What is Sustainable Fashion? Your Eco-Friendly Style Guide

What is sustainable fashion and why is it important? Can eco-friendly style rival the ever-changing world of “trendy” lewks? If you’re ready to make a statement with your attire but also reduce our carbon footprint, helping to mitigate fashion’s heavy toll on our planet in the process, it’s about time to dive deep into the benefits of sustainable fashion. So, let’s get into it.

Your Sustainable Fashion Guide to Nailing the Eco-Friendly Style 

In a sartorial landscape marked by ever-evolving trends and the need for constant wardrobe updates, the fashion industry has found itself at a crossroads. On one side, we have fast fashion that churns out affordable, mass-produced garments at breakneck speed – every 4–6 weeks, to be exact. However, while the allure of budget-friendly, mass-produced clothes has long held sway, the consequences of this worldwide appetite for quick fashion fixes have proven dire for the environment and all its inhabitants. 

In stark contrast stands sustainable fashion, a movement that champions eco-consciousness and ethical practices, which has emerged as the antidote to the fast fashion frenzy. The end goal? To help us shift the focus from fleeting trends to a more enduring commitment to our environment through our fashion choices and in doing so, redefine our relationship with the industry. 

So, as it turns out, there’s a well-hidden “tax” behind the alluring $5 shirt after all –one that directly affects the lives of the workers who craft the clothes, as well as the environment. Let’s get into the real question – what is sustainable fashion and why is it important?

What is Sustainable Fashion? 

The Collins English dictionary describes the term “sustainability” as “the avoidance of the depletion of natural resources to maintain an ecological balance.” 

So, to put it simply, sustainable fashion, also known as eco-fashion or ethical fashion, is an approach to clothing design, production, and consumption that takes into account the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry. It encompasses a wide range of practices and principles aimed at minimizing harm to the planet and promoting ethical treatment of workers throughout the fashion supply chain.

This also includes efforts to reduce waste and prolong the lifespan of garments. That’s extremely important given that the average American throws away 81.5 pounds of clothes every year even though you can expect most of your clothes to last somewhere between two and three years. 

At its core, sustainable fashion aims to challenge the “fast fashion” culture of disposable clothing and encourages a more thoughtful and responsible approach to fashion consumption. It recognizes that the fashion industry has a significant environmental footprint and strives to mitigate these effects while also promoting fair treatment and opportunities for workers in the industry.

The Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion

Fast Fashion Waste 

In the whirlwind world of fast fashion, the relentless pace of production is driving an astonishing surge in clothing output. If this trajectory persists, we could be looking at a staggering 134 million tonnes of fast fashion waste each year by the end of the decade. To put this into perspective, consider the 2.6 million tonnes of clothing returns that found their dismal fate in landfills across the United States in 2020 alone. Astoundingly, this mountain of returns also generated a jaw-dropping 16 million tonnes of CO2 emissions within just a single year. 

100 billion garments are produced yearly, and 92 million tons end up in landfills. This is the equivalent of a rubbish truck full of clothes ending up on landfill sites every second. These unwanted clothes, often crafted from synthetic materials that can take centuries to break down, not only clog our landfills but also release toxic pollutants into the very air we breathe, the soil that sustains us, and the water that quenches our thirst.

The Environmental Impact of Synthetic Fabrics

Water Consumption 

Behind that dazzling dress or versatile pair of jeans lies an extreme amount of wasted water which accounts for a whopping 20% of global wastewater. From the cultivation of cotton to the intricate processes of dyeing and finishing textiles, fast fashion consumes an astonishing 79 billion cubic meters of water each year. To put it in perspective, that’s equivalent to the annual water consumption of 32 million people. 

A single, unassuming t-shirt carries a water footprint of approximately 2,700 litres. That’s the equivalent of quenching one person’s thirst for an astonishing 900 days! Yet here’s the kicker: a staggering 92% of that water, along with 85% of the raw materials used in the fashion industry, are sourced from regions often described as traditionally exploited countries. This insatiable thirst for resources not only depletes precious water reserves but also places ecosystems and communities at risk. It’s a stark reminder that our fashion choices ripple far beyond our closets, affecting the very fabric of our planet and the lives of those who call it home. 

Toxic Dyes 

Toxic chemicals, commonly used in the dyeing and finishing processes, don’t simply disappear once the garments are made. Instead, they seep into rivers and water systems, wreaking havoc on aquatic life and ecosystems. Meanwhile, factory workers, predominantly in developing countries, labour under hazardous conditions, often with minimal protective measures in place. 

