sustainable fashion noun.
An approach to creating and consuming fashion that is environmentally and socially responsible.
Globally: What it means for the world?
- 92 million tons of textile waste is generated annually.¹
- 75% of clothing given to thrift stores is sold in bulk to countries like Ghana. Largely unsellable, it pollutes the waterways, and ruins local economies.²
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Most importantly, garment work at scale is largely unsafe, the wages largely unlivable for the people making the clothes.³
Locally: What it means for the community
Slowing down and shopping local strengthens local economies.⁴ By supporting small businesses and creating jobs, we reduce environmental impact by cutting down on transportation emissions and waste.
TLDR? Buying just one thing from a small business helps your neighbors and the environment.
Personally: What it means for you
Have you heard of the paradox of choice?⁵ It is the principle that too many options can mean less satisfaction and more anxiety. It bleeds into our daily lives; we have nothing to wear, every item brought into our homes creates a future task and makes us less happy overall.
We believe shopping slowly, locally, and mindfully is the antidote.
Sources:
- UN Environment Programme: Unsustainable fashion and textiles in focus for International Day of Zero Waste 2025
- The Guardian: Discarded clothes from UK brands dumped in protected Ghana wetlands
- U.S. Department of Labor: The Exploitation of Garment Workers: Threading the Needle on Fast Fashion
- Forbes: 7 Reasons to Shop Local & Support Small Business
- The Decision Lab: The Paradox of Choice
- The First Mile: 10 reasons to shop local and reduce waste
