Sustainable Fashion For Dummies

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Ditch fast fashion and create a more sustainable wardrobe

Want to learn how to make more ethical fashion choices? Sustainable Fashion For Dummies will teach you how to pick up new habits that align with a more sustainable future. The rise of fast fashion in recent years has contributed to unsafe work environments, unfair wages, and toxic pollution. With sustainable fashion, you can have groovy clothing and accessories that are produced in an ecologically and socially responsible manner, using quality products and long-lasting materials. You don’t have to sacrifice your natural fashion sense―the sustainable fashion movement is responsible for some of the most exciting new trends. Pick up this easy-to-read handbook for practical tips and strategies on making more environmentally friendly fashion choices.

Get started on your sustainable fashion journeyDiscover inexpensive options for making more eco-friendly fashion choicesMake the most of what’s already in your closetMaster the art of thrift shopping

Let this Dummies guide be your guru as you start making socially and environmentally friendly fashion choices and becoming more thoughtful about what you purchase (or don’t purchase).

From the Publisher

1. When and why did you choose to make a change towards sustainable fashion choices?

When I first began fashion blogging on social media, I was focused on fast fashion and keeping up with the latest trends. However, as I became more aware of the negative impact of this type of consumerism on the environment and garment workers, I made a conscious decision to shift my focus toward sustainable fashion choices. I now strive to inspire others to make similar choices and create a space where fashion and ethics coexist. My goal is to show that fashion can be consumed responsibly and to lead by example on my sustainable fashion journey.

2. What are some basic facts about fast fashion that you wish consumers were more aware of?

Fast fashion is bad for the environment, bad for garment workers, and bad for consumers. The fashion industry has undergone significant changes over the last 20 years, with the rise of fast fashion. While it may seem like an affordable way of accessing trendy clothing, the fast fashion model has many negative consequences. Fast fashion relies on the overproduction of trendy clothes to encourage frequent purchases, but this has a detrimental impact on the environment, garment workers, and consumers. Workers are paid low wages and work in unsafe environments to meet the high demand for fast fashion. Additionally, factories producing these clothes contribute to carbon emissions and pollution. Many fast fashion items are also made from synthetic fabrics, and they end up in landfills, where they take hundreds of years to decompose, emitting greenhouse gases. Consumers may think they are getting a good deal because of cheaper prices, but the model relies on frequent shopping, and clothes don’t last long, sending consumers back to the store to buy more.

3. What is the biggest benefit you’ve experienced since making more sustainable fashion choices?

I am happier with the clothes I buy! Sustainable fashion offers a slower and more intentional approach compared to fast fashion. Brands that prioritize sustainability may have a smaller inventory, but the products are made with organic fabrics and are built to last. This provides a sense of comfort, knowing that my clothes are safe and made with care. Thrift shopping is also a great way to embrace sustainable fashion and save money. Prices at thrift stores are significantly lower than retail prices, and you can often find unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. By choosing sustainable fashion options, we can contribute to a healthier planet and support ethical practices in the fashion industry.

4. Many people find the prospect of moving away from fast fashion daunting. What advice would you give to help people overcome their hesitation?

Improving your sustainable fashion choices is easier than you may think. The first place to start is your closet, which won’t cost you anything extra. Many individuals associate sustainable fashion with buying clothes from sustainable brands, which may initially feel more expensive, especially if you are accustomed to fast fashion prices. However, the best place to start is with the clothes that you already have. Take a break from shopping and experiment with your current wardrobe to discover your personal style. If you struggle with FOMO and feel tempted by all the new items in stores, reducing those temptations can help. Unsubscribe and unfollow fast fashion and fast fashion influencers to minimize those urges.

5. What’s the best item you’ve ever found in a thrift store?

One of my most beloved thrifted pieces is a yellow dress that I have worn for two of my birthdays, a family photo shoot, and various other special occasions. It has become my go-to dress for any memorable day.

6. What are your favorite fabrics?

Linen has always been one of my go-to sustainable fabrics. It’s not a new innovative fabric, but rather a fabric that has been used for centuries, dating back to the ancient Egyptians. I love how sturdy and breathable it is, which makes for dreamy summer outfits. What’s more, linen grown in temperate climates doesn’t require irrigation, so it uses much less water than cotton. And let’s not forget, it’s also not harmful! Pima cotton is another favorite of mine, and it’s considered the highest quality cotton. The unique long fibers of Pima cotton make it perfect for creating the softest tees and underwear. Plus, it’s more resistant to pilling, so your Pima cotton clothes will last longer. It’s native to Peru and grown and harvested sustainably, which is a huge plus. Finally, I can’t forget about organic cotton and Tencel. Both are great choices for sustainable fashion, with Tencel being a newer fabric made from wood pulp from sustainable sources. It’s always exciting to see new sustainable fabrics being developed.

7. What is “greenwashing”?

Many companies today claim to be considerate of the environment, but not all truly live up to their sustainability claims. This practice, known as greenwashing, can be deceptive and unethical. One common example is when a fast fashion brand creates an eco-conscious line but fails to make sustainable practices a priority in all of its products. As a consumer, it’s important to be aware of greenwashing and to do your own research before making a purchase. Not only can greenwashing falsely influence your purchasing decisions, but it can also violate consumer protection laws. The US Securities Exchange is taking regulatory action against listed companies that make false sustainability claims. If something seems too good to be true, it might be a case of greenwashing.

About The Author

Paula Naggaga Mugabi is a New York City-based sustainable fashion blogger. Paula has graduate degrees in marketing and management and experience in banking and consulting, but has recently focused solely on fostering sustainability in fashion. Paula loves fashion and has spent a considerable amount of time learning the inner workings of every step in the fashion supply chain to ensure her work on sustainability in the fashion industry is properly anchored. She’s also studied the science around the disproportionate contribution of the fashion industry to climate change. Paula blogs about a wide range of topics around sustainable fashion and sustainable living, including vintage and thrift, and fast and slow fashion. Paula blogs under @mspaulapresents on Instagram and YouTube, and you can check out her website at consciouslyinstyle.

Publisher ‏ : ‎ For Dummies; 1st edition (April 25, 2023)
Language ‏ : ‎ English
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 272 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1119986222
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1119986225
Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.31 pounds
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.4 x 0.8 x 8.4 inches