These dangerous chemicals, including formaldehyde, perfluorinated compounds, azo dyes, and nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs), pose a dual threat. Not only can they come into contact with our skin, potentially leading to health issues, but they also insidiously find their way into every body of water they encounter. This toxic trail, from fashion production to the environment, highlights the pressing need for a shift towards cleaner, more sustainable practices in the fashion industry to safeguard both human lives and the planet we call home.

Microplastic Pollution 

There’s more! With every wash and dry cycle, an unseen deluge of microplastic fibres escapes into our sewage systems, ultimately finding their way into our precious waterways. The reality is that approximately half a million tons of these microplastics make their inexorable journey to the ocean annually. This environmental crisis underscores the urgent need for sustainable fashion choices that reduce our reliance on such materials and minimize the detrimental impact of our clothing on the fragile ecosystems of our planet.

The Social Impact of Fast Fashion 

The underbelly of the fast fashion industry is a stark reality for many workers, a disproportionate number of whom are single mothers and young individuals. Trapped in a relentless cycle, they endure grueling overtime hours under hazardous conditions, all while receiving meager wages, often far below what is necessary to sustain a decent living. Shockingly, 93 percent of brands surveyed by the Fashion Checker have been found guilty of not providing their garment workers with a wage that meets the basic necessities of life. 

The circle of sweatshop labour continued even after the jolting wake-up call of 2013 that exposed the grim reality lurking beneath the glitzy facade of fast fashion. The catastrophic collapse of the Rana Plaza clothing manufacturing complex in Bangladesh left a trail of devastation, claiming the lives of over 1,000 workers. Heart-wrenching images of the disaster flooded the internet, serving as a stark and unflinching reminder that hidden behind those seemingly irresistible $5 price tags are stories of human tragedy and sacrifice. 

The Rana Plaza tragedy was a haunting and chilling event that forced society to confront the profound costs of our fashion choices—costs that extend far beyond what we see on the price tag. It’s a poignant reminder that as consumers, we hold the power to demand transparency, ethical practices, and change within the fashion industry to ensure that such tragedies never happen again. 

Why is Sustainable Fashion So Important? 

At its core, ethical fashion focuses on the cultivation of fair labour practices across its entire supply chain. This commitment extends to ensuring that workers are not only compensated with a living wage but also labour in safe conditions, free from exploitation and the scourge of forced labour. But sustainable fashion is about more than just fairness; it champions social justice, advocating for gender equality, diversity, and inclusivity. In essence, it’s about forging partnerships with suppliers who share these values and treating all workers and stakeholders with the respect and dignity they rightfully deserve. 

Transparency is the watchword of ethical fashion. Unlike their fast fashion counterparts, ethical fashion companies open their books, revealing their environmental impact, practices, and policies, including the intricacies of their supply chains and manufacturing processes. They don’t shy away from accountability, readily acknowledging any negative repercussions they might have on individuals, local economies, or the environment. 

But perhaps the most compelling aspect of sustainable fashion and eco-friendly style is its unwavering embrace of a circular economy and living more sustainably. Here, clothes are designed not for disposal but for reuse, repurposing, or recycling. This fantastic approach minimizes waste, reduces the voracious appetite for new resources, and sets a higher standard for the entire fashion industry. Ethical fashion, in essence, isn’t just a choice in clothing; it’s a powerful movement that champions fairness, sustainability, and a brighter, more compassionate future for the fashion world and the world at large.

The Benefits of Sustainable Fashion

Environmental Conservation 

Sustainable fashion focuses on using eco-friendly materials, minimizing energy consumption, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This fantastic effort contributes to lower carbon footprints in the production process. The industry also focuses on the Preservation of Natural Resources by prioritizing the responsible use of natural resources, such as water and land, reducing their depletion and conserving biodiversity. By avoiding harmful chemicals and dyes, sustainable fashion helps reduce water and soil pollution, protecting ecosystems and human health.

Textile Waste Reduction 

Sustainable fashion pieces are designed to be durable and timeless, discouraging disposable fashion. Plus, the industry encourages recycling and upcycling of old clothing, diverting textile waste from landfills and reducing the need for new resources. This way, we can reduce the amount of clothing ending up in landfills. 

Ethical Labor Practices 

One of the most important benefits of sustainable fashion can be spotted behind the seams. Ethical fashion brands ensure that workers receive fair wages, enabling them to support their families and lead better lives. These companies prioritize safe working environments, reducing the risk of accidents and health hazards for workers. So, workers in the ethical fashion industry are not subjected to exploitation or forced labour, creating more equitable workplaces.

