The older I get, the more aware I become of everything in my life. That includes the clothing I wear.

 

I’m not someone who wears a lot of color. I keep it simple by wearing lots of black, gray, maroon, mauve, etc. I hop on a trend every now and then, but I don’t go out of my way for it.

 

The issue with trends is that brands that are luxurious or sustainable might cost more and no one wants to spend an arm and a leg on a piece that they feel like will go out of style. This is where fast fashion comes into play. 

 

Fast fashion brands are cheaper, which is what is affordable for most. SHEIN, Fashion Nova, Forever 21, even the “nicer” brands for the average person such as Anthropologie, Free People, and Urban Outfitters.

 

It’s understandable that sustainable clothing comes with a price tag, but here are some ways I’ve cut down my carbon footprint:

 

1. Thrifting: It’s hit or miss, which makes it fun. There are also websites like DePop where people sell their old stuff. I’ve found some of my favorite stuff while thrifting. Give it a good wash and you’re good to go. 

 

2. I don’t know if it’s considered more sustainable, but I try to not use real leather or fur. I feel like lots of brands cut back on using animal products, but not all of them. There are some pieces I own that are real leather and I’m not going to throw them away, but I won’t repurchase them.

 

3. Being more mindful: This means not spending a bunch of money all at once in a shopping haul. I won’t lie, at the start of quarantine I’d buy so many things I don’t need from Free People. Then I look at the reality of it and realize I don’t need those things.