A fair wardrobe in 5 steps

When the seasons are changing, I always feel the need to declutter my closet. The sun is already popping out, and that means it will soon be time for a spring-cleaning session. This spring-cleaning session might be a great time to do things a little differently, change your rituals and your long-standing pattern of behaviour. This spring it will be the start to a new wardrobe, a fair one we hope.

Where to start

A lot of people I speak to are quite hesitant; they don’t know where to start when it comes to fair fashion, or how to continue when they made a first step. Please note that you don’t have to do all at once. Make some changes step by step is fast enough. These 5 steps will help you and will be the guide you need this spring.

1. Step one to a fair wardrobe

The first step to a fair wardrobe is to find out why you want to create a fair wardrobe, and believe me, there are more than enough reasons to change your fashion buying behaviour. Did you know the fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world? This becomes clear when you think about how much water is needed to create an outfit. Just 10000 Litre for a jeans and a t-shirt. The fashion industry is responsible for 10% of the CO2 emissions. A lot more than the aircraft industry with 2,5%. Who would’ve thought that?
When you know why you want to change the way you consume, it will be easier to step by any Fast Fashion chain. Or think twice before you buy.

Step 2; Knowing what you need

Knowing what you still need to complete your wardrobe starts with knowing what you already have. It is time to put on some good music, make yourself a cup of tea and clean out your closet. Once you have done this, you must find a good way to say goodbye to the items you don’t want anymore. Maybe you can swap something with your friends, fix it or remake it into something else.

Step 3; Treat your garments right 

Step three is all about treating your garments right. The better you treat them, the longer they live, the happier you are, and the happier the environment is. Some easy tips: wash as less as possible with an eco-friendly detergent on a low temperature and put on a short program. Air-dry your garments and only iron when needed. Please also take a look at the washing instructions, they put them in your clothing for a reason.

Step 4; Start building 

Then it is finally time to start building. You now know the items you have in your closet, but it is equally important to monitor your style. To see what works for you and what you’re wearing often. Basics are also important to a fair wardrobe, these long-lasting pieces are a perfect foundation and easy to start off with.

Step 5; Shop ethically

The last step might be the most important one; shopping ethically! It’s time to think why before you buy. Buying more sustainably doesn’t mean shopping becomes dull actually it will trigger you. You will find new ethical brands that your friends don’t know anything about. You can find some rare vintage finds. Or you might even be open to new ways of shopping, clothing on loan for instance. Just remember, purchase with purpose, do you really need it and will you wear it often or is it just a one-timer.

I’m convinced that these 5 steps will help you further this spring! What we would like to know from you is how you become more conscious with your purchases? Let us know in a comment below, as we would love to learn from this.

Meet Stephanie. An optimistic lady on a conscious mission! She started Let’s talk slow a couple of years ago an we’re happy she shares her conscious tips also with us. Follow her on instagram.