The rise of unnatural fibers in clothing, such as polyester, is not sustainable and harming the environment. While production of this clothing is cheaper than using natural fibers such as hemp, it also costs more energy to make and the dyes used can be toxic. Often, the working conditions in the overseas factories are deplorable for the workers.
Eco-friendly clothing is not only better for the environment, but also feel great to wear. Several clothing brands are focusing on natural fiber clothing and safe dies, but this drives up the cost.
You don’t have to spend an arm and leg to be environmentally conscious, so check out these tips.
Buy Eco-Friendly Clothing, But Less of It
The days of having massive walk-in closets filled with clothes you’ll never wear are over. If you want to be environmentally conscious, then less is more. If you find a brand of sustainable clothing, then stick with it but buy less than you normally would.
Instead of buying five shirts a month, buy three. Today’s clothes handle washing better than previous generations. Sustainable clothing also tends to be sturdier than polyester and other unnatural fibers. You don’t need a new outfit for every day of the month.
Resale Shops Are Perfect For Sustainable Clothing
Retro clothing and resale shops are incredibly popular now as people want to save money and not pay full price from retail. Groups like Goodwill and Salvation Army receive thousands of articles of clothing and sell them at rock bottom prices.
If you search carefully, then you might find sustainable and eco-friendly clothing at a fraction of the cost. Many times people donate new clothing that has never been worn. You must be vigilant and check the tags, etc. to make sure the clothing is made from sustainable fibers.
Shop Directly from the Brand
Retail stores mark up their prices because they purchase the items from the original brand source. Sustainable clothing is a niche business and many times the brands come from small businesses that you can purchase from directly.
Buying from the brand instead of a third party cuts out the middle man and saves you the retail markup. If you find a brand you like, then search for them online and see if you can buy directly from their website.
Keep an Eye Out For Sales
Everyone loves a sale. Big box stores have them all the time, so keeping an eye out for holiday sales, etc. can snag you quality clothing without the shocking price tag.
It’s not just big box stores either. Small sustainable business brands have sales too, but you’ll likely not know about them unless you subscribe to their newsletter.
Newsletters go our frequently and showcase items on sale or clearance.
Sustainable Clothing Isn’t Just For the Rich
If you suffer from sticker shock when looking for eco-friendly clothing, you’re not alone. It’s a fact that they’re more expensive than the cheaper and environmentally harmful unnatural fiber clothing.
If you heed these tips, then you can also grab sustainable clothing on a budget. If you want to learn more about sustainable clothing or sustainable living, then explore our site.
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