How to Create a Conscious Closet
Graphic contributed by Shannon Lucky
Why it’s important and where to go to shop sustainably.
Today, the political landscape and global movements have an incredibly strong impact on the fashion industry. Between the climate crisis and sustainable product life cycles coming into focus, it is vital that we are aware of where we are getting our products and how we can make an impact on our planet.
More and more brands are getting on board with this revolution by being more open about their production process and creating more options for their consumers.“With increased transparency, we can make the connection between corporate social responsibility policies and their impact on the ground,” said Jenny Holdcroft, Assistant General Secretary to the Industrial Global Union. However, consumers and retailers are not the only people listening and evoking change. Societal leaders and celebrities are igniting this movement with full throttle. Celebs, like Emma Watson, are setting the perfect example.
““With increased transparency, we can make the connection between corporate social responsibility policies and their impact on the ground.””
Amy De Klerk, writer for Harper’s Bazaar, said; “When it comes to A-list fashion, nobody in the spotlight promotes sustainability more than Emma Watson. From wearing a Calvin Klein dress made completely of recycled plastic bottles to creating an entire Instagram account devoted to the eco-friendly brands she wore on her Beauty and the Beast press tour, Watson knows a thing or two about how to dress in a sustainable manner.”
Image via Harper’s Bazaar
With the involvement of major companies, celebrity endorsements, and social media coverage the average shopper is more aware than ever.
As a college student, sustainability is most likely one of the last things on your mind. Buying a cute new outfit and getting a bomb Insta pic is probably more of a priority to you at this point in time, but who said you can’t care about both? Here are some sites that offer the perfect opportunity to create more of a “conscious closet,” while still looking your best.
Image via giphy
1. Rent the Runway
This online shopping platform is becoming a game changer for women everywhere and a leader amongst other clothing rental sources. Rent-the-Runway, founded in 2009, is an online service that provides designer dress and accessory rentals, and growing into more everyday wear. Although a clothing rental service is not directly proportional to buying from a thrift store, it allows their consumers the ability to reduce their ecological footprint.
Most of you probably are already aware of Rent-the-Runway because they have such a large presence on college campuses. Gina Madalonni, a student here at Auburn and a Rent-the-Runway representative, shared with me some of her thoughts on how to be a more sustainable-friendly shopper; “So many companies post their sustainability efforts on their website or even embedded in the individual product descriptions. I would recommend educating yourself on the supply chain operations and raw materials a company is using to produce their finished goods.”
““I would recommend educating yourself on the supply chain operations and raw materials a company is using to produce their finished goods.””
Our Auburn Campus Reps are a great resource to talk to if you have more questions about Rent the Runway, sustainable fashion, and getting involved.
Images via @paige_ruth and @kruzalicious
2. Nuuly
Major fashion companies like URBN (which includes Urban Outfitters, Free People, and Anthropologie) are also entering the clothing rental space through their new company, Nuuly. The company is described as a “new way to experience clothes,” as a subscription-based service that allows you to select six items every month for $88.
Although a new addition to the URBN family, Nuuly will start to open up the eyes of their millions of shoppers. Hopefully, this type of an impact can help lead a new wave of options from major retailers. A company like Nuuly was needed in the market today because it gives their customer the option of wearing some of their favorite brands while still being a conscious consumer. Reduce, reuse, recycle, or re-wear?
Image via giphy
3. Poshmark
Founded in 2011, Poshmark is a social commerce marketplace where people in the United States can buy and sell new or used clothing, shoes, and accessories. Poshmark has achieved success providing a solid shopping experience for consumers via through their app, but it is also a great addition to the sustainable fashion movement. Not only can you buy second-hand clothes, but you can sell as well. This helps clean out your closet and make a contribution towards the sustainable fashion effort!
4. Thredup
Thredup is the largest online thrift store available. Thrift store clothing is previously owned garments and is a great way to make an individual impact. Secondhand clothing is a great option for many people as it offers lower prices and unique finds that reduce the amount of fabric waste and lengthen the product’s life cycle. The price of clothing can be a struggle, and us college kids have to stick together so we can look fabulous and still afford to eat.
If you want to learn more about this sustainable revolution occurring in the fashion industry, follow @fash_rev on Instagram. This Non-Governmental Organization is a leader amongst the global movement and founder of trending important questions like #WhoMadeMyClothes?
There are many more companies and brands who are making efforts to be more sustainable that were not mentioned in this article. However, there is still a long way to go. If you want to contribute, share this article on social media to help create more conscious retailers and consumers alike.
Image via @fashion_rev