Healthier Clothing 

If your skin is prone to allergic reactions, irritations, or eczema, you already know how bad synthetic fabrics really are. Luckily, a sustainable brand will use natural, organic, and non-toxic materials for their clothing. This means that the fabrics are less likely to contain harmful chemicals, pesticides, or synthetic additives that can be irritating to the skin and harmful to the body. These fabrics are known for their breathability and comfort. They allow for better air circulation, which can help regulate body temperature and reduce sweating and discomfort. And they are biodegradable. 

By now, you know exactly what sustainable fashion is and why is it important, now, let’s focus on the evolution of the eco-friendly style industry!

The Evolution of Sustainable Fashion 

In the early days, sustainability and fashion seemed like an odd couple, but that was before we realized the true cost of our obsession with fast fashion. The fashion industry, notorious for its environmental and social impact, was in desperate need of a makeover. And so, the journey began.

When Did Sustainable Fashion Start? 

The roots of sustainable fashion reach back to the countercultural movements of the late 1960s and mid-1970s, when both ‘hippies’ and ‘punks’ made their mark on the fashion scene. These two rebellious groups shared a common thread in their rejection of mainstream consumerism and their embrace of more sustainable practices. 

They favoured natural fabrics like cotton and hemp over synthetic materials, embracing a simpler way of life that was in harmony with nature. Tie-dye patterns, flowing silhouettes, and handcrafted pieces became their signature style. For the ‘hippies’ or ‘granola girls,’ fashion was a form of self-expression that echoed their values of peace, love, and environmental consciousness. 

Meanwhile, the ‘punks,’ who burst onto the scene in the mid-’70s, introduced a raw and rebellious aesthetic that challenged conventional fashion norms. Their DIY (Do-It-Yourself) ethos encouraged the repurposing and upcycling of clothing, turning discarded items into punk-rock statements. Safety pins, distressed denim, and leather jackets became iconic symbols of their style.

How Did Sustainable Fashion Become Popular? 

While the concepts of sustainability and responsible clothing practices have existed for much longer, the specific term “sustainable fashion” became more widely recognized and used in the 1990s and early 2000s. 

During this period, discussions around eco-consciousness, ethical labour practices, and environmental impact in the fashion industry gained momentum. The Rana Plaza tragedy in Bangladesh in 2013, where a garment factory building collapsed, claiming the lives of over 1,000 workers, further accelerated the conversation around ethical and sustainable fashion practices. 

The first wave of sustainable fashion introduced us to eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo. Designers started to rethink their materials, opting for options that had a lighter footprint on the planet. It was all about embracing natural fibres and reducing the reliance on harmful synthetics. 

As our awareness grew, we couldn’t ignore the harsh realities of the fashion supply chain. Enter phase two: the push for ethical labour practices. Brands began to prioritize fair wages, safe working conditions, and the well-being of their workers. No more turning a blind eye to the hands that make our clothes. 

With the rise of social media and the power of information at our fingertips, transparency has become non-negotiable. Ethical fashion brands opened their books, revealing their practices, supply chains, and environmental impact. They held themselves accountable for any missteps, pushing the boundaries of what fashion brands could be. 

What’s even more exciting is the growing mainstream momentum of sustainable fashion. It’s no longer relegated to niche boutiques or eco-warriors; it’s hitting the mainstream. Iconic designers and major brands are embracing sustainability, proving that style and conscience can coexist.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Fabrics 

Now, let’s focus on sustainable fashion fabrics and their amazing environmental benefits.

Organic Cotton 

Organic cotton, cultivated without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, promotes healthier soil, conserves water, and reduces environmental harm. In reality, Organic cotton farming provides the following benefits reducing the potential of global warming by 46%, acidification by 70%, soil erosion by 26%, blue water consumption by 91%, and primary energy demand by 62%. Plus, its soft and breathable nature makes it ideal for comfortable clothing.

Hemp 

Hemp is a sustainable crop requiring minimal water and synthetic inputs. Its rapid growth rate and soil-enriching properties make it an eco-friendly choice. Per acre, hemp produces up to 250% more fibre than cotton and up to 600% more fibre than flax (linen)! Hemp grows up to 5 meters tall in only 100 days! That’s the quickest growth rate we’ve seen so far! On top of that, hemp fabrics are known for their durability and resistance to mold and UV rays.

Tencel (Lyocell) 

Derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp, mainly eucalyptus, Tencel employs a closed-loop manufacturing process that minimizes waste and chemicals. Tencel fabrics are praised for their silky feel, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties.

