How to Create the Perfect Sustainable Fall Wardrobe
Every fall, fashion companies put out a new line of cozy, warm-colored clothes. If you love this time of year, it can be hard to resist buying new sweaters, boots or jackets to stay on top of the trends. In reality, most of these trends come around every year, despite the fast fashion industry claiming they are new.
If you want to create the fall wardrobe of your dreams, follow these sustainable tips. The planet and your wallet will thank you later.
Repurpose Your Summer Staples
Say bye to the summer heat, but not your clothes. Stretch your warm-weather wardrobe a bit longer this season. Here’s how to transform your summer staples into fall outfits:
Summer dress: Wear it with a denim jacket and ankle boots for a quick update. You can also layer the dress over thin long-sleeved shirts or pop a pullover on top.
Midi skirt: Tall boots instantly transform a midi skirt from a summer staple to a fall look. Wear it with a simple tee or turtleneck depending on the temperature.
Corset top: A corset pairs well with jeans and boots for the fall. As the weather gets cooler throw a jacket on top for the perfect fall outfit.
When you’re shopping for wardrobe staples, like T-shirts, jackets or button-downs, consider choosing colors that you can wear year-round. Having a few plain white tees and neutral jackets will give you pieces that can match anything in your closet.
Support Sustainable Brands
When you do need to buy something new, invest in high quality, sustainable pieces. Supporting ethical brands like Alternative Apparel, Pact, Tentree, Kotn, Whimsy and Row, Rapanui and Nation LTD reinforces your love for Mother Nature. These companies will make you realize how easy it is to combine style and sustainability.
Buy Clothes That Last
Buy nice or buy twice. High-quality items may have more expensive price tags, but they last longer. Consider these factors when examining clothing qualities:
Fabric: Check fabric materials. Premium garments use durable, comfortable and sustainable fabrics, such as hemp, recycled wool, linen and certified organic cotton.
Details: Assess seams, hems and stitches and see if there are loose threads or fraying.
Structural elements: Check zippers, reinforcements, interfacings and linings.
Pull test: Pull the fabric to assess its elasticity.
Go Thrift Shopping
Purchasing secondhand items is one of the most sustainable ways to buy new clothes because no new materials or energy are required to make them. Visit your local thrift stores or shop guilt-free at sites like Thrifted and ThredUp.
Cozy sweaters and coats are fall must-haves, but brand-new items can be costly. Thrifting them means you can buy them at more affordable prices, plus you’re more likely to find unique pieces.
Avoid Buying Trendy Clothing
Fast fashion items are trendy, affordable garments made using cheap materials with negative environmental impacts. They might be good for your wallet but bad for the environment. It is estimated that 1.27 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide will be released through apparel manufacturing in 2030. Moreover, microplastics from synthetic clothing are polluting the oceans.
Instead of buying trendy pieces, opt for timeless clothing, like an all-weather trench coat, a premium pair of jeans and a classic black dress.
How to Sustainably Maintain Clothes
Here are some tips to prolong the life span of your clothes.
1. Wash With Care
Take note of the fabric and wash according to instructions. Use hydrogen peroxide with a 3% concentration for a more sustainable alternative to bleach. To sanitize, wash with detergent, then run another cycle with hydrogen peroxide for 30 minutes to an hour and a half to kill germs, bacteria and viruses.
2. Store Properly
Fold and hang your clothes properly. Fold woolen items to avoid sagging or use cotton storage bags to allow air circulation. Ensure your garments have enough space in your closet. Practice smart storage habits to keep your clothes in tip-top shape for many years.
3. Find a Reliable Local Tailor
Repairing prolongs your clothes’ lives and helps you save money. Whether your garment has a hole or a missing button, visit a local tailor and have them patch it up.
Embrace Sustainability
Champion eco-friendly fashion habits to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a greener planet. Remember to prioritize quality over quantity and longevity over trends to create a sustainable, stylish wardrobe.
