Earth day is here and there are so many ways to reduce your carbon footprint and decrease your addition to landfills that extend beyond planting trees and recycling plastic. While those methods are excellent, take it a step further all the way down to your closet. Curating a stylish eco-friendly wardrobe is the most chic way to celebrate Earth day and look fabulous while doing so. Here’s our roundup of fashion-inspired eco-friendly ideas to celebrate earth day, every day of the year.
Greenwashing
Have you ever tried reading the ingredients on the back of your detergent bottle? I bet it was difficult to pronounce half of the harsh chemicals that you’re putting onto your clothes and essentially into your skin. Try opting for a safer, organic alternative that’s just as effective with none of the chemicals. Also, save a bit on your electric bill by air drying rather than using a clothes dryer. This can prevent things from shrinking and wearing down over time. Your skin and clothes will thank you.
Quality over Quantity
Just because it’s cheap that doesn’t mean it’s worth buying. Sure $5 pieces are great from time to time. They come in handy when you need a last minute item or that one piece to bring an entire outfit together. However, cheap clothing isn’t made to last. It’ll probably end up in a landfill before you get any wear out of it. Instead, invest in quality pieces made with good fabrics that are bound to last for years to come. Make sure the items can be mixed and matched so you can switch it up and wear them often to get your money’s worth.
Repurpose Old Pieces
Many of us get tired of things in our wardrobe and leave them to collect dust. Instead, repurpose your old pieces into new ones. Great jeans that we don’t love as much as we used to can be turned into shorts, or even better, create your own Do-It-Yourself ripped denim look. Have a sweatshirt you can’t part ways with, but know you won’t ever wear again as-is? Turn it into a crop top that happens to be totally “in” right now. Even old earrings or rings can be turned into necklaces or some other cool, funky piece of jewelry. Get creative!
All Faux Everything
Make a statement by standing up for animals. Take a stand against items that were created at the at the expense of animals and go for the faux alternative instead. Faux fur and faux leather are just as fashionable as their authentic counterparts at just a fraction of the price! Not only are you saving a life, but you’re essentially saving tons of cash in the long run. More than enough cash to go score that cute cruelty free lipstick you were eyeing.
Shop Vintage
Vintage is a way of life. The savviest of shoppers can browse a thrift store and score an affordable limited edition Chanel bags older than our grandparents, while others will find moth eaten prom dresses straight out of the 80’s. Either way, buying vintage reduces your global footprint and helps the environment.
How are you going green for Earth Day? Hit us up on social media @thisisonx and tune in next week for another round up, on The StyleList. Hosted by Kinya Claiborne, STYLE & SOCIETY Magazine.
By Monique Wise
Wardrobe By: Tobi (Keelie Black Maxi Skirt Set)
