Sustainability Is In: How to Practice Sustainable Fashion this Winter

The way we express ourselves is everything, and what we choose to put on our bodies every day is a big part of that expression. Whether you are a trendsetter or clothes are just something that you don't really have an opinion on, where we source our clothes from should be just as much of an expression. Approximately 120 million tons of clothing waste was produced in 2024. That means the amount of clothing that is disposed of each year weighs as much as 533,333 Statues of Liberty. That is nothing less than insanity. Not to mention that the most common fabric types found in landfills are some sort of polyester blend, which is not easy to recycle.

It's easy to realize how much of a waste it is to throw away clothing or overconsume clothing as well. You don't need a new outfit for every vacation, event, work trip, etc. It's okay to recycle what you already have, especially if you own staple pieces and everyday basics. While affordable options such as Shein seem enticing when clothes are so expensive, it's also entirely possible to stay on trend while also being budget-friendly. The trend cycle moves so quickly and is always on a continuous loop, so even old clothes from deep in your closet can be reworn as something entirely new. All you have to do is just get a little bit creative.

So how do we as a society move away from this type of mass consumption and disposal? There are so many ways to stay sustainable while also looking your best, and here are some of my favorites.

Thrifting

Thrifting has become a much bigger practice over the last decade. It is also a great way to prevent clothes from ending up in landfills and instead giving them a new home and life. In my experience, the best thrifts are the small-owned non-profit ones in your area. Goodwill, although largely owned, is also non-profit as well and has such a large selection of clothing to choose from. Places like Plato's Closet and other consignment stores are good choices too, although I would not recommend selling your clothes to them because consignments are very specific about what they take.

Clothing Rental Services

Another amazing resource for big events or vacations are services like Nuuly or Rent the Runway. When going on vacation, we often buy clothes that we will probably wear once and never again, but when it comes to having a Nuuly subscription, you don't have to worry about that. You pay a monthly subscription to receive 6 items of your choice and then send them back in the same case it comes in. They even give you the return label too! You can also pause and unpause your Nuuly subscription whenever you please. Not to mention their packaging is super eco-friendly. They send you your order in a reusable zip-up case with no extra packaging added in. It's perfect for life events that you need new outfits for, but don't want to pay hundreds of dollars for.

Stop Buying from Shein and Other Fast Fashion Brands

As tempting as it is to buy cheap clothing in bulk from Shein, it's horrible for the planet. According to Yale Climate Connections, 76% of the fabric that Shein uses is polyester, and only 6% of that is properly recycled. Not to mention the various accusations from 2023 and 2024 that they use child labor. In this economy, Shein looks like an enticing way to save money, but the clothes won't last you very long in the long run. Investing in a few more expensive pieces will last you much longer because they are better quality.

Try Doing a Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is best described as a small curated set of clothes, usually basics that can be styled interchangeably. It is a great way to downsize your closet as well as eliminate your overconsumption while still staying stylish. It sounds daunting, but it can help you creatively style pieces that you already have in your closet.

Actively participating in sustainable practices is far from uncool. In my opinion it's always cool to care about the environment and the footprint we leave behind us on Earth. Safe shopping!!!