Best Ways to Find Sustainable and Affordable Fashion

By Madison Walloch

Below are some amazing ways to find or make affordable and sustainable fashion:

Second-Hand/Thrifts

Image from freepik.com

Shopping second-hand is a great way to shop for sustainable fashion and help the environment by conserving natural resources, cutting down on pollution from manufacturing, and lowering carbon emissions associated with the fashion industry. Second-hand stores sell clothing that has been used but is still in great condition. Most times, the garment just needs a wash, then it's like brand new. Most thrift stores offer 50-80% off brand-new prices! Sometimes you can even find name brands at the thrift. For example, American Eagle jeans that are originally sixty dollars or more are at the thrift for less than ten dollars!

My Top Three Second-Hand/Thrift Stores:

1. Plato's Closet: it is easy to find name brands and more relevant styles at these stores.

2. Goodwill: it is one of the more popular thrift stores, so it’s easy to get to and usually close by. They can have great options if you look, such as name brands. Prices are typically very low.

3. Garage Sells: going to a community garage sell can be a fun all-day activity to find cheap garments!

Upcycling/DIY

Upcycling can bring life to your or someone else's old clothes. Finding an old-fashioned garment and taking a pair of scissors or a needle and thread to it can make a whole new look. For example, cutting the bottom of a shirt can make it a crop top or cutting off the collar and stretching it can make it an off-the-shoulder tee. You can also change the way you wear an item to make a different look, like flipping the collar of a button-up or rolling up the sleeves. Changing the way you layer clothes is also a great way to make a new look. Reusing clothes is a great way to reduce waste!

Shop for Quality Over Quantity

Higher quality pieces often last longer and can be worn more often, compared to fast fashion items that only last for a few wears. Make sure you check the material of the clothes you are buying to ensure their quality. Shop with the idea that the clothes can take some wear and tear. Even though it might be more costly, investing in durable clothes will save you money in the long-run by not having to keep replacing items. With more wears, your investment will pay off over time. Also, only invest in clothes you really like and need. Buy clothes that match what your style is, not what is trendy. By wearing a garment more, you'll be contributing to less pollution.