From recycled packaging to living wage commitments, sustainable fashion is having its moment in the spotlight. As awareness grows about the potentially devastating effects of our fast-fashion habits, eco-friendly alternatives are popping up on the runway in the form of vibrant, sustainable designs. As more industry players are taking notice, it’s easy to see how sustainable fashion is quickly becoming the trend of the future.
I. The Need for Sustainable Fashion
As the carbon footprint of the fashion industry continues to degrade the environment, it’s increasingly important to make informed decisions when selecting our fashion. Sustainable fashion, or eco-fashion, is a movement to make more mindful decisions when buying clothes, accessories, and other apparel.
Adopting sustainable fashion means supporting brands that take active measures to reduce their environmental impact. Brands may use eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester, or natural rubber, and there are entire fashion lines that are vegan as well. Additionally, buying second-hand or buying local both contribute to sustainable fashion.
Sustainable fashion is about cultivating a deeper appreciation for clothing and other apparel. It’s about investing in lasting items that won’t sit in your closet or end up in landfills. If we can start to think twice about what we wear, then we can begin to create a better future for the planet as well.
II. Eco-Friendly Fabrics and Textiles
In fashion, it is becoming increasingly important to use materials that are not only fashionable, but also sustainable. Eco-friendly fabrics and textiles offer a great solution to this fashion dilemma and more manufacturers are beginning to recognize this trend. Here are some of the most popular eco-friendly fabrics and textiles:
- Hemp: Hemp is an incredibly durable fabric that is also quite versatile, making it a great choice for all types of clothing. It is non-allergenic, antifungal, and resistant to UV rays. Plus, hemp requires no pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers to grow.
- BAMBOO: Bamboo is another popular eco-friendly choice for clothing. It is naturally hypoallergenic, antibacterial, and moisture-wicking, making it an ideal fabric for warm climates. Bamboo can also be turned into a very soft fabric that is perfect for clothing and other textiles.
- ORGANIC COTTON: Organic cotton is grown without any synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, so it is considered a green fabric. It is also very breathable, absorbent, and comfortable. Plus, organic cotton has been proven to have a much lower environmental impact than traditional cotton.
Eco-friendly fabrics and textiles have numerous advantages and they are becoming more and more popular as more consumers recognize the benefits of sustainability. By making the switch to more sustainable fashion, you can do your part to reduce your environmental footprint.
III. Green Runway Inspiration
When it comes to green runway inspiration, take a trip to the wonders of nature, and you can’t help but get inspired. From the freshness of the grass to the glistening of the shore, there is no denying the calming beauty of the land.
For a truly magical look, seek hue variations of green in your garments. Pulling a look together with soft shades of olive or coal, is a subtle and sophisticated way to style green. Or, for a bolder statement, combine a medley of bright shades like turquoise and lime. Craft an enchanting outfit to be remembered.
To truly bring green to the forefront, invest in ethically-made and sustainable pieces. Materials such as rayon, cotton, bamboo, or, even hemp are great alternatives. Adding an accessory like a hanging headpiece or sheer masks made from natural fibres can take the ensemble to the next level. Be conscious of your fashion choices and keep heads turning!
IV. Celebrating Sustainable Style
Sustainable style has become more than just a passing trend. Thanks to the work of many individuals and companies, sustainable fashion is now a mainstream movement. Given the ever-growing awareness of the climate crises, sustainability isn’t just a passing phase, but an institution to be celebrated throughout the world.
Using your wardrobe to express your deep concern for the environment doesn’t have to be all dull and beige. You can even find a pop of colour and some sunshine sprinkled on the many well-crafted sustainable garments. There is beauty in sustainability, and embracing it is a sign of being ahead of the curve.
What’s more, there are more and more eco-friendly trends to try, from:
- Rental fashion, which allows you to wear the same garment multiple times without having to commit to a single purchase.
- Compostable fashion, cutting out waste and emissions with production coming from sustainable farming and zero water discharge.
- Animal-free fashion, providing an ethical alternative to animal by-products such as leather and wool.
These new trends make it easier than ever to express your commitment to sustainability while maintaining a fashionable wardrobe1
As sustainability continues to become an ever-more pressing concern, eco-friendly fashion will undoubtedly remain a core part of the conversation. It is a continually evolving industry, one that has the power to reshape our world and make a positive impact on our future. So why not make a conscious effort towards stylish sustainability – and make fashion a force for good.