Sustainable and Conscious Fashion: Embracing Ethical Esoterism
April 20, 2024 |
In our current society, where the fashion industry is often associated with negative environmental and social impacts, there is a growing movement towards sustainable and conscious fashion. And it is about time! There is no other way for us to foster a better future for our planet and its inhabitants than to embrace ethical esoterism within the fashion industry. If we keep on going at the rate we are going, our resources will be depleted, our ecosystems will suffer, and the lives of garment workers will continue to be exploited which is just not okay at any level.
The fashion industry is one of the biggest pollutants of our planet, producing immense amounts of waste and consuming vast amounts of water, and with the trend cycles changing so quickly thanks to social media (looking at you TikTok) fast fashion is on the rise. But perhaps it is time to slow down and take a more sustainable and conscious approach to our fashion choices.
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Sustainable and Conscious Fashion: An Overview
Sustainable and conscious fashion refers to a movement within the fashion industry that aims to minimize its negative impact on the environment and society. There are so many ways to achieve this, from buying clothing second-hand to investing in quality, well-made garments that can stand the test of time, rather than giving into overconsumption and supporting fast fashion brands such as Shein or Zara.
By embracing ethical esoterism, we can ensure that our fashion choices align with our values and contribute to a more sustainable and conscious future. We can’t call ourselves super spiritual, enlightened beings if we continue to turn a blind eye to the destructive practices of the fashion industry and give in to the destruction of the planet. Earth is our home and we need to do everything we can to preserve and protect it for future generations.
How to Shop Consciously and Embrace Ethical Esoterism in Fashion
To shop consciously and embrace ethical esoterism in fashion, there are several steps that can be taken:
1. Educate Yourself:
Learn about the negative impacts of the fashion industry and the importance of sustainable and ethical practices. The more knowledgeable you are, the better equipped you will be to make conscious choices that align with your values. Educating yourself can be done through reading articles, and books, and watching documentaries about sustainable fashion and its impact on the environment and society.
2. Stop Giving In To Trends:
Another step you can take is to stop giving in to fast fashion trends. Instead of constantly buying new clothes just because they’re trendy, focus on building a timeless and versatile wardrobe. Stop letting online personalities influence you into buying things you don’t need or won’t wear more than once. Resist fast fashion trends and the pressure to constantly update your wardrobe. Embrace a minimalist approach by cultivating a capsule wardrobe with versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched.
3. Support Sustainable Brands:
Identify and support conscious fashion brands that are transparent about their production processes, engage in fair labour practices, and actively work towards sustainability. Many such companies will have certifications or statements regarding their commitments. A brand that is committed to sustainability will shout it loud and proud, if you have to look for the information then it’s likely not a truly sustainable brand.
4. Prioritize Sustainable Materials:
There are so many amazing materials that have a much lower impact on the environment than materials like polyester. Some sustainable materials to prioritize include organic cotton, hemp, linen, Tencel (made from sustainably harvested wood pulp), and recycled fabrics. They might cost a bit more, but their production often requires less water, energy, and chemicals compared to traditional materials. These materials also tend to last a lot longer!
5. Purchase Second-Hand:
Consider shopping for clothing and accessories second-hand to reduce waste and support the circular economy. Buying second-hand clothing not only reduces the demand for new clothes but also gives existing items a longer lifespan. This not only prevents waste but also discourages the production of more items. Thrift stores, vintage shops, and online platforms are great sources for second-hand fashion. You could probably sell your own clothes that you no longer wear and use the proceeds to buy other second-hand items.
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6. Care And Repair:
When buying clothing it is so important to become knowledgeable on how to properly take care of your garments. This includes following care instructions, washing clothes in cold water, air drying instead of using a dryer and avoiding excessive or unnecessary dry cleaning. This can extend the longevity of your clothes and reduce the need for frequent replacements. And when little rips or tears occur, learn basic sewing skills to make simple repairs instead of discarding the item.
7. Build A Capsule Wardrobe:
Building a capsule wardrobe is a great way to shop consciously and minimize your environmental impact. A capsule wardrobe consists of a limited number of high-quality, versatile pieces that you can mix and match to create various outfits. By investing in timeless and durable pieces, you can reduce the need for constant buying. And you contribute to a more conscious fashion industry. You also get to really enjoy your wardrobe and express your personal style through different combinations of the same pieces.
If you are interested in buying pieces that are more conscious and sustainable, then you might want to check out these brands:
Patagonia: Known for its commitment to sustainability, Patagonia focuses on using organic and recycled materials, fair trade practices, and reducing its carbon footprint.
Everlane: Everlane is transparent about its pricing and production process and focuses on ethical manufacturing, sustainable materials, and reducing waste.
Reformation: Reformation emphasizes sustainable practices like using eco-friendly fabrics, recycling water, and reducing waste in their production process.
Sézane: Sézane is a French brand that prioritizes transparency, ethical production, and sustainable materials in their fashion collections while still maintaining an air of Parisian chicness.
Stella McCartney: Stella McCartney is a luxury brand that is known for its dedication to sustainable and ethical fashion. This brand has been an eco-conscious pioneer in the fashion world, paving the way for sustainable practices and materials for many other brands.
Levi’s: Levi’s is committed to sustainability through its Water<Less™ technology, which reduces water usage in the production of their denim, as well as its efforts to promote recycling and reduce waste in its supply chain.
ThreadUp: ThreadUp is an online second-hand marketplace where you can buy and sell gently used clothing. It is like visiting your local thrift store, except, you get to do it online!
Rent the Runway: Rent the Runway offers a rental service for designer clothing and accessories. It allows consumers to access high-quality fashion without contributing to excessive consumerism and waste.
Transforming Your Shopping Habits for a Better World
You need to start taking the time to research and understand the brands you support. These brands might be fashionable, but they might not be the best for the environment. Instead, look for brands that prioritize sustainability, ethical production practices, and transparency in their supply chain. By choosing these brands, you are voting with your wallet and supporting companies that are working towards a more sustainable and conscious fashion industry. You are also able to reduce your own environmental impact by opting for eco-friendly fabrics and materials. Buying second-hand or renting clothes instead of always buying new, and supporting brands that want to reduce waste. The responsibility starts with you making better choices, and collectively we can create a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry for a better tomorrow.
