We know there is nothing quite like retail therapy. We love growing our personal style and spending our hard earned pay-checks on new additions to our wardrobes, but what’s the real cost?
The fashion industry is responsible for 10% of the world’s carbon emissions.
That’s why we are calling all fashion fanatics. The verdict is in – truly sustainable brands are in, and fast fashion is out! Times are changing, and these days, hot girls shop sustainably.
Plenty of brands use sustainability as their claim-to-fame without the stats to back it up. So, in honour of Earth Day today, don’t fall victim to greenwashing and cut through the BS. Find the brands that walk the walk – here is your 10-step checklist to help you work out what brands are actually sustainable.
1. Transparency in Sourcing and Production
Look for labels that are open about where they source their materials and how their products are made. The more details the better – if you can’t find supply chain details or info on who makes the clothes from a quick google search, odds are, that brand isn’t sustainable.
2. Sustainable Materials
When you’re shopping, be sure to spot the brands that use low-impact fabrics. Think natural – hunt for natural fibres like recycled cotton, or organic hemp and linen. Avoid fabrics like polyester and acrylic (these are literally made of plastic… eek). Blends of multiple fabrics also make a fabric harder to breakdown.
3. Eco-Friendly Manufacturing
It’s as simple as this; sustainable brands will use eco-friendly production methods. Managing waste and monitoring consumption by avoiding harsh chemicals or using water-efficient practices are key to understanding a brand’s sustainability.
4. Packaging and Shipping
For a brand to be truly sustainable, it even comes down to the packaging. See if the brand in-question uses recycled or biodegradable packaging, or if a lot of waste is involved. How much stuffing, tape or tissue paper is in your package? Carbon-neutral packing and shipping practices equals a sustainable brand.
5. Product Longevity and Quality
Sustainable brands operate with a ‘quality over quantity’ mindset. Buy items made to last. Ask yourself things like – Is the stitching good quality? Is the item lined? And finally, do I really need this item? Your wardrobe is a coveted place, only let the most chic, timeless and durable pieces in.
6. Circular Fashion Initiatives
You know how the saying goes – reduce, reuse, recycle. Lots of eco-friendly brands embrace the concept of circular fashion, offering resell opportunities, use upcycling, or offering repair services. Brands that want you to make the most of your garments are a big green flag.
7. Certifications and Labels
When in doubt, look for trusted certifications tell you the label follows sustainability practices. Certs to look out for include – B Corp, Fairtrade, Ethical Clothing Australia Accreditation, PETA and The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
8. Ethical Labor Practices
A sustainable fashion label will also prioritise the well-being of its workers. Ethical labor practices like safe working conditions and fair wages are the backbone of any brand that is actually sustainable. Brands who also take into account the wellbeing of animals (saying no to animal testing) are also good in our books.
9. Avoid Greenwashing
Be cautious of brands that make vague sustainability claims without evidence. Terms like “eco-friendly,” “green,” or “sustainable” should be backed up by tangible actions, certifications, and verifiable claims. If a brand doesn’t provide specific details about its environmental and ethical practices, it might be engaging in greenwashing.
10. Cheap clothes that come at a cost
We love a good bargain, but be careful of products that are too inexpensive. Whether it’s quality or sustainability on the line, a price tag that seems too good to be true, probably is. At the end of the day, all clothing is handmade, and someone will always pay the price for producing your fast fashion purchases, so shop in moderation.