Bamboo 

Bamboo, a fast-growing plant, is cultivated with minimal water and pesticides. It regenerates quickly and is biodegradable. Bamboo clothing offers a silky texture, breathability, and eco-friendliness while also being extremely durable. Let’s not forget that it’s anti-bacterial and resistant to wrinkles which minimizes ironing time.

Recycled Polyester 

Created from post-consumer recycled plastic bottles, recycled polyester reduces waste and the need for new polyester production. It provides the same durability as conventional polyester with a lower environmental impact.

Recycled Cotton 

Recycled cotton is crafted from textile waste, reducing the demand for virgin cotton cultivation. This way, sustainable fashion brands manage to conserve water and energy compared to virgin cotton production.

Piñatex (Pineapple Leather) 

Piñatex is an ethical alternative to animal leather, made from pineapple leaf fibres. It supports cruelty-free fashion and lessens the environmental impact of leather production. Also, its production is closed-loop, mainly mechanical, and doesn’t involve toxic chemicals.

Cork Fabric 

Harvested from cork oak trees’ bark without harming the trees, cork fabric is renewable and biodegradable. It’s lightweight, water-resistant, and boasts natural insulation properties. On top of that, it’s 100% natural and vegan, water-repellent, stain-resistant, and scratch-proof which makes it ideal for bags, yoga mats, and shoes! 

Eco-friendly style has certainly come a long way. But the future looks even brighter! 

Future Trends in Eco-Fashion

Digital Product Passport (DPP) for Clothes 

Want to know how much water was used to craft that pair of jeans? Curious about the carbon emissions associated with your favourite coat? Concerned about factory conditions for the workers who made your shoes? The digital passport has got you covered. 

Fashion’s notorious lack of transparency within its supply chains has long been a stumbling block for conscious consumers eager to make informed choices. However, the winds of change are blowing through the industry, and the EU Digital Product Passport (DPP) is poised to lead the charge in revolutionizing the way we shop. 

Seriously, imagine a world where with a simple scan of a QR code, you can gain unprecedented insight into the environmental impact of your fashion choices. Shoppers will be granted access to a treasure trove of verified information, presented in a transparent and honest manner through this small, scannable QR code.

Circular Economy and Upcycling 

The circular fashion economy is all about redefining our relationship with fashion. It’s a revolutionary concept that prioritizes waste reduction and aims to extend the lifespan of clothing. Instead of the traditional linear model of “take, make, dispose,” the circular economy encourages us to “reduce, reuse, and recycle.” It’s about keeping products in circulation for as long as possible, which is not only eco-friendly but also economically savvy. 

Enter upcycling, a dynamic force within the circular economy. Upcycling is the art of breathing new life into old or discarded garments. It takes something once deemed ‘waste’ and transforms it into something beautiful, unique, and valuable. Upcycled fashion pieces tell a story of creativity, sustainability, and the rejection of fast fashion’s throwaway culture.

Digitization and Virtual Fittings 

In the ever-evolving landscape of fashion, digital technologies are paving the way for a shopping revolution, and in 2023, the fusion of digitization and virtual fittings is poised to redefine sustainable fashion practices. You’re shopping for clothes, and instead of wrestling with multiple sizes in a fitting room, you slip into a virtual fitting room right from your device. 

Thanks to virtual fitting rooms and cutting-edge 3D body scanning technologies, you can try on garments virtually, assessing the fit, style, and look without the need to don them physically. It significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with the traditional try-and-return cycle, where multiple shipping and return journeys can take a toll on the environment. By enabling consumers to make informed choices about fit and style from the comfort of their homes, it minimizes the need for unnecessary shipping and returns, thus reducing waste and carbon emissions.

Challenges in Sustainable Fashion 

While sustainable fashion is gaining traction and making positive strides, it’s not without its fair share of challenges.

Cost Barriers 

Sustainable materials, ethical labour practices, and eco-friendly production processes often come at a higher cost. This premium pricing can limit access to sustainable fashion for many consumers, reinforcing the perception that sustainable clothing is a luxury.

Pressure for Mass-Production 

The fast fashion model, driven by constant production and rapid turnover of trends, puts immense pressure on the industry to prioritize quantity over quality. Breaking away from this model requires a significant shift in mindset and business practices.

Supply Chain Complexity 

 Fashion supply chains are notoriously complex, often spanning multiple countries and involving various intermediaries. Ensuring transparency and ethical practices throughout the entire chain can be a daunting task.

Waste Management 

While sustainable fashion aims to reduce waste, textile waste is still a significant issue. Finding effective ways to recycle and repurpose textiles, especially synthetic materials, remains a challenge.

