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10 Essential Steps to Create a Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Closet

Ready to revolutionize your wardrobe and embrace sustainable fashion? Our 10-step roadmap will guide you in creating a closet that’s stylish, eco-friendly, and uniquely yours. From understanding the impact of fast fashion to hosting swap parties and choosing quality over quantity, start your journey to a more sustainable closet today!

Step 1. Start with Awareness

Understanding the impact of “fast fashion” is the first step. Dive into the documentary True Cost to learn about the industry’s effects on the environment and workers. Explore sustainable fashion resources to educate yourself further, like this short animated video from SokFok Studio.

 
 

Step 2. Stop Buying Unnecessary Items

You probably already have enough clothes for countless great looks! Focus on mixing and matching the pieces you own rather than adding more to your closet. Remember, sustainable living isn’t about looking drab—it’s about making smarter choices.

There’s a cute little book illustrated and written by Sarah Lazarovic called A Bunch of Pretty Things I Did Not Buy. It explores the concept of ‘slow fashion’ and features a brilliant illustration of the ‘Buyerarchy of Needs’.

Pyramid of Maslow
 
 

Step 3. Rent Clothing

Why buy new when you can rent? Platforms like Rent The Runway and Nuuly offer endless options for a rotating closet of designer pieces. Renting is perfect for refreshing your style without the commitment of owning more clothes.
 

Rent clothing with NUULY

 

Step 4. Host a Swap Party

Swap parties are a fun way to update your wardrobe sustainably. Invite friends over for a fun evening of trading clothes you no longer need. It’s a win-win for everyone!
 
swap parties 
 

Step 5. Shop Second-Hand

Explore thrift stores and online platforms ThreadUp, The RealReal, Tradesy, Grailed, Rebag, Poshmark, and Depop. You can also find pre-owned sections on some large retailer websites like Farfetch and Patagonia.
 
 

Step 6. Make Your Own Clothes

Feeling crafty? Try making your own clothes. It’s a creative way to personalize your wardrobe while learning a new skill. From YouTube videos to websites like Skillshare, Creative Bug, and Udemy, there are thousands of people excited to teach you about fashion making and sewing.

 

Step 7. Choose Sustainable Materials

Opt for eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton, linen, hemp, and recycled materials. These choices help reduce your environmental footprint and promote a more sustainable fashion industry.
 
organic cotton, sustainable capsule wardrobe
 
 

Step 8. Know Your Brands

Research the brands you buy from. Tools like the Good On You app provide insights into a brand’s sustainability practices, helping you make informed choices. Fair Wear Foundation serves the same mission.

 

Step 9. Invest in Quality, Not Quantity

Focus on buying fewer, high-quality pieces that will last longer and stay in style. This approach not only saves you money in the long run but also reduces waste.

 

10. Join the Fashion Revolution

Get involved with organizations like Fashion Revolution, which advocate for a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry. Fashion Revolution is a global movement that brings people and organizations together to rethink how our clothes are made. Want to get involved? You can join the #whomademyclothes and #haulternative campaigns, use their fun social media templates to spread the word, or even make a donation. The incredible resources they offer could completely transform how you think about fashion!

 

Ready to Transform Your Closet?

Building a sustainable wardrobe might seem daunting, but it’s a rewarding journey that benefits both you and the planet. Start with small steps, and don’t be afraid to seek help. At Sparkpick, our personal stylists and life coaches are here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s make sustainable fashion a reality together!

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Learn & shop

Shop sustainable clothing while learning about its positive impact on the planet.