A Quick Beginner's Guide to Sustainable Fashion | What It Is, What to Look For & Where to Find It

Are you new to this beautiful world of sustainable fashion and want a quick overview? Do you want to start dressing sustainably, but don't know where to begin? This guide is for you!

So, what exactly is sustainable fashion? There is no cut and dry definition because, well, sustainability is a term you can apply to just about everything. It’s a balanced concept with an ultimate goal of sustaining the world in which we live. It’s about future generations being able to enjoy the same luxuries we do today (and maybe more). Sustainable fashion, more specifically, can be defined as clothing, shoes and accessories that are manufactured, marketed and consumed in the most sustainable manner possible. It includes both environmental and socioeconomic perspectives. In practice, this implies continuous work to improve all stages of the product’s life cycle, from design to recycling of the product and its components, and everything in between.

For a garment to be considered ‘sustainable,’ it should be eco-friendly, ethically-made, durable, and accessible. The complete definition is much more involved, but these are the key characteristics we look for when considering our purchases.

There are so many different ways you can be involved with sustainable fashion, and you can start in your very own closet! However, if you're looking to add something new to your collection, check out the Brands We Love section of the site. Please note: these brands are not perfect, but are doing their best to improve the industry while taking care of our beautiful home. Not a fan of new pieces? Go thrifting and add some preloved garments to your collection. It's good for the planet, and your wallet! Not satisfied with either option or can't find what you're looking for at a sustainable brand or thrift store? It's perfectly okay to purchase a garment you know will be in your closet for many years. These types of purchases hold their weight in longevity. Or, if you aren't in the mood to shop at all, try looking in your own closet. Play with what you have and you might end up falling in love with it all over again!

Sustainability looks different for everyone, so the route you choose may be a bit different than the ones we love, and that's okay! Regardless of how you choose to begin your journey to sustainable fashion, keep an open mind and remember, we only have one Earth: let's take care of it. <3