Slow fashion is a movement that emphasizes sustainable and ethical practices in the fashion industry. Not only is it incredibly important to start taking part in the slow fashion industry, it can also be a ton of fun. Thrifting is on an uptick in popularity, and especially in recent years I feel my peer group is finding a lot of emphasis in clothing that will last a long time, and fits your body. This is the angle I take with my wardrobe, as I’ve had a dream for a few years now to have a completely me-made wardrobe, at least as much as possible, knit socks just don’t make much sense in the summer months!
If you’re interested in reducing your environmental impact, supporting fair labor practices, and finding or making pieces specifically for yourself, getting started with slow fashion is a great way to make a difference. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Assess Your Wardrobe
Before you start shopping for slow fashion items, take a look at your current wardrobe. Consider donating or selling any items that you no longer wear, and try to identify any gaps that need to be filled. This will help you avoid making unnecessary purchases and ensure that you’re only buying what you need.
I haven’t personally gone through this process yet, as I’m stuck in indecision on how to assess! God forbid I just use a piece of paper and a pen to do this step. 🤦🏼♀️ I’ve been exploring how to catalog my wardrobe in an app like Stylebook. My gripe with Stylebook is that it doesn’t easily sync between devices, but I looove the information that can be tracked in this app like price per wear, or logging when I wear a piece so I know what is getting used in my wardrobe.
The other app I’ve explored logging my wardrobe in is Notion, which I use to log all of my crafting projects & supplies, as well as where I work to create all of my content. The only reason I haven’t dived-doven(?) into cataloging my wardrobe in Notion yet is because it’s just plain old overwhelming. There are some templates already set up online I could use, but I’m wanting something a little more custom, and wrapping my head around a project like this is just a little too big for my new-mama brain.
2. Research Slow Fashion Brands
Research slow fashion brands that align with your values. Look for brands that use sustainable materials, pay fair wages to their workers, and prioritize ethical production practices. You can also look for certifications like Fair Trade or GOTS to ensure that a brand meets certain standards.
If you decide to make your own clothes, whether it’s knitting, sewing, or weaving you can still reduce your footprint a little bit more by using sustainable or recycled yarns, fibers, and fabrics.
3. Shop Secondhand
Shopping secondhand is a great way to reduce waste and support sustainable fashion. Look for thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like Poshmark and thredUP to find gently used clothing and accessories. You can also consider clothing swaps with friends or attending clothing swap events in your community.
4. Invest in Quality
When you do need to make a new purchase, invest in quality pieces that will last. Look for items made from durable, high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear. These items may be more expensive upfront, but they’ll save you money in the long run by lasting longer and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
5. Take Care of Your Clothes
Properly caring for your clothes can help extend their lifespan and reduce the need for replacements. Follow care instructions on clothing labels, and consider hand washing or air-drying delicate items to avoid damage. You can also learn basic clothing repair skills like sewing on buttons or patching holes to help extend the life of your clothes.
By following these tips, you can start incorporating slow fashion practices into your wardrobe and making a positive impact on the fashion industry. Let me know in the comments what your plans are for your wardrobe.