Greenwashing 

It’s no secret that some brands claim to be sustainable without substantiating their claims. Greenwashing, or the deceptive marketing of products as eco-friendly when they are not, can mislead consumers and undermine trust in the industry. 

At the end of the day, sustainable fashion’s evolution depends on innovation, awareness, and a commitment to making lasting positive changes in the way we produce, consume, and value clothing. While there is progress in implementing regulations and standards for sustainable fashion, achieving global alignment and enforcement remains complex.

How to Shop Sustainably and Affordably 

In a world that often encourages us to buy more, embracing minimalism in our wardrobes is a breath of fresh air. It’s a sartorial mindset that encourages us to declutter our clothing collection and only hold onto items that truly add value to our lives. 

Before making that purchase, ask yourself some crucial questions: “What am I buying, and why? Do I genuinely need this in my wardrobe? Will I wear it at least 30 times?” The concept of a capsule wardrobe is a fantastic way to make the most of fewer pieces by investing in key items that can be mixed and matched for multiple outfits. There’s a wealth of online resources available, like minimalist wardrobe checklists, to help guide you on this journey.

Shop Secondhand 

Sustainable fashion influencers have made eco-friendly style the new cool. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and budget-friendly online marketplaces like Poshmark and Depop are treasure troves of gently used clothing in the latest fashion trends, often at a fraction of the cost of new items. Finding hidden gems in thrift stores in a hot topic on social media platforms. Plus, you might stumble upon vintage and retro pieces that add a unique flair to your wardrobe.

Invest in Sustainable Fashion Brands 

Investing in sustainable brands is another smart strategy. While these items may initially come with a higher price tag, their quality and durability mean fewer replacements over time, ultimately reducing waste. It’s a stark contrast to fast fashion, which may seem cheap upfront but can end up costing more due to frequent replacements.

Rent Clothes for Special Occasions 

Renting clothes is an excellent option for special occasions or when you want to experiment with a new trend without committing to a purchase. Services like Rent the Runway and Le Tote let you don designer clothing for a fraction of the cost of buying, making fashion more accessible and sustainable.

Know your Eco-Friendly Materials 

Knowing your materials is key to making eco-conscious choices. Cheap, synthetic materials account for a significant portion of clothing globally– 55%, to be exact. Sustainable fashion encourages us to invest in high-quality pieces made to last, often crafted from eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, hemp, fabrics made from recycled materials and recycled fabrics. Not only are these materials durable, but they also use less water and are free of harmful chemicals, aligning with our commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.

Eco-Friendly Style Tips: How to Take Care of Your Clothes 

Taking care of your clothes is essential to sustainable fashion, ensuring that even premium-quality garments stand the test of time.

Read the Care Labels 

First and foremost, always check the care label on your clothing and follow the recommended instructions for washing, drying, and ironing. This way, you’ll help prevent damage and preserve the durability of your clothes.

Reduce Washing Frequency 

While it’s important to keep your outfit of the day (OOTD) clean, washing clothes too frequently can lead to quicker wear and tear. Try to wear items multiple times before washing, and spot-clean any stains or spills to avoid unnecessary washing.

Choose Eco-Friendly Detergents 

Opt for eco-friendly laundry detergents that are gentle on both your clothes and the environment. Harsh detergents can damage fabric fibres and contribute to pollution.

Use Cold Water 

Washing clothes in cold water not only conserves energy but also prevents damage to fabrics. Hot water can cause shrinkage and fading, which is often unnecessary for most clothing.

Air Dry 

Instead of using a dryer, embrace the sustainable fashion-friendly method of air drying your clothes. Hang them on a drying rack or a clothesline to prevent shrinkage and heat-related damage.

Repair Instead of Discard 

Don’t be quick to throw away clothes with small tears or holes. Consider repairing them to extend their lifespan and reduce waste. Minor fixes can make a big difference. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Wrapping up: Sustainable Fashion Guide 

To truly embrace sustainable fashion, remember the mantra: “Reduce, Repurpose, Rewear, Recycle, Rent, Repair, Resell.” By collectively adopting these principles, we can combat excessive consumerism and the detrimental impact of fast fashion on both our local communities and the planet. 

Sustainable fashion is all about making conscious choices, and the first step is buying only what you genuinely need. It addresses environmental challenges, promotes ethical labour practices, fosters innovation, supports local economies, and contributes to a more responsible and sustainable fashion industry. So, sustainable fashion is not only a personal choice but also a collective effort to create a more equitable and environmentally friendly world.  

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