You already know that I care a lot about how the way I live impacts the world around me. Over the course of the last year, I have started thinking and reading a lot about the clothing industry: The way the clothes I wear are produced and the people that have to work for it, what I can do to fight against exploitation of the workers.
The sad truth is: Nothing you can buy on the high street (not even expensive garments) is produced in a fair way. Not even the special Fair Clothing Lines most big chains have produced lately. There’s always someone in the production chain who gets taken advantage of. And the truly fair companies have something in common as well: They are expensive. At least way too expensive for a student like me. There’s still some little things we can do and today I want to share my ideas with you all!
Everybody can bring some garments that s/he doesn’t wear anymore and a yummy snack. You will definitely find some great new pieces, have tons of fun trying everything on and even clean out your closet a little bit. I did it once with some of my friends and it was so much fun!
These are my ‘strategies’ to shop fairly at the moment. Do you have any good tips as well? I would love to hear!
Graphic by the talented Danielle Marshall for Hanna’s Places.
Hanna you are just gorgeous and I love that you’ve written about this topic. I often think about how I can make my purchases more intentional, support smaller businesses and feel good knowing that all is fair in the process of making whatever it is I buy. I often don’t know where to start though, so I’m really glad that you’ve opened up a dialogue about this. I would love to know of any other fair companies you come across :)
Great tips! I think the best time someone told me is they look at the piece of clothing can yourself does this fit into my current wardrobe.
I love absolutely love this. I’m a huge advocate of green living and always being environmentally conscious of our actions and how they affect the earth. These are all great tips. I’ve recently been cleaning out my closet in an effort to only keep pieces I actually wear. I donate them, most certainly. Good to know of these companies though. Thanks for sharing!
These are really good tips! I haven’t heard of Everlane before, so thanks for pointing out a fair trade online store!
You bring up a very good point, Hanna. Most of the time, the clothes that were created fairly are also the most expensive. It’s a constant battle but I do like your options that you’ve listed here. Especially # 3 & 4– I only hope this helps shopping easier and less difficult over time. :) Shopping local (though sometimes it seems impossible & expensive) usually help as well!
Hanna’s Places is a green lifestyle magazine written by Hanna Ulatowski. It’s all about slowing down in a fast-paced society and finding ways to live a more sustainable, simple lifestyle.
February 6, 2014
These are great tips, Hanna! I need to go through my closet and purge – really get down to the basics. I am hoping to purchase a few things from Everlane in the future. Like you, I have heard nothing but rave reviews. I’ll definitely be putting all this tips into practice! Happy Thursday :)