Sustainable Fashion Resolutions for the New Year

As we welcome a  new year, it's a time for reflection, self-improvement, and setting intentions for the months ahead.  Amid all the chatter about what's "in" and what's "out," there's one thing I can say with absolute certainty that should be firmly on everyone's "in" list: sustainability. So while you are reflecting on what to implement in 2024 here are 6 sustainable fashion resolutions for the new year.

Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Instead of constantly succumbing to the allure of cheap, fast-fashion items, let's embark on a journey toward quality and timelessness. Invest in those pieces that not only stand the test of time but also have a lower environmental impact. Consider essentials like the timeless little black dress, a tailored blazer, a leather jacket, a pearl necklace. These are not just garments; they are investments in your style and the planet.

Shop Secondhand and Vintage: Picture this – you, strolling through charming thrift stores and consignment shops, discovering unique treasures with stories of your own. Secondhand shopping is not just about acquiring fashion; it's a conscious choice to reduce textile waste and promote circular fashion. If in-store experiences aren't your cup of tea, the digital realm offers a plethora of online secondhand shops. Among my personal favorites are platforms like Depop, ThredUp, Swap, Retro and Me, and many more. Each click not only adds to your wardrobe but also contributes to a sustainable future.

Support Sustainable Brands; In the age of information, we have the power to make informed choices. Research and support fashion brands that prioritize sustainability in every step of their production processes. Keep an eye out for certifications like Fair Trade, the esteemed Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), and the esteemed B Corp label. By endorsing these ethical and eco-friendly practices, you become a beacon of change in the fashion industry. Some of my favorites are Parade, Cotton On, Amazon Aware, and Pact.

Reduce Single-Use Fashion: Let's make a pact to reduce our consumption of single-use fashion items. Those fast-fashion dresses and trendy pieces that are worn once and discarded – they're a thing of the past. Instead, focus on versatile, classic pieces that can be styled in myriad ways. This doesn't mean saying goodbye to fast fashion entirely, but rather making thoughtful choices that align with longevity and sustainability.

Learn About Fabrics: Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to fabrics and their environmental impact. Arm yourself with information and choose materials like organic cotton, eco-friendly hemp, Tencel, and the transformative power of recycled materials whenever possible. Be mindful of synthetic fabrics that shed harmful microplastics into our environment. By making conscious fabric choices, you weave a brighter future for fashion and our planet. I just stumbled upon this amazing iPhone hack! It turns out that by taking a photo of your clothing tag, you can magically get laundry instructions. This nifty trick deciphers those cryptic laundry care symbols, helping you clean your clothes properly and extend their lifespan. It's a real game-changer for anyone who's ever been puzzled by those symbols and in turn benefits the environment!

Join Sustainable Fashion Communities: Joining online forums or social media groups dedicated to sustainable fashion is like stepping into a vibrant garden of like-minded individuals. Here, you can connect with fellow enthusiasts, share valuable tips, and stay motivated on your sustainable fashion journey. The digital landscape is rich with resources offering sustainable practices, information, and opportunities to support the cause. One notable organization making waves sustainably is Remake – their advocacy work for fair pay and climate justice within the clothing industry is both inspiring and transformative. Embrace these communities, because together, we can drive the change towards a more sustainable and stylish world.

xoxo,

Amelia's Closet