In the past couple of articles we’ve talked all about sustainable fashion, what it’s about and how it is the latest emerging trend in the fashion world. One thing is for sure that sustainable fashion is here to stay. So, with all this buzz of sustainability, eco-friendly living and fashion how does one keep up and adapt? We’ve put together five easy tips on how to shop sustainably! (These tips not only apply to garments in particular but also to other products as well):
Buy local – locally produced products (like food or fabrics like handloom) are actually better suited for our lifestyle and environment. Apart from that buying local means that you’re helping local businesses and talent grow. Also, buying local doesn’t mean letting go completely of all things international. There are lots of international brands that have adapted to our local tastes and also help local communities and businesses grow. While shopping sustainably whether local or international, its great to keep in mind the next three points.
Local Handloom fabric and Handicrafts
(Image Source : –www.indianhandicraftscompany.com)
Always organic – Organic products (whether they are food items or clothing) are made from plants that are grown through organic agriculture. This simply means that these kinds of plants are grown using natural fertilizers and methods that are good for the environment. Here is a fun fact- organic cotton actually uses less water than non-organic cotton!
Organic Cotton dress at The Loom
(Image Source – www.theloom.in)
Handcrafted products – Handmade and handcrafted products are always unique and one of a kind. What’s more? Buying something that’s made by hand is always better than buying something that’s made by a machine/factory that pollutes the environment.
Handcrafted Necklace from The Loom
Fair-trade – When shopping for sustainable items or any products in general, its great to look out for the fair-trade logo. Fair trade items are not just eco-friendly and good for the planet, but also good for the people. The organization strives to make sure that the people making the products have great, safe and healthy working environment. This means that you would be buying something that’s good for you, good for the person who made it and good for the planet too!
Fabrics that are fair-trade certified
( Image Source : www.pinterest.com )
Recycled or Upcycled – last but not the least, it’s all about recycling and up cycling things we already own. It could be channeling your creative energy in DIY projects by reusing and recreating new things out of old unused stuff, or it could be simply buying from brands and labels that believe in creating recycled/upcycled products.
Fashion and lifestyle label ‘I was a Sari’ up cycles old Indian Saris
( Image Source – twitter.com )
The best part about shopping sustainably is that it not only let’s you stay on trend but also leads to a healthier lifestyle. What’s even better is that by shopping sustainably your not just doing good for yourself, but also for the community and the planet! So the next time you’re planning to go shopping, do consider shopping sustainably!
