Glitter and sequins have long been symbols of glamour, worn by everyone from Tinkerbell to David Bowie’s alter ego, Ziggy Stardust. They transform any outfit, adding a magical touch and reminding us that life is meant to be celebrated. But with the growing awareness of environmental issues, it’s time to rethink how we sparkle. The good news? You can still dazzle—just more sustainably.
Glitter and sequins have been around for centuries, with ancient civilizations using natural materials like stones, minerals, and even beetles to create shimmering effects. The Egyptians adorned their garments with sequin-like disks, and by the Renaissance, sequins were a sign of wealth and status.
Fast forward to the 1930s when modern glitter was invented by a machinist in New Jersey. The new glitter, made from plastic, quickly became a staple in fashion, art, and pop culture. From David Bowie’s glittery Ziggy Stardust persona to today’s sparkly festival looks, glitter has always been a go-to for adding a little magic.
While glitter and sequins make us feel fabulous, their environmental impact is far from glamorous. Most modern glitter is made from microplastics—tiny particles of plastic that don’t break down easily. When we wash off glitter, it ends up in our oceans, where marine life mistakes it for food. These particles then make their way up the food chain, ultimately affecting our ecosystem.
It’s predicted that by 2050, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish, by weight. In addition to glitter, microbeads—tiny plastic particles found in many beauty products—contribute to this growing problem.
So, how do we continue to enjoy the magic of glitter and sequins while reducing our environmental footprint? Here are some easy ways to make your sparkle more eco-friendly:
If you love sequined clothing, invest in high-quality pieces made from ethical and sustainable materials. Vintage or second-hand items are also great options. Before purchasing, consider the labor involved—if a sequin-covered dress is priced too low, the workers who made it were likely paid very little.
Eco-friendly glitter is a game-changer for those who love to shine. Brands like EcoStardust, EcoGlitterfun, and TodayGlitter offer biodegradable glitter made from plant-based materials like eucalyptus. These glitters break down naturally in the environment and are just as sparkly as traditional glitter.
If you’re crafting or creating a sequin-covered look, check out The Sustainable Sequin Company, which offers biodegradable sequins perfect for fashion and art projects.
When it’s time to remove your glitter makeup or clothes, use a washcloth to wipe it off and throw it in the trash, rather than washing it down the drain. This simple step helps prevent microplastics from reaching our water systems.
Scour thrift stores for vintage sequin or glitter garments. If you’re feeling crafty, repurpose old pieces into new, sparkly creations without contributing to new plastic production.
There will always be moments that call for a little extra sparkle—whether it’s a festival, a holiday party, or just a night out. The key is to find ways to shine responsibly. Many brands now offer eco-friendly glitter products, so you can enjoy that special sparkle without harming the planet.
Meet biodegradable sparkles – Eco Stardust / Photo by Eco Stardust
Sustainability doesn’t mean you have to give up the fun of glitter and sequins. By making mindful choices—like investing in high-quality garments, choosing biodegradable glitter, and being conscious of how you dispose of sparkly items—you can still dazzle and shine without the guilt.
Remember, it’s all about making small changes. Whether you’re opting for biodegradable glitter for your next event or finding that perfect vintage sequin dress, your choices can make a big difference.
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