Solutions to help you buy better
In previous blogs we have discussed the issues with fast fashion, but what about the solutions? In this article we will discuss various options you can consider to not only help you make a better informed decision, but also save you money in the long term.
Personal Style Vs fashion trends
Fast fashion starts with the idea that more is always best. But this is a false economy. Firstly, many new fashion trends don’t suit most of the population. Just because it looks good on a certain celebrity does not mean it will suit you.What matters is a personal style, which is unique to each person. Focus on what suits your shape, size, and lifestyle. Build a wardrobe around this. Secondly, fashion tends to be driven by younger members of society. Some of the trends are inappropriate for the more mature. Again rather than following, be yourself and wear what suits you with consideration to those that have made the clothes and the world around you.
Buy classic designs
The worst part of fashion trends is that what is in one season can be dead in the next. Demand on supply chains and energy are relentless. This ever changing canvas deliberately forces people to update their wardrobes and fuels the fast fashion industry. Once you have identified your style, build a wardrobe around classic pieces. Ladies and men’s preppy clothes are a good example of a classic style. The biggest benefit of classic items of clothing is their timeless appeal. They never age and will look as good in your wardrobe today as they will in ten years. Consider iconic clothing items like the double-breasted trench coat and field jacket. Also, look for well-tailored clothing, a good marker for a classic item. Such examples include mens tailored shirts, ladies’ blouses, and classic chinos. Well made versatile garments that are made to last and buck the fast fashion trend. You need to love your garments so choose wisely.
Invest in quality pieces
Classic and quality are the two best decisions when investing in clothing. Classic ensures the clothing will always look good, while quality ensures the clothing will last wash after wash.
However it is important to recognise that classic and quality don’t always go together. Secondly, please don’t assume that a designer brand means that the clothing is either high quality or they are not exploiting cheap labour. Many big brands sell on their brand name rather than quality or ethics.
When buying clothing, always check the wash label as by law this will reveal two things:
1. The fabric composition should ideally be 100% cotton, wool, or linen. Some modern fabrics have a small amount of elastane. This is now very common for men’s trousers and ladies’ blouses as they help improve fit and daily wear ability. Further, elastane is normally only 3% of the cloth.
2. Where the item is made. If made in the UK or Europe, that is a good signal that those employed to make the clothing were paid a fair wage, but it is by no means a certainty. It should raise a question if it is in the far east.
In addition to checking the wash label, look at the overall manufacturing and fabric of the item:
Is the garment made with big stitching or small stitching?
Is the fabric soft to the touch?
Does the jacket have a lining?
Are there no overlocked seams? (this is very common among low-quality clothing)
You have found a good investment if you answer yes to the above. Further, a well-made item of clothing will last a lifetime and look much better. People can usually tell right away if something is well made.
Brand Credentials
When you are considering buying clothing checkout the company you are buying from. Are they transparent? Are they genuinely moving towards sustainability or are they in fact just greenwashing to make them appear concerned about the impact of what they are selling? As more genuine sustainable brands emerge the choice will become easier.
Conclusion
As the sustainability argument advances more brands are appearing that are advancing the cause. As the process will be gradual and stepped due to its overall complexity along the way it pays to check out who you are buying from. Alongside this you can help by considerate smart buying of garments that are not fashion driven, are made from natural fibres sources ethically and wear your clothes many times. With proper planning and size observance you will end up with a wardrobe that will serve you well for many years. It may take a little more time to make these considerations but it is the right thing to do if you care about the planet and stopping exploitation
