In a world where fast fashion is dominating the clothing industry, it’s more important than ever to take steps towards building a sustainable wardrobe. One way to do this is by creating a capsule wardrobe, a collection of versatile and timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. But that’s not all you can do. Let’s explore some ways to reduce waste and embrace sustainable fashion by upcycling clothes, finding secondhand items, and putting measures in place to stop yourself from overbuying.
Building a Capsule Wardrobe
A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of essential pieces that can be worn in different combinations to create a variety of outfits. This approach to dressing minimises waste, saves money, and simplifies the process of getting dressed. To create a capsule wardrobe, start by taking stock of what you already own. Look for classic and versatile pieces that can be worn in different ways, such as black pants, a white shirt, and a denim jacket. Then, add a few statement pieces to inject personality and interest into your outfits. Caroline has worked with two stylists, Tony in Melbourne and Meranda in The Gold Coast. Both of these ladies can help you create a capsule wardrobe with the pieces you already own!
Upcycling Clothes
Upcycling is the process of transforming old or unwanted clothing into something new and desirable. Instead of throwing away old clothes, consider upcycling them into something you’ll love. This can be done by adding embellishments, altering the shape or fit, or even creating a completely new garment. Upcycling clothes not only reduces waste but also gives you the opportunity to create something unique and personal. There are a bunch of content creators on Instagram or TikTok that offer creative ways to upcycle clothing, simply search “upcycling clothes” into the search bar of the app!
Finding Secondhand Items
One of the best ways to reduce waste and support sustainable fashion is by opting for secondhand clothes. If you see something you like in the store, why not check if anyone is selling it secondhand before purchasing it brand new? Facebook marketplace, Depop, eBay and Facebook groups are all great places to find secondhand items. When shopping for secondhand clothes, look for high-quality pieces that are in good condition. Pay attention to the fit and make sure it compliments your body shape. By buying secondhand clothes, you’ll not only save money but also reduce your impact on the environment.
Putting Measures in Place to Stop Overbuying
The temptation to buy more clothes than we need can be overwhelming. It’s so easy now to over consume, especially with online shopping. It’s important to resist this urge if we want to build a sustainable wardrobe, let alone save money! To stop overbuying clothes, start by setting a clothing budget and sticking to it. Only buy clothes that you know you’ll wear and that fit within your capsule wardrobe. Avoid impulse purchases by taking time to consider each item before making a purchase, “sleep on it”. And finally, practice mindful consumption by taking care of the clothes you already own and avoiding unnecessary purchases. We love this post from Emma that shares 3 things she’s learnt since stopping purchasing clothes.
Building a sustainable wardrobe is all about making conscious choices. By creating a capsule wardrobe, upcycling clothes, finding secondhand items, and putting measures in place to stop overbuying, you can embrace sustainable fashion and reduce your impact on the environment. Remember, it’s not about perfection but progress, so start small and make changes that feel doable for you.
