So, you are ready to give your wardrobe a sustainable makeover but would like to keep your savings account positive. Is that even possible? Absolutely! With a little creativity and some smart shopping tips, you can start building a dream sustainable closet that won’t have your wallet crying for help.
Here’s how to make the switch and rock a wardrobe that’s kind to our planet, your personal style and wallet!
1. Get to know yourself and your lifestyle
Fast fashion, with its low prices and changing trends, often tempts us into impulse buys instead of thoughtful choices. The result? Packed closets and the all-too-familiar “I have nothing to wear” dilemma. So, the first step to a sustainable wardrobe is understanding your personal style and lifestyle. After all, if you’re a yoga teacher, chances are you’re not reaching for formal gowns every day! To make this first step easier, try answering these questions:
- Do I need work-specific clothes? If so, which kind?
- Do I live in the city or the countryside?
- Do I travel often?
- Do I have kids or pets?
Consider all your lifestyle needs so that you don’t miss anything.
2. Start with what you already own
Sure, there are many brands offering sustainable fashion, but guess what? The most sustainable items are the ones you already own. Before shopping for new sustainable pieces (we’ll get there, promise!), head to your wardrobe, and do a quick inventory. Sort your clothes into three piles:
- Keep: This pile is for your go-to staples and everyday favorites. The clothes you actually wear. If it’s something you reach for regularly, then it deserves to stay.
- Repair: This pile should include those items you would like to keep, but just need some repairs or alterations to make them wearable again. Missing a button or loose hem? Pop these into the “repair” pile.
- Donate/sell: Now it is time to be honest with yourself: when was the last time you wore that dress? If you haven’t worn something in over a year, consider why. If it doesn’t fit or isn’t your style, it’s time to let it go.
Now that you have a better picture of what you already have, identify gaps in your wardrobe. Maybe you’re short on basics like a classic white t-shirt. Prioritize these in your future shopping list, it’ll help you stay focused and avoid impulse buys.
3. Learn how to create a capsule wardrobe
Capsule wardrobes are a collection of basic, high-quality and interchangeable pieces of clothing that can form a complete closet by themselves. This approach not only simplifies your wardrobe but also makes it easier to focus on quality over quantity. The idea is to invest in versatile, high-quality pieces that suit different occasions rather than constantly buying cheap, trendy items.
Start small by selecting a few basics, like a pair of jeans, a few solid tops, a jacket, and comfortable shoes, that you can combine in various ways. Since now you know style, what you have and what you are missing, gradually expand your capsule wardrobe by adding those missing pieces as you can afford them.
4. Set a clothing budget and stick to it
This step is short and sweet but oh-so-important! Setting a budget helps you stay on track and encourages more mindful shopping. Start by deciding how much you can realistically spend on clothes each month or season. Use your budget to prioritize items you truly need and absolutely love; and we mean really love. If you don’t really love it when you buy it, chances are it’ll just end up collecting dust and adding clutter to your wardrobe, which is the opposite of sustainable. Keep your purchases intentional, and your closet (and wallet) will thank you!
5. Embrace thrifting and second-hand shopping
Shopping for second-hand clothing is one of the most budget-friendly ways to build a sustainable closet. Whether you’re thrifting, browsing vintage shops, or using online platforms like Vinted, Vestiaire Collective, Poshmark, or ThredUp, you can give new life to pre-loved items without breaking the bank. Plus, second-hand stores often carry unique pieces that help you express your personal style in ways fast fashion can’t match.
But there’s always a catch with second-hand shopping, especially online. Photos can be deceiving, and sometimes what you see isn’t exactly what you get. Take your time to examine the listings closely. If you’re unsure about the size, check the website of the brand of the item you are going to buy for a size guide. If that’s not an option, just ask the seller for exact measurements. Also, look for high-quality materials like wool, cotton, or linen, as they tend to be more durable. And finally, whenever possible, inspect items for any signs of wear and tear before purchasing to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
6. Shop slow fashion brands during sales
When shopping for new sustainable pieces keep an eye on sales, clearance events, and seasonal discounts to purchase high-quality, sustainable clothing at lower prices. Sustainable brands prioritize quality (which can make them seem pricey at first), but there are ways to score affordable deals. Subscribing to newsletters from your favorite brands can help you stay informed about upcoming sales and special promotions.
7. Learn basic sewing skills for repairs and upcycling
If you are a DIY person, then this step is for you. Sometimes, clothing may only need minor repairs, like fixing a loose button, replacing a zipper, or hemming a skirt. Learning basic sewing skills can extend the life of your clothes that are on the “Repair” pile and save money on replacements. You can also upcycle old garments to create something new; like turning an old dress into a top or transforming a pair of jeans into shorts.
There are plenty of online tutorials and courses available that teach basic sewing skills, many of which are free. And if you’re looking for inspiration, follow influencers who specialize in upcycling, like @convertedcloset; Kate McGuire works magic on preloved items, showing how a little creativity can breathe new life into forgotten clothes.
8. Opt for quality over quantity
The holy grail of a sustainable wardrobe is quality. While it may be tempting to buy multiple budget-friendly pieces, focusing on quality will pay off in the long run. High-quality clothing lasts longer and withstands wear and tear better than cheaply made garments.
Try a cost-per-wear approach and look for pieces with strong stitching, durable fabrics, and classic designs that won’t go out of style. A more expensive piece that you wear frequently may actually be a better value than a cheaper item that sits unworn in your closet. If you want to learn more about this, check out @curatedbyannaaronova, where fashion consultant Anna Aaronova shares tips on selecting durable, high-quality pieces that are built to last.
9. Sell or donate what you don’t need
Once you’ve transitioned to a more sustainable wardrobe, declutter your closet by selling or donating clothes you no longer need. You can use the same platforms mentioned earlier, like Vinted or ThredUp, to sell your items and earn a little extra cash to reinvest in sustainable fashion. Donating to local charities is another great option. Just remember, if you’re donating, make sure the clothes are in good condition. No one wants to wear something that’s ripped or stained!
10. Educate yourself and detox your socials
Knowledge is a powerful tool in the transition to sustainable fashion. The more you learn about the impact of fast fashion and the benefits of sustainable alternatives, the easier it will be to make informed choices. Share what you learn with friends, family, and your community to help spread awareness about the importance of sustainable fashion.
Stay inspired by following sustainable fashion influencers, reading blogs (like this one!), and joining online communities that focus on sustainable living. Start unfollowing influencers who post “hauls” from fast fashion brands. One influencer we love is @tessmontgomery; Tess Montgomery is an advocate of slow fashion who’s committed to the #OneItemAMonth challenge. Her content is full of practical tips and stylish inspiration for building a more mindful wardrobe.
Final thoughts
Transitioning to a sustainable closet on a budget may seem challenging at first, but with a thoughtful approach, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. By making conscious choices and focusing on long-term value, you can build a wardrobe that not only looks great but also aligns with your values.
And remember, sustainable fashion is not just a trend, it’s a lifestyle shift that benefits both you and the planet.
