Have you found yourself in the never-ending cycle of purchasing cheaply made clothing to later be discarded? Fast fashion brands such as Shein, Zaful, and Romwe are taking the world by storm as they rapidly produce inexpensive clothing — but at what cost?Â
The dark side of fast fashion comprises nearly 10% of all global carbon emissions, pollutes rivers and streams, and dries up a plethora of important water sources. Along with these detrimental environmental impacts come a series of social impacts that become worsened by such overconsumption.
Unfortunately, with over 75 million factory workers around the world, it is estimated that a mere 2% are compensated fairly for their work. The other 98%, which includes underage workers, are severely overworked, underpaid, and exposed to toxic substances.
So, if you’re wondering how you can do your part to combat the impacts of fast fashion, here are six sustainable shopping methods that you can easily implement into your shopping endeavors to meet new people, diversify your attire, and make the planet a better place!
- Rent the runway
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An up-and-coming discovery of mine has been Rent the Runway, an online subscription service in which shoppers can reserve chosen outfits for a designated amount of time and have access to an ever-changing closet. Rent the Runway not only has thousands of clothing articles to choose from, but also maintains a high standard of sustainability within its manufacturers. Rentals are purchased at a set price and can either be kept or swapped for new trendy items! Check them out here.
- Thrift
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One of my favorite activities, and something that can even be done with friends or as a fun date, is to thrift! Thrift stores are not only incredibly environmentally friendly, but bring new life into pre-loved clothing. Some of my best fashion finds have been from my local Goodwill; they have everything from oversized grandpa sweaters to vintage brands. Check out your local Goodwill or Salvation Army to see what surprises they may have in store — who knows what you’ll find!
- shop small businesses
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Shop small! Although rather self-explanatory, shopping small not only supports your local economy, but can also open you up to an abundance of locally produced products. These products are sourced from significantly smaller manufacturers who emphasize environmentalism and fair wages. Some of my favorite small businesses in the Amherst area are Zanna, Clays, and Art of Intimates, but most towns have dozens of small businesses that are begging for your attention!
- research and shop brands that focus on sustainability
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With many environmental and societal issues on the rise, several clothing brands have set out to maintain a certain standard of sustainability within their business practices. Many strive to preserve natural environments, reduce emissions, and pay their workers a fair, livable wage. Some such brands include Afends, Nube, Patagonia, and Neu Nomads.
- make your own clothes
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Although difficult, one of my favorite shopping hacks has been to take matters into my own hands and turn an article of clothing that I occasionally wear into a closet staple. Something as simple as cropping a shirt or hemming your baggy jeans into boyfriend shorts is something that requires minimal effort but allows you to be free with your clothing and turn a “meh” piece into a personal favorite. Some of my favorite articles of clothing are ones that I have impulsively taken scissors to and had fun with. You could even turn this into a girl’s night: who can make the best clothing flip?
- Join poshmark or depop
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As time goes on, more and more companies have been created to allow fashion enthusiasts to buy, sell, and browse the newest fashion trends. Sites such as Poshmark and Depop serve as the modern-day Facebook Marketplace and create fun and engaging outlets that allow sellers to advertise their lightly used clothing at a discounted price. You can sell your pre-loved clothing while simultaneously decreasing greenhouse gas emissions — what could be better than that?
Next time you find yourself browsing on a fast fashion site, think about the detrimental effects that these practices have on our planet. Remember the steps that you can take to greatly change the scope behind fast fashion and make the world a better place. We only have one Earth, treat her well!
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