)
Everyone needs clothes. Period. Having said that, there’s no need for overflowing wardrobes and crammed drawers - you can look good and feel comfortable without over-consuming. But how do we dress more sustainably – or rather, how do we get a more sustainable wardrobe? Here are 6 suggestions on how to create a more sustainable closet.
1. Check the Labels
Shopping sustainably means taking responsibility for the entire supply chain. Check the composition and choose natural fibers first. Look for certifications like ROC™, GOTS, or Fairtrade — these ensure you support the people working from the fields to the factories and protect yourself from toxic chemicals.
2. Invest smart
When shopping, choose items that can be styled in multiple ways—a dress that works for the office by day and a party by night is a perfect example. Versatility is key to a sustainable wardrobe.
3. Wash with Care
Many of us wash clothes more often or at higher temperatures than necessary. Always check the care labels and try washing at cooler temperatures—it keeps your clothes clean while using less energy and extending their lifespan.
4.Fast Fashion and Sale traps
Beware of the sale trap. Of course, it's fun to find clothes at a reduced price, but the risk with big sales is that you shop because it's cheap - not because you need to or like the clothes. So, think twice before heading to the checkout - do I need this? Do I have anything at home like this?
5. Shop secondhand
By shopping secondhand, you take a big step towards a more sustainable wardrobe. In this way, you contribute to the reuse of clothes, instead of new production. So, if you haven't already done so, start exploring the range of secondhand shops for the opportunity to find garments that are nicer to your wallet and the environment.
6. Hand in old clothes
Eventually, all clothes reach the end of the road. They might get too big or too small, break or discolor, or you might simply not have any use for them anymore. The best thing you can do in this situation is to hand them in, either to a secondhand shop, a charity, or a recycling center. This way, you do what you can to prolong their life cycle.