Green Fashion: 7 Reasons Why You Should Care About Sustainable Fashion
5. It's More Personal
Photo via Alicia Nijdam @ flickr The same criteria you keep in mind when buying the food that goes into your body applies to picking out the clothes that will go on it, and one of the biggest is thinking local. Check nearby boutiques for fashions from designers in your area (it's even better if they're produced locally), and call on your favorite neighborhood tailor to keep your favorite pieces fitting perfectly. Bonus: Skipping the mall will often give you more personalized service, and make developing your own style sense easier. You won't risk showing up at work in the same off-the-rack style as your coworkers, and your clothes won't have the carbon footprint of brands shipped all over the country.
6. It's Easier (and Cheaper) to Take Care of Your Clothes
Photo via tracitodd @ flickr Buying sustainable is just the first step: How you take care of your clothes once you get them home can also make a difference in your wardrobe's environmental impact. Wash your clothes on the cold cycle to trim your energy use (as compared to hot water) and use biodegradable detergent to prevent chemicals from polluting the earth; line dry instead of using the dryer to save even more energy, and give yourself a break from the dry cleaner to save time, money, and resources.
7. It's More Than Just Organic
Photo via kthread @ flickrWe've already mentioned local designers and timeless pieces, but sustainable clothing also includes vintage pieces and handmade options--both of which make your wardrobe one-of-a-kind. Check thrift stores for vintages shapes and patterns that you won't find at the chain stores, and whip out your sewing machine (or call on a crafty friend) to add embellishments, tailoring, and embroidery to make each piece your own.
