There are a lot of myths surrounding sustainable fashion which sometimes stop shoppers taking positive steps towards sustainable purchases. Here are ten commonly heard sustainable clothing myths and the truth about them.
Sustainable clothing myths
You need to spend more to be sustainable
Of course some sustainable clothing brands are quite expensive. After all, the fabric is ethically sourced and the workers are fairly paid. But like with any purchase you would be buying something because you absolutely love it and see yourself using it for a very long time. However, some of the most sustainable options are a lot more reasonably priced. For example you can buy second hand from reselling sites or charity shops. There are also vintage stores or you can swap clothing with friends. Renting clothing is becoming increasingly more popular too.
To reduce your footprint you should buy from sustainable brands
The most sustainable option is to buy less. Shop your existing wardrobe and have items mended or tailored. If you do need to buy something then try shopping pre-owned.
The more expensive the garment, the less likely workers have been exploited
Returned clothes are resold
Most clothes can be recycled
There’s no point repairing cheap clothes
Clearing out your wardrobe in favour of a capsule wardrobe is sustainable
I understand the logic behind this. You feel like by getting rid of things you will be living a more minimal lifestyle. The most sustainable wardrobe is the wardrobe you continue to wear. This is rather than throwing everything away and replacing it with items from sustainable brands. This still creates demand. A lot of what you donate isn’t actually bought by someone else, it just ends up as waste. Capsule wardrobes are designed to be made up of timeless, high quality items that last. They should not be incessantly overhauled.
Companies promoting sustainability are sustainable
The label tells you everything about your clothes
You don’t have the power to make a difference
I feel like this myth applies to a lot of things and it is probably the most common excuse I hear from people for why they do or don’t do something. As consumers we should be voting with our wallets. If you don’t like how a brand does something then let them know and don’t shop there. I realise in some cases that is easier said than done. And in some situations that brand may be your only option. If you do need to keep shopping with a certain brand then take the time to ask them questions about their practices, where their fabrics come from and who made their clothes. If we keep bringing up these topics with companies they will come to realise how important these issues are for consumers.
LOVING THIS POST! such a great topic to talk about
shy – https://www.shyyshianne.com/