Sustainable fashion here we come

Another year is upon us.

A new leaf, a fresh start. It's time for some resolutions.

Let's make this year count.

2022 has provided us with its fair share of challenges, tragedies and battles. However, instead of focusing on the past, we are looking forward. We have decided to create our own Retrospecced Resolutions and make 2023 the year of sustainable fashion.

We've got a way to go

Whilst fashion can be cool, it is an industry filled with controversy. In fact, 'in terms of pollution, second only to the oil industry. Starting from raw material extraction to manufacture to distribution and disposal.' On top of its direct impact on the environment, the fashion sector also possesses some of the poorest working conditions imaginable, and some unthinkable statistics regarding child labour.

It is easy to turn a blind eye and to continue to shop until you drop but something needs to change. We here at Retreospecced believe that 2023 is the time to take action, make a difference and start calling ourselves out - as well as the people around us.

It starts now

Let's kick 2023 off with some new fashion habits. Have a look below at our sustainable shopping tips...

5 SUSTAINABLE FASHION HABITS FOR 2023

Shop local.

Global economy is a huge part of the age we are in and it is arguably the reason behind much of the chaos we are witnessing today. Instead of buying products from mysterious companies that could be anywhere in the world, we want to champion the businesses around us.

By shopping locally (and in person!) we instantly reduce emissions from shipping, we witness the origins of a product, we potentially meet sellers and build connections, and we contribute to the local economy. Whilst not all local businesses may label themselves as 'sustainable', it is incredibly likely that by choosing a local company over an online, overseas one, you are making the more sustainable choice.

Promote the pre-loved.

Second hand fashion is becoming more and more conventional. It is so simple, so easy and so sustainable. Reduce waste, give your unwanted items to others and - in the case of charity shops or social enterprises like ours - give to charity too. It is a no brainer!

Whether it's Great Aunt Gertrude's woollen jumper or a funky pair of flares you found on depop, spread the word about pre-loved fashion. Tell your friends, colleagues and loved ones about the amazing second hand finds you treasure, and together let's make pre-loved the norm.

Think long-term.

It is so easy to get caught up in the everyday. Modern life is full of trends, phases and fads; hence fast fashion has thrived. However, instead of buying clothing with a specific event or party in mind, we need to think about the longevity of every purchase we make. Let's think about how pieces can transition from season to season, and consider the different ways we can style an item of clothing to get as many wears out of it as possible.

When holding a piece of clothing or an accessory in your hands, imagine your life in five years time and contemplate whether there will be space for it in your life. Shop for items that last and do not be afraid of a higher price tag! More expensive tends to mean better quality and by extension more life.

Buy one dress for 5 years rather 5 dresses in one year.

Borrow, don't buy.

Another growing fashion practice is the art of renting. Instead of being lumbered with pieces for years on end and filling up wardrobes, attics and storage boxes under the bed, you can borrow clothes. The beauty of renting is that you can wear a piece, have an amazing time in it and then give it back - so that someone else can do the same.

Perfect for the keen fashionistas amongst you who are desperate to get your hands on the latest trends and styles, renting is a sustainable practice that will only grow in popularity.

Origins and ethics.

There is a common tendency to ignore the materials and origins of what we consume in the modern era. We eat food without looking at the ingredients, and we own homes and vehicles subject to extensive lists of complex supplies and huge work forces. We need to start considering the processes that make the things we own - especially when it comes to fashion.

This is where looking at labels and working out where the piece was made - and what it is made of - comes in. Take an in-depth interest in your wardrobe and challenge yourself to sport organic cotton or recycled and 'saved-from-landfill' materials. Being proud of the clothes you wear and where they come from is a really good feeling.

This is just the beginning

Thanks for checking out our sustainable shopping ideas. By no means are we suggesting that they will make a big difference on their own, but if we make a conscious effort to carry this list out - and encourage others to do so too - we may be on our way to a more ethical fashion industry.

2023 is the year for change! Let's make it happen.