Earth Day Message
As this Earth Day comes to an end, our Instagram feeds are filled with beautiful nature photos, sustainability is at the forefront of our thoughts, and we're all feeling a little greener. While I love Earth Day, its impact on the actual environment is fleeting. Tomorrow, when sustainability is no longer "trending," many people will go back to their old habits and very little will change. This is especially true in the fashion industry, which is one of the leading sources of pollution. However, this doesn't have to be the case. We as consumers have the power to change the fashion industry. Admittedly, there is a degree of financial privilege involved with being a sustainable consumer. However, from my own experience as a college-aged fashion-lover, I know that there are ways to be sustainable and fashionable on a budget! Here are 5 quick tips:
1. STOP SHOPPING FAST FASHION: I know it's hard. I've been there. I used to live on Forever21, H&M, and Zara. However, fast fashion rips off hard-working designers, pollutes our waterways, and exploits women. No trend is worth that.
2. IF YOU DO SHOP FAST FASHION, MAKE IT LAST: I understand that not everyone has the financial means to shop designer or eco-friendly. And thats ok! However, if you're going to buy something from a fast-fashion store, make that you will wear it forever. Use a cold wash and air dry your clothing to make it last. I have Zara shirts from 2012 that I still wear all the time.
3. UPCYCLE: Before you throw out a piece of clothing that's no longer trendy, turn it into something else! There are thousands of tutorials online. I am always cutting and sewing my tops into crop tops, jeans into cut off shorts etc etc! You'll have a one-of-a-kind piece and It's fun to do.
4. THRIFTSHOPPING: This is one of the most obvious tips I have. Thrifting is fun and you can find amazing deals. I will be making a video soon about my favorite places to thrift in NYC. Also check out Depop, Poshmark, and Ebay for amazing vintage finds.
5. RENT: I am not just saying this because I am a @RTRoncampus rep. Renting is a great alternative to fast fashion because you can experience trends without having to commit to them! Use their student discount and share a subscription with a friend to make it more budget-friendly.
As someone with (minor) influence, I want to do my part to evoke as much change I can. Stay tuned for more sustainability content and in the meantime check out Remake our World for more!
Until next time xx
Courtney
