Idō Movement’s founder, Sandhya Lalloo-Morar, gives us the inside scoop on how to start your journey to an eco-friendlier wardrobe.
It’s the toxic relationship too many of us can’t quit. An impulse sale purchase here, a pick-me-up there. A quick scroll and a casual add-to-basket. Who are we hurting?
It’s time to curb your consumerism and adopt a minimal mindset.
The most sustainable wardrobe is the one you already have. Start by dividing your clothes into yes, no and maybe piles.
Despite the various pieces that clutter our wardrobes, we find ourselves gravitating towards pieces that provide everyday comfort and that are specific to our day’s activities. These are most likely to define your first pile and the core of your wardrobe.
For the next two piles of clothes, be mindful that you shouldn’t throw everything out and start again – this defeats the point of creating less waste. You can reuse existing pieces by revamping them – use natural dyes on clothes whose colour has drained out, buying an item to match with the pending to wear item, and fixing the fit where needed.
Additionally, being generous in donating items you no longer need is a far better option than throwing these out in the garbage which is destined for the landfill.
Avoiding buying in haste and adopt more mindful shopping practices. Look for items that can serve multiple activities in your life as opposed to being specific to just one activity. Also, remember that trends are short-lived – look for pieces that are timeless and can be dressed up or dress down to give a fresh new look.
Be mindful of what your clothes are made of as different fabrics have different properties that can reduce the need for extensive washing which can also lead to reduced wear and resource wastage. Some natural fabrics, like Hemp and bamboo, are inherently strong and have properties that keep them odorless. Proper care of your clothes extend the life and reduce the stress and cost of frequent replacements.
The art of wardrobe curation is a continuous cycle. Declutter stuff that no longer serves your purpose, keep organising, buy consciously, and invest in the right pieces.
Become more aware of the fashion industry's impact on the environment.
Be the change you want to see in life, and your wardrobe.
