There’s nothing quite as fun as a little retail therapy, especially with the transition into a new season. But, have you considered the impact that a too-full, barely worn closet can have? Buying clothing that you may not need or will rarely wear is overconsumption and has a negative impact on our environment. Overconsumption becomes the name of the game as we see winter turn to spring, and we all start to get a little too giddy about the new pieces of clothing we own. The creation of an article of clothing requires chemicals, natural or synthetic fibres, and a ton of water. The use of these resources is a massive environmental stressor. Thus, the purchasing of excessive amounts of clothing is harmful to the planet, especially amidst a climate crisis.
Additionally, fast fashion in particular has a multitude of human rights impacts that must not be forgotten. Many companies, especially online fast fashion brands, abuse and under-pay labor workers in developing countries.
Next time you want to buy a brand new clothing article, think about how much you will wear it and who might have been impacted in its creation. The price may be larger than that little paper tag. All of that being said, fashion is a mode of creative expression and empowerment that all should have access to – especially in periods of seasonal transition. Here are some simple ways to keep the fun parts of fashion in a sustainable and productive manner.
DIY
What’s better than customizing your clothing? There are many ways to take things that you already own and transform them into something completely different! Pants can become shorts, scarfs can become shirts, you can even crochet or add details to existing clothes to bring new life to your clothes. Home alterations might seem daunting, but don’t fret – DSEF is having a “sew-cial” event on March 22 and a local seamstress is going to lend a hand to those who wish to mend clothing and experiment with alterations! So, come prepared with clothes that need fixing or that you may want to revamp for the upcoming spring season.
Attend on campus clothing swaps or pop-ups
There are many on-campus resources available that make acquiring new clothing accessible and sustainable! DSEF regularly holds pop-ups with a variety of local vendors, giving students the opportunity to get their hands on sustainable clothing. There is truly something to be said about one person’s trash becoming another one’s treasure.
Swap/Share Clothes with your Friends
Odds are you have something kicking around in your closet that your friend might love. Instead of letting it sit in your closet, host a clothing swap with your friends! Maybe you’ll end up getting to keep the shirt you always ask your friend to borrow on a Friday night.
Local sources in HRM
If you find yourself needing to purchase new items, there are many stores in Halifax where you can source some sustainable additions to your wardrobe. Some of our favorites are The Loot, HasBin, Lost and Found and Elisie’s (they even have a $2 bin!). The Loot, located at 1711 Barrington Street, has trendy vintage and second hand pieces with a wide range of styles. They offer several designer options, jeans, outerwear and so many fun tops for all seasons. There is a plus sized rack and the store carries accessories & art from local artists as well !The HasBin, located on the top floor of GlitterBean Cafe co-op at 5896 Spring Garden Road, holds a variety of funky styles for all sizes. There are amazing deals to be found, and you won’t leave without finding an outrageous piece to make a statement this spring. Lost & Found sits at 2383 Agricola Street, and has amazing quality vintage pieces, with gender-inclusive and plus sized pieces too. Several local prints and funky shades can also be found at this fun store.
With spring on the horizon, you might be tempted to purchase some new pieces. We, at DSEF, hope that this article might give you some insight into the many ways that you can use what you have or purchase sustainably to feel good in all the beautiful clothing you wear.