When we hear the term sustainable clothing, we often think of sustainable shopping brands but there’s so much more to sustainable clothing than that. Even sustainable brands require resources and materials to make their products. 

With that being said, sustainability is versatile and can look different for everyone depending on a variety of different factors. So here are six ways to build a sustainable closet.

Thrifting

Thrifting has become one of, if not the most, popular way to find clothes and build closets–and for good reason too. Not only does it help promote the circular economy and try to help ensure that clothes cycle rather than end up in the trash, but it is also a cool way to find unique items of clothing. 

The chance of encountering one-of-a-kind pieces are always high at the thrift store which adds to its allure. But better than that, thrifting can give you the rewarding experience of giving clothes with a past history a new life.

Renting

Nowadays, trends come and go so fast that clothes no longer go “out of season” anymore–they go “out of month”--or even “out of week.” Fast fashion brands have been mass producing clothes at rate that has devastating consequences for our planet. If you’re a person who may have developed a habit of overconsuming fashion products or just loves to try out all of the hottest trends, consider renting clothes instead. 

Choosing to rent clothes is good for the environment because it can reduce water usage by 24%, energy use by 6%, and C02 emissions by 3%. However, it’s also perfect for people looking to save money as clothing rentals rent clothes for a fraction of their original price. And if it turns out that the piece isn’t for you, instead of ending up in a landfill, you can always send it back to the rental where it can find another home. 

Clothing Swaps

But if renting clothes isn’t something that resonates with you, consider attending a clothing swap or organize one of your own. If you’re not familiar with what a clothing swap is, it is essentially an event where people come together with clothes they no longer have use for and exchange with other people. Like thrifting and renting clothes, this both helps limit the demand for new products to be made as well as ensures that the clothes don’t end up in landfills.

We recommend searching for any local clothing swaps in your area, but if you are unable to find one, then perhaps organize one yourself. This is not only good for the environment, but it could also help foster a sense of community among the attendants.

Invest in Staple Pieces

However, we understand that depending on size, price, or accessibility, finding sustainable clothing can be a difficult feat. That’s why we always recommend buying staple pieces, whether you’re buying from a sustainable brand or a fast fashion one. These are timeless, classic pieces that will never go out of style due to their versatility in how they can be styled. Because clothes like this are so versatile, it will stay in your closet longer and limit how many clothes you need as well as hopefully reducing the number of clothes you buy.  

Take Care of Your Clothes

And finally, the most sustainable thing you can do for your closet is to simply take good care of your clothes and rewear them as much as possible. With good care, your clothes could last you a decade, if not longer which is ultimately super helpful for the environment.

So start building your sustainable closet today!

Get Rewarded for Spending with a Lower Carbon Footprint

Make a positive impact today. Click here to get your FutureCard Visa Card and start saving on eco-friendly purchases like buying secondhand clothing or renting for a special occasion!