Kesten Taylor

How to Shop Sustainably and Support Ethical Fashion Brands in 2023

Are you interested in shopping sustainably and supporting ethical fashion brands in 2023? As the fashion industry continues to evolve, more and more consumers are becoming aware of the negative impact it has on the environment and the people involved in the production process. If you’re ready to make a change and shop in a more conscious way, then this post is for you. In this guide, we’ll provide tips and insights on how to shop sustainably and support ethical fashion brands in 2023. 

  1. Do Your Research 

The first step in shopping sustainably is to do your research. Look for brands that are committed to sustainability and ethical practices. Read their websites and social media pages to learn more about their mission and values. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, GOTS, and B Corp to ensure that the brand meets certain ethical and environmental standards. 

  1. Invest in Quality Pieces 

One of the most sustainable things you can do when it comes to fashion is to invest in quality pieces that will last a long time. Avoid fast fashion, which is characterized by cheap, disposable clothing that is designed to be worn for only a short period of time. Instead, look for well-made, timeless pieces that can be worn season after season. 

  1. Choose Natural and Sustainable Fabrics 

Another way to shop sustainably is to choose natural and sustainable fabrics. Look for materials like organic cotton, linen, hemp, and Tencel, which are all renewable and biodegradable. Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic, which are made from non-renewable resources and can take hundreds of years to decompose. 

  1. Support Local and Independent Brands 

Supporting local and independent brands is another way to shop sustainably. These brands often have smaller carbon footprints and are more likely to use sustainable and ethical practices in their production processes. Plus, you’ll be supporting small businesses and the local economy. 

  1. Take Care of Your Clothes 

Finally, taking care of your clothes is an essential part of sustainable fashion. Follow the care instructions on the label and wash your clothes in cold water, which uses less energy than hot water. Air dry your clothes instead of using the dryer, which can save energy and reduce your carbon footprint. And, if your clothes need repairs, consider fixing them instead of throwing them away. 

  • The first step in shopping sustainably is to do your research. Look for brands that are committed to sustainability and ethical practices. Read their websites and social media pages to learn more about their mission and values. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, GOTS, and B Corp to ensure that the brand meets certain ethical and environmental standards. 
  • One of the most sustainable things you can do when it comes to fashion is to invest in quality pieces that will last a long time. Avoid fast fashion, which is characterized by cheap, disposable clothing that is designed to be worn for only a short period of time. Instead, look for well-made, timeless pieces that can be worn season after season. 
  • Choosing natural and sustainable fabrics is another way to shop sustainably. Look for materials like organic cotton, linen, hemp, and Tencel, which are all renewable and biodegradable. Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic, which are made from non-renewable resources and can take hundreds of years to decompose. 
  • Supporting local and independent brands is another way to shop sustainably. These brands often have smaller carbon footprints and are more likely to use sustainable and ethical practices in their production processes. Plus, you’ll be supporting small businesses and the local economy. 
  • Taking care of your clothes is an essential part of sustainable fashion. Follow the care instructions on the label and wash your clothes in cold water, which uses less energy than hot water. Air dry your clothes instead of using the dryer, which can save energy and reduce your carbon footprint. And, if your clothes need repairs, consider fixing them instead of throwing them away. 

As someone who has been trying to live a more sustainable lifestyle, shopping sustainably and supporting ethical fashion brands has become a top priority for me. It wasn’t easy at first, as the fashion industry is filled with fast fashion and cheap clothing options, but I soon discovered that there are many brands out there that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. 

One of my favorite ways to shop sustainably is to look for local and independent brands. Not only do these brands have a smaller carbon footprint, but they also tend to use more sustainable and ethical practices in their production processes. I’ve found that by supporting these brands, I’m not only helping the environment, but I’m also supporting small businesses and the local economy. 

Another way I try to shop sustainably is by investing in quality pieces that will last a long time. I’ve found that investing in well-made, timeless pieces not only reduces my carbon footprint, but it also saves me money in the long run. By avoiding fast fashion and opting for high-quality pieces, I’m able to create a wardrobe that I truly love and that will last for years to come. 

One of my favorite ways is getting old clothes from family members. As vintage clothing has grown over the years, I fell in love with thrifting and found new ways to use old clothing. From making my own pieces to getting old clothes from my dad, it has given not only the clothing a new purpose and meaning but I have a new connection with that piece since it was something my dad wore when he was younger. Some of my coolest pieces came from my dad’s closet. Of course, don’t just go steal your parents or loved one’s clothing but ask If they have anything that they don’t want any more it’s a great opportunity to step up your wardrobe! 

In conclusion, shopping sustainably and supporting ethical fashion brands is an important step towards creating a more sustainable future. By doing your research, investing in quality pieces, choosing natural and sustainable fabrics, supporting local and independent brands, and taking care of your clothes, you can make a difference in the fashion industry and help protect our planet. Let’s all work together to create a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry in 2023 and beyond. Want to talk fashion? Shoot me a DM on Instagram! (@kestentaylor)