While you may not know this, the fashion industry is the worldโs second-biggest contributor to pollution. This fact probably comes as a shock to you. However, there is light at the end of this tunnel.
As consumers become more aware of the great harm they have caused the environment, the quest for sustainable clothing has taken off at a fast rate. It thus begs that clothing manufacturers would seek ways to meet this growing demand for eco-friendly clothes. And one way of doing so is by embracing sustainable clothing.
Why Buy Sustainable Clothing?
But what does sustainability mean when it comes to clothing? Ideally, it would mean that people would stick to what they have and not buy more clothes. However, fashion does not work like this. Instead, it is an ever-changing industry with trends coming up all the time. Manufacturers are thus better off using sustainable means to make the clothes, hence the eco-friendly options.
Sustainability thus comes in during sourcing raw materials, processing times through to delivery, and using the clothes. While having a sustainable wardrobe may have you thinking of some dull clothes that would not make it to the runway, it is hardly the case. Some of the jaw-dropping clothes you see on the streets come from sustainable clothing manufacturers.ย
Take the example of LINENFOX Clothes. This brand deals with organic linen and features a line of accessories, dresses, jumpsuits, skirts, jackets, shorts, pants, and tops. Since 2014, the company has been operating in Lithuania, employing organic-certified linen that is free of toxins. Anyone who wants a simple and high-quality linen garment at a fair price can find a home in this company.
Top Trends in Eco-Friendly Fashion
Now that we have established that sustainable clothing does not have to be an eyesore, what options are available to you?
Econyl
Who knew that regenerated nylon waste could end up in someoneโs wardrobe? From stockings to leggings to tights, this fabric is useful in the making of many garments. Most big brands have adopted its use over the use of virgin nylon. And guess what that means? Less waste! Thatโs a win right there. It also looks great, which is a plus for fashion lovers.
Rent-a-Garment
Did you know that you can rent a garment? Well, you can! Many clothing companies have adopted this new way of doing business. Consumers can walk in and rent clothes for specific use and bring them back once theyโre done. The same clothes will be in a cycle of use-return-use for a long time. Also, the companies extend their services to repairing the garments. So, if you have ever wanted to own a pair of designer jeans but donโt like its impact on the environment, hereโs your chance! Not only does it save you money, but it also saves the planet!
Reusing
Here, we are not talking about you giving your old clothes away for someone else to use. Instead, it refers to the use of waste materials from manufacturers. Many young designers have taken on this trend. They find the waste from the ready clothes and use this to come up with versatile pieces. They then offer these to the market at attractive prices and without the adverse environmental impact. They refer to it as up-cycling. Itโs a win-win!
Plant-Based Leather
Now that animal leather has become the subject of controversy; more people are looking into the use of plant fibers. These plant-based leathers and textiles are not only lighter but also more affordable. Also, they look and feel good.
Ethical Sneakers
You have probably seen a pair of ethical sneakers at some point โ be it on the gram or someoneโs feet. It makes sense that fashion would go down this road. Think about it. Each year, companies make more than 20 billion sneakers. Given that these shoes do not last long, people toss out an average of 300 million pairs each year. At present, less than 10% of these shoes get recycled. Most of these shoes feature materials that do not break down, thus causing the environment harm.
With ethical sneakers, the impact on the environment is low throughout the productโs life cycle. Also, the manufacturers adhere to sustainable production and labor practices, with some proceeds going to charity.
Times are changing. Gone are the days when people would adorn real fur coats and walk down the streets without knowing how they had impacted the environment. People are becoming more aware, and with this awareness, more companies are moving towards sustainable clothing. And no, this does not mean that you have to wear dull clothes. The choices are even getting better!
