Responsible shopping can feel like a lot sometimes. It seems like there are a variety of factors you have to take into consideration when purchasing clothes, all of which require a decent amount of research. You have to ask yourself tons of questions. At least, that’s what it can seem like. But when it comes to responsible shopping there are only a couple of factors to keep in mind. Here are some strategies to boost your shopping habits and keep them mindful.
Fabrics
There are a variety of eco-friendly and sustainable fabrics to consider when purchasing clothing items. The top fabrics to avoid are polyester, acrylic, nylon, cotton, and rayon. They are avoidable for a variety of reasons, such as some of them being synthetic, which you can check out in the above listed article for more in-depth reasons. But just as there are fabrics you should avoid, there are also fabrics that get the green light in our books. Things like organic cotton and linen are great for the environment, and for your skin, as well. Check out the label on your favorite products for these materials. You are guaranteed to love them.
Slow vs. Fast Fashion
Fast fashion is all about getting out the latest trends as quickly as possible. All that matters is to stay on top of what's hot on the market. Hence the term “fast fashion”. Slow fashion, on the other hand, is about taking the time to produce quality products with eco-friendly and sustainable materials. When it comes to fashion brands, look for labels that prioritize taking it slow. It's so much better to produce products this way. They take into account their impact on the environment, not just in the short term but in the long term, as well.
You can likely find out more about this on their website.
Transparency
Speaking of websites, look for brands who are transparent about how they produce their clothing and other items. Brands who lay it all out there don't have anything to hide, and websites are the easiest way to find out if they’re producing clothes ethically. This includes where production takes place and how well they’re paying their workers. This will only take minutes to do, so it's hardly a research extravaganza. It should be fairly easy to read and digest, so again, it's not like it will take all day. The answers are readily available at your fingertips, so long as the answers are actually provided.
Benefiting the Environment
There are a couple of environmental aspects to consider when purchasing products. First things first, do they prioritize minimal and eco-friendly packaging? There are alternatives to plastic they can use, and you're going to want to see how they go about packaging and shipping what you've bought. Another great thing to look for is if they champion any causes. For instance, some brands will plant a tree or pick up trash for every item purchased. It's an amazing way to help out the environment while also building your wardrobe.
Sustainable Organic Oasis Printed Cami Top
This blouse is organically made, with a patterned print in shades of blue.
Sustainable Organic Cypress Oversized Abstract Tee
A watercolor-like design on a nicely fitted tee.
The Chloe Shirt in Off-White is a delicate dream.
The Lily tank, with white ribbons and an angular neckline is just what you need to kick off the season.
Head down to the beach in this pastel blue printed crop top.
This white top with lavender floral print offers a gentle touch of spring.
The florals on this Mabel blouse are bright yet muted to give off the air of femininity.
Everybody needs a cozy sweater, and this one can fill that role.
A beautifully patterned floral blouse that softens and flatters.
A classic kind of blouse with accented sleeves.
